SHAMS
What is Sharjah Media City (Shams) Free Zone?
Sharjah Media City (Shams) is a free zone in the Emirate of Sharjah, UAE, established in 2017 to foster and support the growth of media, creative, and entertainment industries. Despite its focus on media-related activities, Shams Free Zone offers a wide range of business licenses and activities, making it a versatile hub for entrepreneurs, freelancers, SMEs, and multinational corporations alike. It has quickly gained prominence as a dynamic, cost-effective free zone with easy business setup procedures, particularly appealing to startups and media-related businesses.
Key Features and Benefits of Shams Free Zone
100% Foreign Ownership:
As with other free zones in the UAE, Shams offers full ownership to foreign investors, eliminating the need for a local sponsor.
Affordable Business Setup:
Shams is known for its cost-effective company formation packages, making it one of the most affordable free zones in the UAE. Business setup costs start at very competitive rates, which is attractive to startups and small businesses.
Wide Range of Business Activities:
Shams provides licenses for a variety of business activities, not just limited to media and creative industries. Some of the main categories include:
- Media
- E-commerce
- Trading
- Consultancy services
- Marketing and advertising
- IT services
No Requirement for Physical Office Space:
Shams allows companies to operate without a physical office. Businesses can choose virtual offices or flexi-desk options, which makes it ideal for freelancers and businesses that do not require a permanent office.
No Corporate or Personal Taxes:
Companies operating in Shams benefit from a zero-tax regime, with no corporate or personal income taxes, allowing businesses to maximize their profits.
Full Repatriation of Profits and Capital:
Shams allows businesses to repatriate 100% of their profits and capital, which is a key benefit for foreign investors.
Business Setup in 24 Hours:
Shams boasts a fast and efficient setup process, allowing companies to obtain their license and start operating within 24 to 48 hours in most cases.
No Auditing Requirements:
Shams does not require businesses to submit annual audits, simplifying compliance and financial reporting for companies.
Visa Services:
Shams provides flexible visa packages for business owners, employees, and investors. Depending on the business license, companies can apply for multiple visas, making it easy for companies to bring in their staff.
Comprehensive Business Support:
Shams offers a range of business support services, including legal and administrative support, marketing consultation, and access to training programs, to help businesses grow and thrive in the free zone.
Types of Licenses Offered in Shams Free Zone
Service License:
For businesses offering professional services, consulting, or other non-trading activities.
Trading License:
Allows businesses to engage in the buying and selling of goods within Shams and internationally.
Industrial License:
For businesses involved in light industrial and manufacturing activities.
Holding License:
Designed for companies that intend to hold assets, shares, or stakes in other companies.
Business Activities in Shams Free Zone
While Shams is geared toward media and creative industries, it supports over 120 business activities across various sectors, such as:
- Media and Entertainment (e.g., production, publishing, broadcasting)
- Marketing and Advertising
- E-commerce and Online Businesses
- IT Services and Software Development
- Consultancy Services
- Graphic Design, Animation, and Videography
- Event Management
- Education and Training
Process of Setting Up a Business in Shams Free Zone
Choose Your Business Activity and License Type:
Decide on the type of business you want to start and the corresponding license (trading, service, industrial, etc.).
Submit Application and Documents:
Submit the required documents, which typically include:
- Passport copy
- Passport-sized photograph
- Proof of address
- Business activity details
Receive Initial Approval:
Once the application is reviewed and approved, Shams will issue initial approval for the business.
Sign Legal Documents:
Sign the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and other legal agreements necessary to formalize the company formation.
Receive the Business License:
After completing the formalities, Shams will issue the business license, allowing you to start operations immediately.
Visa Processing:
Apply for visas for business owners, partners, and employees through Shams’ visa services.
Optional Office Setup:
Depending on your business needs, you can choose between virtual offices, flexi-desks, or physical office spaces in Shams.
Why Choose Shams Free Zone?
Cost-Effective Business Setup: One of the most affordable free zones in the UAE, making it ideal for startups and SMEs.
Quick Setup Process: Shams offers a streamlined company formation process that can be completed in as little as 24 hours.
No Physical Office Required: Companies can operate with virtual offices or flexi-desk options, providing flexibility and cost savings.
Support for Freelancers: Shams is popular among freelancers and entrepreneurs who want to establish themselves as individual service providers.
Wide Range of Business Activities: Shams caters to a diverse range of industries, from media and entertainment to trading, IT, and consultancy.
Proximity to Dubai: While located in Sharjah, Shams is in close proximity to Dubai, offering easy access to the larger UAE market and international hubs.
Conclusion
Shams Free Zone is an excellent choice for businesses, entrepreneurs, and freelancers looking for an affordable, flexible, and efficient business setup solution in the UAE. With its focus on media and creative industries, combined with diverse business activities, Shams provides a vibrant environment for businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re a startup, a small business, or a multinational corporation, Sharjah Media City (Shams) Free Zone offers the infrastructure, support, and opportunities needed to succeed.