Sharjah's Premier Free Zone
SHAMS Free Zone Company Setup
Sharjah Media City — known as SHAMS — is one of the UAE's most dynamic free zones, purpose-built for media, creative, consulting, and service-based businesses. With setup packages starting from just AED 5,750, 100% foreign ownership, and a streamlined digital registration process, SHAMS offers entrepreneurs an affordable gateway to establish their business in the UAE.
100%
Foreign Ownership
0%
Personal Tax
2,000+
Business Activities
AED 5,750
Starting From
100% Foreign Ownership
Zero Personal Income Tax
Media & Creative Hub
Remote Setup Available
2,000+ Activities
No Minimum Capital
Multi-Visa Options
Fast 3-Day Licensing
100% Foreign Ownership
Zero Personal Income Tax
Media & Creative Hub
Remote Setup Available
2,000+ Activities
No Minimum Capital
Multi-Visa Options
Fast 3-Day Licensing
Overview
What is SHAMS Free Zone?
Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) is a government-established free zone located in Sharjah, UAE. Launched to support the growing media, creative, and professional services sector, it has evolved into a comprehensive business hub catering to over 2,000 activities across multiple industries.
SHAMS Free Zone has become one of the most popular choices for entrepreneurs looking to establish a cost-effective business presence in the UAE. The free zone supports companies ranging from solo freelancers and startups to established SMEs and multinational corporations. Its strategic location near Sharjah International Airport and major seaports provides seamless access to regional and international markets. With over 6,500 companies already registered, SHAMS has built a vibrant business community that fosters collaboration and growth.
What sets SHAMS company formation apart from other UAE free zones is its combination of affordability, flexibility, and speed. Entrepreneurs can obtain their trade license in as little as 3 working days, with packages that include everything from zero-visa setups to multi-visa configurations with dedicated office space. Whether you're launching a media production company, an IT consultancy, or an e-commerce business, SHAMS provides the infrastructure and regulatory framework to support your growth.
Advantages
Benefits of SHAMS Free Zone Company Setup
Choosing SHAMS for your UAE business setup comes with significant advantages that make it one of the most attractive free zones in the region.
01
100% Foreign Ownership
Unlike mainland UAE companies that may require a local sponsor, SHAMS allows complete foreign ownership. You retain full control over your business operations, profits, and decision-making without sharing equity with a UAE national.
02
Tax-Free Environment
Businesses registered in SHAMS enjoy zero personal income tax and competitive corporate tax regulations. This tax-efficient structure maximizes your profitability and allows you to reinvest more capital into growing your business.
03
Affordable Setup Packages
SHAMS offers some of the most competitive company formation packages in the UAE, starting from AED 5,750. This makes it an ideal choice for startups, freelancers, and SMEs looking to minimize initial investment while maximizing value.
04
Fast Licensing Process
Get your trade license in as little as 3 working days. SHAMS has streamlined its registration process to minimize paperwork and bureaucracy, allowing you to start operations quickly and efficiently.
05
Strategic Location
Located near Sharjah International Airport and major seaports, SHAMS provides excellent connectivity to regional and international markets. Its proximity to Dubai (just 30 minutes) offers access to a broader business ecosystem.
06
Full Profit Repatriation
Transfer 100% of your profits and capital back to your home country without restrictions. This financial freedom ensures complete control over your business earnings and investment decisions.
07
No Minimum Capital Requirement
Unlike some free zones that require substantial paid-up capital, SHAMS has no minimum capital requirement for most license types. This removes a significant barrier to entry for new entrepreneurs.
08
Flexible Office Solutions
Choose from flexi-desks, shared workspaces, or dedicated offices based on your needs and budget. SHAMS provides modern facilities designed to support businesses at every stage of growth.
Why SHAMS
Why Choose SHAMS Free Zone?
With multiple free zones available in the UAE, here's what makes Sharjah Media City company setup stand out from the competition.
