Thinking of starting a business in the UAE? Sharjah Media City Free Zone (Shams) is one of the best places to do it! Since launching in January 2017, this free zone has become home to creative and media companies from over 160 countries. It’s designed to help businesses grow fast while keeping costs low.
Why Choose Shams?
- Affordable business setup – One of the cheapest company registrations in the UAE.
- Multiple visas on a shared office – Great for teams or entrepreneurs who need flexible visa options.
- Multiple business activities on one license – No need to get separate licenses for different services.
- Prime location – Just 5 minutes from Sharjah International Airport and 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport.
Shams is all about creativity and innovation. Whether you’re a startup, freelancer, or a big company, this free zone makes business setup easy. It’s built for media, creative industries, and e-commerce, but also supports a wide range of other businesses.
A Free Zone Backed by a Strong Economy
Sharjah’s 2024 budget stands at AED 40.8 billion, and its GDP is AED 140 billion. This makes the business setup in Sharjah Free Zone a smart move for anyone looking to invest in a growing economy.
Keep reading to find out how to register a company in the Sharjah Media City Free Zone.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Business in Sharjah Media City
Starting a business in Sharjah Media City Free Zone (Shams) is a smart move. It’s easy, affordable, and gives you access to the UAE’s growing economy. Whether you’re a startup, freelancer, or an established company, this free zone makes it simple to register a company in Sharjah and get your business running in no time.
Here’s everything you need to know about setting up your business in Shams Free Zone – from choosing a business structure to getting your license and starting operations.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
In Shams Free Zone, you can set up your business as either a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a Branch.
LLC (Limited Liability Company)
- An LLC in Shams is an independent business with its own legal identity.
- Protects you from company debts.
- You can hire employees, apply for visas, and open a business bank account.
Branch
- A Branch in Shams is linked to its parent company.
- The parent company is responsible for its operations.
- You can still apply for visas and open a business bank account.
Step 2: Choose the Right Business License
Shams offers three types of business licenses, depending on what you want to do.
1. Service License
- Ideal for businesses offering services like consulting, IT, or marketing.
- Allows production, reproduction, transformation, and distribution of services.
- You can also use goods while providing your service.
2. Trade License
- For businesses involved in buying, selling, importing, and exporting goods.
- Covers wholesale, retail, and e-commerce activities.
3. Light-Industrial License
- Best for businesses involved in production, transformation, and manufacturing.
- Allows you to process raw materials or improve existing products.
Step 3: Select Your Business Activity
Shams Free Zone supports over 120 business activities, giving you the freedom to combine multiple activities under one license.
Popular business activities include:
Information & Communication
Professional & Technical Services
Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
Whether you want to start a media company, e-commerce business, or consultancy, Shams has an activity for you.
Step 4: Understand the Rules & Regulations
Before setting up your business, it’s good to know the basic Shams Free Zone regulations.
Free Zone Companies and Licensing Regulations 2024
- Replaces the 2017 version and governs company formation, licensing, and operations in Shams.
- UAE Commercial Companies Law (Federal Law No. 2 of 2015) does not apply unless specifically stated.
Company Incorporation & Licensing
- Businesses in the Shams Free Zone must be Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) with 1-50 shareholders.
- A Branch can be set up by a local or foreign company but is legally linked to its parent company.
- A valid business license is required to operate.
- Licenses cannot be transferred without prior approval.
- Companies must obtain additional permits if they operate outside the Free Zone.
Ownership & Capital Requirements
- 100% foreign ownership is allowed.
- Share capital must be fully paid when issued.
- No bearer shares or fractional shares are allowed.
Compliance & Restrictions
- Businesses must follow employment laws, health & safety regulations, and ethical codes.
- Banned activities include contraband goods, boycotted products, and illegal services.
- Licenses must be renewed before expiry.
- Any major changes (like change of directors, or shareholder structure) must be reported within 15 business days.
License Suspension or Cancellation
The Authority can revoke or suspend licenses for:
- Regulatory violations
- Non-payment of fees or fines
- Failure to start a business within the given timeframe
- Engaging in illegal or unethical activities
- Failure to renew the license for more than six months
Overwhelmed? No worries! You can always hire business setup consultants to help with everything.
Step 5: Prepare Your Documents
To register a company in the Sharjah Free Zone, you’ll need to submit the following documents.
