Shams Free Zone: A Complete Guide to Setting Up a Business in the UAE
March 26, 2025
Guide to Setting Up a Business in Shams Free Zone
Shams Free Zone (Sharjah Media City Free Zone) has become one of the most attractive options for entrepreneurs and investors looking to start a business in the UAE. Located in Sharjah, Shams Free Zone offers a streamlined company formation process, a wide range of business activities, and cost-effective licensing options, making it a go-to destination for startups and established companies alike.
In this blog, we’ll explore what makes Shams Free Zone a favorable choice, the benefits of setting up a business here, and the steps you need to follow for company formation.
What is Shams Free Zone?
Shams Free Zone was established in 2017 to foster media and creative industries, although it now supports businesses across a wide array of sectors. It provides a nurturing environment for SMEs, freelancers, and multinational corporations seeking a base in the UAE.
Its strategic location, close to major seaports and airports, makes Shams a prime hub for businesses that require easy access to international markets.
Benefits of Setting Up a Business in Shams Free Zone
- 100% Foreign Ownership: Shams Free Zone allows full foreign ownership, meaning business owners have complete control over their companies without the need for a local sponsor.
- No Personal or Corporate Taxes: Businesses registered in Shams Free Zone enjoy tax exemptions, including no personal or corporate income taxes, making it a cost-effective choice.
- Full Repatriation of Profits and Capital: Entrepreneurs can repatriate all profits and capital without restrictions, providing financial flexibility for global investors.
- Wide Range of Business Activities: Shams supports over 120 business activities, including media, consulting, technology, trading, and service-related industries. This diversity makes it easier to find a business license that aligns with your operations.
- Affordable License Packages: Shams Free Zone offers some of the most competitive license packages in the UAE. License fees start at a relatively low rate, and entrepreneurs can easily start their businesses without a large initial investment.
- No Requirement for Physical Office Space: Unlike other jurisdictions, Shams allows businesses to be set up without requiring physical office space. This flexibility is especially useful for freelancers and small businesses.
- Quick and Efficient Setup: The company formation process in Shams Free Zone is quick and efficient, with licenses often being issued within days. The online application process further speeds up the setup.
Steps to Set Up a Business in Shams Free Zone
- Choose Your Business Activity: Shams Free Zone offers a wide array of business activities, from media production to consulting. Before starting the process, you’ll need to determine the exact business activities you plan to engage in, as this will affect your license type.
- Choose a Legal Structure: You can establish your business as either a Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC) or a Branch of an existing company. FZ LLC is the most common structure for new businesses.
- Choose Your Business Name: Selecting a unique trade name is an essential step. Ensure that the name complies with the naming conventions of the UAE and is available for registration.
- Submit Your Application: You can submit your business license application online. Along with the application, you’ll need to provide the necessary documents, such as passport copies, visa details, and proof of address.
- Get Your Business License: Once your application is approved, you will receive your business license. The license type depends on your chosen business activity.
- Open a Bank Account: After receiving your license, you can open a corporate bank account in the UAE. Most free zones, including Shams, provide assistance with banking services.
- Visa Processing: If you require visas for yourself and employees, you can apply for residence visas under your Shams Free Zone business. The number of visas you’re eligible for depends on your chosen license and office setup.
Shams Free Zone stands out for its affordable and flexible licensing options, a wide range of permissible business activities, and its commitment to providing a streamlined business setup process. It’s particularly appealing to startups and SMEs due to the low setup costs and the lack of requirements for physical office space.
Moreover, its location in Sharjah gives businesses easy access to the vibrant markets of both Sharjah and Dubai, ensuring growth opportunities and international reach.
Conclusion
Shams Free Zone is an excellent choice for entrepreneurs looking to establish a business in the UAE. Whether you’re a freelancer, an SME, or an international corporation, the free zone’s flexible options and favorable business environment make it an ideal location to start or expand your business.
By taking advantage of the benefits offered by Shams, you can establish a thriving business with minimal hassle, all while enjoying the benefits of operating in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
If you’re interested in setting up your business in Shams Free Zone, now is the time to take action and unlock the potential of the UAE market.
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