Fastest Setup in UAE
Get your trade license in just 3 working days with SHAMS' streamlined digital registration process. No unnecessary delays or complex paperwork.
Most Affordable Packages
Starting from AED 5,750, SHAMS offers some of the lowest setup costs in the UAE without compromising on quality or compliance.
Remote Setup Available
Start your company from anywhere in the world. SHAMS supports fully remote company formation with digital document submission and approval.
6,500+ Companies Trust SHAMS
Join a thriving community of over 6,500 registered companies across media, tech, consulting, and creative industries.
Dedicated Support
Receive personalized assistance from registration through to ongoing compliance, with expert guidance at every step of your journey.
International Market Access
Operate freely in international markets with a UAE-registered company, benefiting from the country's extensive trade agreements and connectivity.
License Types
Types of SHAMS Licenses
SHAMS offers three main license categories to accommodate different business models and operational requirements.
Commercial License
Ideal for trading activities including import, export, distribution, and retail operations.
- General trading activities
- Import & export operations
- Wholesale distribution
- Retail trading
- E-commerce operations
Industrial License
For manufacturing, processing, and production activities within the free zone.
- Manufacturing operations
- Processing activities
- Assembly operations
- Production facilities
- Quality control services
Service License
Perfect for professional services, consulting, IT, media, and creative industries.
- Business consultancy
- IT & software services
- Media production
- Marketing & advertising
- Healthcare services
Activities
Business Activities Available in SHAMS
SHAMS supports over 2,000 business activities across multiple sectors. Here are the most popular categories for company setup in SHAMS.
Media Production
IT Services
Digital Marketing
Education
Healthcare
E-Commerce
Consulting
Logistics
Creative Design
Photography
Music Production
Gaming
Packages
SHAMS Company Formation Packages
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Choose the package that fits your business stage and requirements.
Zero Visa Package
AED 5,750
Per Year · 0 Visas
- Trade license issuance
- Up to 3 business activities
- Flexi-desk workspace
- Multiple shareholders allowed
- 100% foreign ownership
- Digital registration
Most Popular
1 Visa Package
AED 8,400
Per Year · 1 Visa
- Trade license issuance
- Up to 5 business activities
- Flexi-desk workspace
- 1 investor/employee visa
- Emirates ID processing
- Medical test assistance
- Multiple shareholders allowed
Multi-Visa Package
AED 14,900
Per Year · Up to 4 Visas
- Trade license issuance
- Up to 7 business activities
- Dedicated desk workspace
- Up to 4 visas included
- Emirates ID processing
- Medical test assistance
- Priority bank account support
Cost Breakdown
SHAMS Free Zone Cost
Understanding the complete cost structure helps you budget accurately for your SHAMS free zone company setup.
| Cost Component | Estimated Cost (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| License Fee | 5,750 – 15,000 | Depends on package and activities |
| Visa Cost | 3,500 – 5,000 per visa | Includes Emirates ID & medical |
| Office Space | Included – 15,000+ | Flexi-desk included, dedicated extra |
| Registration Fee | 1,000 – 2,500 | One-time setup fee |
| Immigration Card | 2,000 – 2,500 | Required for visa sponsorship |
| Total Estimated | 8,000 – 25,000 | Depending on package & visas |
Process
SHAMS Company Registration Process
Our streamlined 8-step process ensures your SHAMS business setup is completed quickly and efficiently.
STEP 01
Choose Activity
Select from 2,000+ approved business activities that align with your goals and industry requirements.
STEP 02
Reserve Name
Pick and reserve your company name, ensuring compliance with SHAMS naming guidelines.
STEP 03
Submit Documents
Upload passport copies, photos, and application form via the digital portal — no UAE visit required.
STEP 04
Pay Fees
Complete payment for your chosen package including license, visa, and office fees.
STEP 05
Get Licensed
Receive initial approval and sign incorporation documents to obtain your official trade license.
