How to Set Up a Company in SHAMS Free Zone: Costs, Timeline, Benefits & Documents

Ready to start your business in the UAE? SHAMS Free Zone could be the simple, flexible and cost-effective way to turn your business idea into reality.

Located in Sharjah, Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) Free Zone is a popular UAE free zone for entrepreneurs, startups, freelancers, e-commerce businesses, consultants, media companies, creative professionals and SMEs.

With 100% foreign ownership, a wide range of business activities, online registration and company setup packages starting from AED 5,750, SHAMS offers entrepreneurs a flexible way to establish a UAE business.

In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about setting up a company in SHAMS Free Zone, including the setup process, costs, timelines, documents, visa options, benefits and frequently asked questions.

What Is SHAMS Free Zone?

Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) is a free zone in Sharjah focused on media, creativity, entrepreneurship and a broad range of commercial and professional activities.

Although SHAMS has a strong media and creative identity, the free zone offers businesses a wide selection of activities, including areas such as e-commerce, general trading, consultancy, photography, podcasting, marketing and other professional and commercial activities.

One of the biggest advantages is that 100% foreign ownership is permitted, meaning international entrepreneurs can own their SHAMS company without a mandatory local partner.

How to Set Up a Company in SHAMS Free Zone

Setting up your company with SHAMS is designed to be simple and can be completed online.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity

The first step is deciding what your company will do.

SHAMS offers a wide range of business activities, and multiple activities can be combined under the same business license where permitted.

Popular options include:

• E-commerce

• General trading

• Consultancy

• Marketing and advertising

• Photography

• Podcasting

• Media and publishing

• IT and technology

• Management services

• Creative services

• Professional services

Choosing the correct activity is important, because your selected activity determines what your company is licensed to do and whether any additional approvals are required.

Step 2: Choose Your License Package

SHAMS offers different packages depending on your business requirements.

Current published options include:

Media Package

Starting from AED 5,750

Designed for businesses looking for a cost-effective setup with media-related activities.

Standard Package

Starting from AED 6,875

Designed for a wider range of commercial and professional activities.

Media Package With Visas

SHAMS also offers Media Package options with visa facilities.

Standard Package With Visas

Businesses can choose Standard Package options that include visa eligibility for entrepreneurs and their teams.

SHAMS also currently advertises other options and promotional packages, so the most suitable package depends on your activities, shareholders, visa requirements and license duration.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once you have selected your activity and package, you can submit your application online.

SHAMS describes its setup process in three main stages:

1. Select your license type and business activity

2. Submit your documents and make payment

3. Receive your business license

This online process makes SHAMS particularly attractive for entrepreneurs who want to establish a UAE company without a lengthy traditional registration process.

Step 4: Receive Your SHAMS Business License

Once your application and documents are approved and the required payment is completed, SHAMS issues the company license and incorporation documents.

SHAMS states that all company documents are issued within days, while another official SHAMS page promotes license issuance within 24 hours for its setup process. The exact timeline can depend on the application, activity and documentation.

For entrepreneurs who require UAE residency, the visa and Emirates ID process will require additional steps and time.

How Long Does SHAMS Company Formation Take?

One of the key advantages of SHAMS is its streamlined online setup.

For a straightforward application with complete documentation, the business license can potentially be issued within 24 hours, while SHAMS also states that company documents are issued within days.

Typical SHAMS Setup Timeline

Important: The timeline can vary depending on the business activity, document completeness, government approvals and whether you require visas or other services.

How Much Does It Cost to Set Up a Company in SHAMS?

SHAMS currently advertises company setup packages starting from AED 5,750.

Current starting prices include:

The exact price depends on the package, business activities, license duration, visa requirements and additional services.

SHAMS also advertises special packages and promotional offers from time to time, so it is worth checking the latest available option before applying.

Other SHAMS Options

SHAMS currently advertises additional packages such as:

• Trader Package

• Freelance Package

• Venture Studio

• Office and business center packages

• Visa-inclusive packages

• Long-term license options

• Fixed-renewal options

For example, SHAMS currently advertises a Trader Package at AED 6,500 and a Freelance Package at AED 15,520, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.

