Opening a pharmacy in Sharjah is one of the more heavily regulated retail business types covered in this series, requiring health authority approval alongside the standard SEDD trade licence, given that pharmacies dispense medication and controlled substances directly to the public.
Licensing and health authority approval
A pharmacy needs a pharmaceutical trading/retail activity licence through SEDD, plus approval from the relevant health authority overseeing pharmacy standards in Sharjah, covering facility layout, medication storage conditions, and controlled-substance handling procedures. A licensed pharmacist must be registered and physically responsible for the pharmacy's operation.
Facility and staffing requirements
Health authority approval typically covers cold-chain storage for temperature-sensitive medication, secure storage for controlled substances, and minimum space requirements for consultation and dispensing areas.
Costs and timeline
Costs include the trade licence, health authority approval fees, and fit-out specific to pharmacy storage and dispensing requirements. Engage the relevant Sharjah health authority directly for current fee schedules and facility requirements.