STEP 06
Lease Office
Secure your flexi-desk or dedicated office space within SHAMS to meet physical presence requirements.
STEP 07
Visa Processing
Apply for UAE residency visas for yourself, employees, and dependents as per your package allocation.
STEP 08
Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account with our assistance to manage your business transactions seamlessly.
Requirements
Documents Required for SHAMS Registration
Minimal paperwork, maximum speed. Here's what you'll need for your SHAMS free zone registration.
Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (minimum 6 months validity)
Recent passport-sized photographs with white background
Completed application form with company details
Business plan outlining activities and objectives
Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
Emirates ID and valid UAE visa (for UAE residents only)
Memorandum of Association (MOA) for LLC structures
Bank reference letter (optional, depending on activity)
Visa Services
Visa Services in SHAMS Free Zone
SHAMS offers comprehensive visa solutions for business owners, employees, and their families.
Investor Visa
For business owners and shareholders. Provides 2-3 year residency with the ability to sponsor family members and open personal bank accounts.
Employment Visa
For employees working in your SHAMS-registered company. Includes Emirates ID, medical test, and residency permit for the duration of employment.
Family Visa
Sponsor your spouse, children, and parents once you have a valid UAE residency visa. Minimum salary requirements apply for family sponsorship.
Office Solutions
Office Solutions in SHAMS
Flexible workspace options to suit businesses at every stage of growth.
Flexi-Desk
Included in most packages. A shared workspace solution perfect for startups and solo entrepreneurs who don't require dedicated office space.
Shared Office
Collaborative workspace with shared facilities. Ideal for small teams looking for a professional environment without the cost of a private office.
Dedicated Office
Private office space with dedicated facilities. Perfect for established businesses requiring privacy, meeting rooms, and a permanent address.
Banking
Bank Account Assistance
Opening a corporate bank account is a critical step after your SHAMS company registration. We provide end-to-end support to ensure smooth account opening.
UAE banks have strict compliance requirements, and the account opening process can be complex for new businesses. Our team helps you prepare all necessary documentation, select the right bank for your business type, and navigate the approval process efficiently.
We work with multiple UAE banks to find the best fit for your company's needs, whether you require multi-currency accounts, online banking facilities, or international transfer capabilities.
Document preparation
Bank selection
Application support
Compliance guidance
Corporate Banking Made Simple
We've helped hundreds of SHAMS companies successfully open bank accounts with leading UAE financial institutions. Our established relationships with banks ensure faster processing and higher approval rates.
Why Us
Why Choose BizInvestFirm?
With over a decade of experience in UAE business setup, we've helped thousands of entrepreneurs successfully establish their companies in SHAMS and other free zones.
Expert Consultants
Our team includes former free zone officials and business setup specialists with deep knowledge of SHAMS regulations.
Fast Processing
We ensure your application is processed quickly and accurately, with most licenses issued within 3-5 working days.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees or surprise charges. We provide clear, upfront costs from the start with detailed breakdowns.
End-to-End Support
From initial consultation to post-setup compliance, we handle everything so you can focus on growing your business.
FAQ
SHAMS Free Zone FAQs
Everything you need to know about SHAMS Free Zone company setup answered by our experts.
What is SHAMS Free Zone?
SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) is a free zone in Sharjah, UAE, established to support media, creative, and service-based businesses. It offers 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, and one of the most affordable company formation packages in the UAE starting from AED 5,750. The free zone supports over 2,000 business activities and has registered more than 6,500 companies since its launch.
How much does SHAMS Free Zone company setup cost?
SHAMS Free Zone company setup costs start from AED 5,750 for a basic package with zero visas. Packages with visas range from AED 8,400 to AED 25,000 depending on the number of visas, office type, and business activities selected. Additional costs may include immigration card fees (AED 2,000-2,500) and medical test charges (AED 350-500 per person).
Can foreigners own 100% of a company in SHAMS?
