Sharjah is pioneering a new era of digitization with its artificial intelligence (AI) powered trade licensing platform. Let’s take a closer look at this innovative system and what it means for entrepreneurs.
The Traditional Licensing Process
In the past, applying for a commercial permit in Sharjah involved a lengthy manual procedure. First, you needed to collect various documents like your lease agreement and trade name validity proof. Then multiple trips were required to different government departments to submit these papers.
Each step meant waiting in long queues to reach the front desk. Officials would manually review your documents and ask additional questions. This process could stretch on for weeks until final approval. It was frustrating and slowed business launches.
Why Reform Was Needed
The traditional approach created several hurdles for new ventures. Busy entrepreneurs had to take time off work for frequent office visits. Carrying stacks of papers and arranging multiple sign-offs was cumbersome too.
Long processing times introduced delays into business planning. Overall, the complex paperwork deterred some from even starting up in Sharjah. The emirate realized it was time for a digital revolution to streamline licensing.
Explaining the AI-Based System
Now applicants can access the online portal anytime on their devices. First, only a passport scan is needed for ID verification. An interactive AI chatbot then guides users through requirements in clear language.
It explains legal structures, activity restrictions and more. Once all queries are clear, payment is made securely online. Incredibly, licenses issue instantly through automated electronic approvals – within just three minutes!
Key Benefits of Going Digital
By eliminating the need for physical desk visits and documents, the new system offers huge advantages. 24/7 global access opens licensing to all entrepreneurs. The paperless green process is eco-friendly too.
Real-time guidance assists registrations easily from anywhere. Swift approvals help founders incorporate faster versus waiting weeks previously. Overall, it has made business set-up remarkably simple and quick.
Expanding Access Emirate-Wide
Presently licences are issued within Sharjah’s Publishing City Free Zone. Yet ambitions are high to scale this across other zones and eventually the whole emirate.
The AI platform aims to serve investors starting companies onshore too. Once fully implemented, any business can obtain electronic permits with zero hassle in just 180 seconds! Such advanced technologies cement Sharjah’s reputation as the region’s most startup-friendly ecosystem.
Conclusion
In summary, Sharjah’s innovative trade licensing platform exemplifies how governments worldwide can streamline services through emerging tech. By empowering entrepreneurs digitally, it has strengthened competitive advantage on the global business stage. New ventures would be wise to consider the emirate and benefit from its fast-track, fuss-free system made possible by groundbreaking AI solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
A. Presently the Publisher Free Zone but future expansion aims for wider sector coverage.
A. At launch, only English but additional languages may be added based on demand.
A. Some applications undergo compliance checking while the AI processes most autonomously.
A. Payment finalizes applications instantly. Licenses issue within three minutes of submission through automated electronic approvals.