The best package is not necessarily the cheapest one. Your business activity, visa requirements and long-term plans should determine which option makes the most sense.

Documents Required for SHAMS Free Zone Company Formation

For a standard company setup, you should generally prepare the following:

For Individual Shareholders

• Valid passport copy

• Passport-size photograph

• UAE residence visa copy, if applicable

• Emirates ID copy, if applicable

• Full address

• Contact details

• Proposed company name

• Selected business activity

• Completed onboarding/application forms

SHAMS's onboarding documentation specifically requests passport information and, where applicable, UAE residence visa and Emirates ID copies, together with personal and contact information.

Additional Documents for Certain Companies

Depending on the legal structure and nature of the business, SHAMS may also require:

• Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) form

• Business plan

• Corporate shareholder documents

• Certificate of Incorporation

• Articles of Incorporation

• Good Standing Certificate

• Board Resolution

• Power of Attorney

• Parent company documents

SHAMS notes that additional documentation may be required for LLCs and branches, particularly where a corporate shareholder or parent company is involved.

Tip: Having your documents ready before applying can significantly reduce unnecessary delays.

What Are the Main Benefits of SHAMS Free Zone?

1. 100% Foreign Ownership

One of the biggest advantages is that 100% foreign ownership is permitted.

You do not need a mandatory local partner to own your SHAMS company.

2. Affordable Company Formation

With packages starting from AED 5,750, SHAMS provides an accessible entry point for entrepreneurs looking to establish a UAE business.

3. Fast Online Registration

The registration process is designed to be completed online, making it convenient for entrepreneurs in the UAE and overseas.

4. Wide Range of Business Activities

SHAMS provides businesses with access to a broad range of activities, and multiple activities can be available under one license where permitted.

5. Flexible Visa Options

SHAMS offers license packages with visa options, allowing entrepreneurs to select a setup that matches their staffing and residency requirements.

6. No Mandatory Deposit

SHAMS states that deposits are not required by the free zone.

7. Repatriation of Capital and Profits

SHAMS lists 100% repatriation of capital and profits among its key benefits.

8. Flexible Office Solutions

SHAMS offers business center and office solutions for companies that require physical workspace. Its business center options include furnished private offices and access to facilities such as meeting rooms and high-speed internet.

9. Banking Assistance

SHAMS also promotes assistance with business banking and has a preferred banking partner for entrepreneurs looking to establish a corporate bank account.

Bank account approval, however, remains subject to the bank's own compliance and approval procedures.

Do SHAMS Free Zone Companies Pay Corporate Tax?

This is an important point for every UAE entrepreneur.

Being registered in a UAE free zone does not automatically mean that every type of income is subject to 0% Corporate Tax.

The UAE Corporate Tax framework provides a 0% rate on qualifying income for a Qualifying Free Zone Person, subject to the applicable conditions. Other taxable income may be subject to the standard UAE Corporate Tax rate.

SHAMS currently highlights a 0% rate on taxable income that does not exceed AED 375,000 on its setup pages.

Businesses should assess their own Corporate Tax obligations based on their activities, income and applicable UAE tax rules.

For businesses with complex structures or significant revenue, professional tax advice is recommended.

Do I Need to Be a UAE Resident to Set Up a SHAMS Company?

No.

SHAMS's official FAQ states that an investor does not need to be a UAE resident to establish a business in SHAMS.

This makes SHAMS an attractive option for international entrepreneurs who want to establish a UAE company from overseas.

If you require UAE residency, you can explore the applicable investor or employment visa options after company formation.

Can I Sponsor My Family With a SHAMS Company?

Yes, eligible company owners who obtain UAE residency can explore dependent visa options for their family, subject to the applicable UAE immigration requirements.

SHAMS confirms that dependent visas can be obtained.

Is SHAMS Free Zone Suitable for E-Commerce Businesses?

Yes.

E-commerce is among the business activities promoted by SHAMS, making it an option for entrepreneurs launching online stores, digital businesses and other online ventures.

