With its vibrant expatriate community and increasing number of working parents, Sharjah presents a promising opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to establish a daycare centre. However, embarking on this journey requires careful planning, thorough understanding of local regulations, and a passion for child development.
In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps to start a daycare in Sharjah. From creating a business plan and finding a location, to the many benefits of running a daycare, as well as the cost and the documents required to get you started.
So let’s get started.
How to start a daycare in Sharjah: Step-by-step
Let’s look at five key steps to start your daycare in Sharjah.
- Your qualifications: Before you even get started, ensure you have the relevant documents and certifications that would enable you to legally start a daycare where you would be taking care of children.
- Create a business plan: Starting with a comprehensive business plan is crucial to lay the foundation for your daycare in Sharjah. Your business plan should include an executive summary that provides an overview of your daycare’s vision, mission, and objectives. Conduct thorough market analysis to understand the demand for daycare services in Sharjah, identify your target market, and evaluate your competitors. A well-structured business plan not only guides your operations but is also essential when seeking funding or investors and as a document to submit to the relevant government authorities.
- Choose a name: Selecting a unique and compliant name for your daycare is an important step. The name should be memorable, easy to pronounce, and reflective of the services you offer. Ensure the name adheres to the local naming conventions and does not conflict with existing business names in Sharjah. Check the availability of the name through the relevant government portals and register it to secure your brand identity.
- Legal structure: If you want to start a daycare in Sharjah, you need to decide on its legal structure as this affects your liability, taxes, and administrative requirements. Consult a company formation specialist like Unity Partners to determine the best structure for your needs and ensure compliance with Sharjah’s business regulations.
- Find a location: Finding a suitable location for your daycare is key to attracting clients and providing a safe, stimulating environment for children. The location must also comply with regulations set out by the relevant government authority (Ministry of Education). Look for a space that is easily accessible, has adequate indoor and outdoor areas, and meets safety standards. Once you find a potential location, ensure that it is certified from safety experts before signing a lease. And of course, ensure the terms of the lease align with your business plan and allow for any necessary renovations or modifications to the space.
Benefits of starting a daycare in Sharjah
Establishing a daycare centre in Sharjah comes with several benefits, including:
- Increased earnings potential: Opening a daycare centre can be a reliable way to generate a steady income. These facilities provide a critical service, and their relatively low operating costs, combined with the ability to tailor services to the needs of clients, make them a lucrative business opportunity.
- Community contribution: By opening a daycare centre in Sharjah, you can significantly benefit the local community. Every neighbourhood needs quality childcare options, and by providing this service, you can fill a vital need.
- Be your own boss: Starting a daycare centre in Sharjah allows you to create an environment that aligns with your vision and values. You have the freedom to design a safe and nurturing space for children and tailor the curriculum to meet your unique goals. Running a home daycare can result in lower overhead costs compared to other types of childcare businesses, giving you greater financial flexibility.
- Potential for expansion: The childcare sector is growing rapidly in Sharjah. Many daycare centres are experiencing an influx of new clients, reflecting this growing need. This expansion offers numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and explore new markets.
A final and important note on benefits: Working with children allows you to positively influence their development and help them grow into responsible adults. You have the chance to teach them valuable social skills, good manners, and how to interact positively with others. By encouraging their achievements and providing positive reinforcement, you can help build their self-esteem and confidence, which are crucial for their success in school and life.
Documents needed to start a daycare in Sharjah
Here’s a list of documents required to get you started, but it’s highly recommended to contact Unity Partners for the most up-to-date requirements and advice on any additional documents which may be needed for your specific company setup.:
- Passport and visa: The passport verifies identity while the visa permits residence and business activities.
- Certifications: All relevant documents pertaining to your ability to abide by government regulations as a person running daycare facilities.
- Bank statement: A bank statement demonstrating sufficient funds is required for business registration.
- Trade license: Permits a business to operate legally in Sharjah and it specifies the business activity, name, and legal structure.
- Memorandum of Association (MOA): The MOA outlines a company’s objectives, share capital, and shareholder details.
- Articles of Association (AOA): The AOA details the company’s internal regulations, including management structure, director appointments, shareholder rights, and profit distribution.
- Commercial lease agreement: A lease agreement for your daycare, specifying rent, duration, and landlord-tenant responsibilities.
Costs of starting a daycare in Sharjah
The cost of starting a daycare in Sharjah starts around AED 10,000 to 20,000. However, this initial investment only covers basic expenses. You will also need to consider additional costs such as renting or purchasing a suitable location, which must adhere to specific regulatory standards. Permits and licenses are mandatory and their fees vary depending on the size and type of your facility.
Beyond these, other expenses include renovations to create a child-friendly environment, purchasing educational materials, furniture, and safety equipment as well as marketing and hiring qualified staff.
About Unity Partners
Starting a daycare is a significant financial commitment, but with proper planning and support it can be a rewarding investment. For those navigating this process, Unity Partners offers expert assistance in business setup and can help you manage all the necessary steps efficiently.
Our experienced team can guide you through regulatory compliance, financial planning, and operational setup, ensuring your daycare in Sharjah starts on a solid foundation. Contact us today to get the support you need to make your daycare dream a reality.