For Individual Shareholders
Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
Visa page copy (if applicable)
Emirates ID (if applicable)
Passport-sized photos
Personal information form
Three company name choices
For Corporate Shareholders
Document requirements may change based on license type and Shams Free Zone authority guidelines.
Step 6: Business Setup Timeline
Setting up a business in Sharjah Media City Free Zone is fast! Here’s how long it takes:
Day 1 – Submit application & company formation documents.
Day 5 – Trade license is issued.
Day 7 – Establishment card issued.
Day 10 – Entry permit applied.
Day 12 – Entry permit issued.
Residency visa issued – Final step!
All in all you can simply hire experts to take care of everything for you! At Bestax we offer very affordable and exclusive business setup packages. Take a look at our Sharjah Media City company formation package.
Let Bestax handle everything for you! With 19+ years of experience, we help businesses set up quickly and cost-effectively.
Affordable Business Setup Package – Starting from AED 14,300
For a smooth and hassle-free company formation, consider this Shams Free Zone Business Setup Package from Bestax:
- License Fee for one year
- 1 Visa Allocation included
- Up to 5 Business Activities covered
- Registration and Administrative Fees included
- Unit Lease Agreement Fee covered
- E-Channel Registration for seamless processing
- Immigration Card Valid for 2 Years
- Investor UAE Residence Visa, including approval and medical process
- Emirates ID Typing for residency processing
Additional Startup Assistance
- Corporate Bank Account Setup with WIO Digital
- Personal Bank Account Setup with Emirates NBD
- 30-Minute Consultation with a Senior Tax Consultant
Start Your Business in Sharjah Media City Today
If you are looking for an easy and cost-effective way to start your business, Shams Free Zone offers some of the best options in the UAE. Whether you need a commercial license in Sharjah, an e-commerce license, or a Sharjah free zone license, this is the right place to get started.
With expert guidance from Bestax, the entire process becomes seamless. We take care of all the paperwork, legal requirements, and approvals so you can focus on growing your business.
Contact us today to begin your business setup in Sharjah Free Zone and take advantage of all the benefits this dynamic free zone has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a trade license cost in Sharjah?
The cost of obtaining a trade license in Sharjah varies based on the type of license and the specific free zone.
What are the main free zones in Sharjah?
Sharjah hosts several prominent free zones, including:
- Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone): Located near Sharjah International Airport, it caters to various industries with facilities like warehouses and offices.
- Hamriyah Free Zone (HAFZA): Established in 1995, it offers access to seaports and is home to over 6,500 companies.
- Sharjah Media City (Shams) Free Zone: Launched in 2017, it focuses on media, creative, and digital industries, providing flexible licensing options.
How can I contact Sharjah Media City (Shams)?
To reach Sharjah Media City (Shams), you can visit their official website at https://www.shams.ae/, where contact details and further information are available.
What is the process for setting up a business in Sharjah?
Setting up a business in Sharjah typically involves the following steps:
- Select a Free Zone: Choose a free zone that aligns with your business activities.
- Decide on Business Activity and Trade Name: Determine your business activities and choose a unique trade name following the free zone’s guidelines.
- Prepare Required Documentation: Gather necessary documents, such as passport copies and a business plan.
- Submit Application: Complete application forms and submit them along with the required documents to the free zone authorities.
- Obtain Licenses and Visas: Once approved, obtain your business license and apply for any necessary visas.
Which is the most affordable free zone in Sharjah?
Sharjah Media City (Shams) Free Zone is considered one of the most cost-effective options for business setup in Sharjah. With license packages starting from AED 5,750, it offers competitive pricing and flexible licensing options, making it attractive for startups and small businesses.
Does Sharjah offer free zone business setup options?
Yes, Sharjah offers several free zone business setup options, including Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone), Hamriyah Free Zone (HAFZA), and Sharjah Media City (Shams) Free Zone. These zones provide benefits like 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and streamlined setup processes.
What are the key benefits of starting a business in Sharjah?
Starting a business in Sharjah offers several advantages, such as:
- 100% Foreign Ownership: Free zones allow full ownership without the need for a local partner.
- Tax Benefits: Companies enjoy exemptions from corporate and personal income taxes.
- Strategic Location: Sharjah’s proximity to major seaports and airports facilitates easy access to international markets.
- Modern Infrastructure: Advanced facilities and services support various business activities.
- Simplified Setup Process: Streamlined procedures make it easier to establish and operate a business.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only. For professional assistance and advice, please contact experts.