However, the exact activity should be selected according to what your business actually sells or provides.

Who Should Consider SHAMS Free Zone?

SHAMS can be a strong option for:

• Entrepreneurs launching a new UAE company

• Freelancers and independent professionals

• Consultants

• E-commerce businesses

• Digital marketing agencies

• Creative professionals

• Media companies

• Photographers

• Podcasters

• Technology businesses

• Trading companies

• Startups and SMEs

• International entrepreneurs entering the UAE

If you want 100% ownership, a fast setup process and a flexible license structure, SHAMS is certainly a free zone worth considering.

SHAMS Free Zone Setup Checklist

Before submitting your application, make sure you have:

• Selected your business activity

• Chosen your SHAMS license package

• Selected the number of visas required

• Prepared your passport copy

• Prepared passport-size photographs

• Prepared UAE visa and Emirates ID copies, if applicable

• Selected your company name

• Prepared any required UBO information

• Prepared a business plan if required

• Checked whether your activity requires additional approval

• Determined whether you require office/facility space

• Reviewed the total setup and renewal costs

Why Set Up Your SHAMS Company With FreeZoneMarket?

Choosing a free zone is only the first step. Choosing the right package and getting the setup right from the beginning can make a big difference.

At FreeZoneMarket, we have a strong partnership with SHAMS Free Zone, and our team is here to assist you if you require a SHAMS license.

Whether you're starting a new business, expanding into the UAE or simply looking for a more cost-effective license, we can help you understand your options.

With FreeZoneMarket, you can get assistance with:

✓ Choosing the right SHAMS license

Not sure whether you need a Media, Standard, Trader, Freelance or another package? We can help you identify the option that best fits your business.

✓ Selecting the right business activity

The right activity matters. We can help you understand the available activities and identify the most suitable licensing route.

✓ Understanding your total costs

We help you look beyond the headline license price and understand the potential costs for visas, immigration, facilities and additional services.

✓ Company formation assistance

From preparing your application to getting your company documents, our team can guide you through the process.

✓ Visa assistance

If you require UAE residency, we can assist you with understanding the available visa process and requirements.

✓ A smoother setup experience

Instead of trying to navigate the free zone process alone, you have a team on your side to help you move forward.

Frequently Asked Questions About SHAMS Free Zone

1. How much does it cost to set up a company in SHAMS Free Zone?

SHAMS currently advertises setup packages starting from AED 5,750. The final price depends on your license type, activities, license duration, visa requirements and additional services.

2. How quickly can I get a SHAMS Free Zone license?

SHAMS promotes a fast online registration process and states that licenses can be issued within 24 hours for its setup process. The exact timeline depends on the application and documentation.

3. Can foreigners own 100% of a SHAMS company?

Yes. SHAMS permits 100% foreign ownership, and a mandatory local partner is not required.

4. What documents are required to set up a SHAMS company?

For individual shareholders, the main documents generally include a passport copy, passport photograph and, where applicable, UAE visa and Emirates ID copies. Additional documents such as a UBO form, business plan or corporate documents may be required depending on the company structure.

5. Do I need to be a UAE resident to establish a SHAMS company?

No. SHAMS confirms that an investor does not have to be a UAE resident to establish a company.

6. Can I get a UAE residence visa through a SHAMS company?

Yes. SHAMS offers packages with visa options. The number of visas and associated costs depend on the package and requirements selected.

7. Can I have multiple business activities on one SHAMS license?

SHAMS promotes the ability to have a wide range of business activities available on the same business license, subject to the applicable activity and licensing rules.

8. Can FreeZoneMarket help me obtain a SHAMS license?

Absolutely.

At FreeZoneMarket, we have a strong partnership with SHAMS Free Zone and are here to assist you if you require a SHAMS license.

From choosing the right activity and package to understanding your setup costs and visa requirements, our team can help make your UAE company formation simpler, faster and more straightforward.

Ready to start? Contact FreeZoneMarket today and let's get your SHAMS company underway.