Yes, SHAMS Free Zone allows 100% foreign ownership without requiring a local UAE sponsor. This gives international entrepreneurs complete control over their business operations, profits, and decision-making. This is one of the key advantages of free zone company formation compared to mainland UAE companies that may require local sponsorship.
How long does it take to set up a company in SHAMS?
Company setup in SHAMS Free Zone typically takes 3 to 7 working days, depending on document completeness and the type of business activity. Express processing is available for urgent requirements. The process includes name reservation, document submission, license issuance, and visa processing (if applicable).
What business activities are allowed in SHAMS Free Zone?
SHAMS supports over 2,000 business activities including media production, digital marketing, IT services, consultancy, e-commerce, trading, education, healthcare services, creative industries, logistics, and more. You can combine multiple activities under a single license depending on your chosen package.
Do I need to visit the UAE to set up my SHAMS company?
No, SHAMS supports fully remote company setup. Document submission, initial approval, and license issuance can all be completed digitally without visiting the UAE. However, if you require a UAE residency visa, you will need to visit for biometric registration and Emirates ID application. Certain bank account procedures may also require a physical visit.
Can I operate outside the UAE with a SHAMS license?
Yes, SHAMS Free Zone companies can operate internationally without restrictions. However, direct trading within the UAE mainland requires additional approvals or working through a local distributor. Many SHAMS companies operate globally while maintaining their UAE registration for tax and operational benefits.
What are the annual renewal costs for SHAMS?
Annual renewal costs are similar to initial setup costs, typically ranging from AED 5,750 to AED 25,000 depending on your package. This includes license renewal, office lease renewal, and visa renewals. Multi-year licenses may offer cost savings compared to annual renewals.
Is there a minimum capital requirement for SHAMS?
No, there is no minimum paid-up capital requirement for most SHAMS Free Zone licenses. This makes it particularly attractive for startups, solo founders, and small businesses who want to establish a UAE presence without committing significant upfront capital.
How can BizInvestFirm help with SHAMS company setup?
BizInvestFirm provides end-to-end support for SHAMS Free Zone company formation including activity selection, document preparation, license application, visa processing, office leasing, bank account opening, and ongoing compliance support. Our experienced consultants ensure a smooth, hassle-free setup experience.
Ready to Start Your SHAMS Free Zone Company?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who chose SHAMS for their UAE business setup. Get expert guidance, transparent pricing, and end-to-end support from BizInvestFirm. Contact us today for a free consultation and personalized package recommendation.
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frequently asked questions
Sharjah Free Zone is a business hub in the UAE offering tax-free benefits, 100% foreign ownership, and world-class infrastructure to attract global investors and businesses
It offers tax exemptions, 100% foreign ownership, strategic location, modern infrastructure, and a streamlined setup process, making it ideal for businesses.
You can choose from commercial, industrial, or service licenses, depending on your business activities.
Yes, Sharjah Free Zone allows 100% foreign ownership without the need for a local sponsor.
Businesses enjoy zero corporate and personal income taxes, as well as customs duty exemptions for up to 50 years.
You’ll need passport copies, a business plan, proof of address, a completed application form, and other relevant documents.
The process typically takes 7 to 10 working days, depending on the completeness of your application.
Costs vary but typically include license fees (AED 10,000–25,000), office rental (AED 15,000–50,000), and visa fees (AED 3,000–5,000 per visa).
Yes, renting office space or a warehouse is mandatory to meet the physical presence requirement.
Submit your business license, passport copies, and other required documents to a UAE bank to open an account.
Yes, you can apply for residency visas for yourself, your employees, and their dependents after company setup.
It supports trading, manufacturing, services, IT, healthcare, logistics, and more, catering to diverse business needs.
No, there is no minimum capital requirement for setting up a company in Sharjah Free Zone.
Biz Invest Firm provides end-to-end support, including license processing, document preparation, office leasing, and visa assistance, ensuring a hassle-free setup experience.