Sharjah Media City (Shams) is a rapidly expanding free zone, founded in 2017, offering some of the lowest rates for company registration in the United Arab Emirates. As the region's first creative hub, SHAM Freezone empowers creative entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs, corporations, and freelancers by providing a supportive ecosystem for business growth in the media and creative industries.
For freelancers planning to engage in media activities, SHAM Freezone offers exclusive packages at discounted prices. These special bundles are available at no additional cost, making it an attractive option for independent professionals. The most affordable business setup package in SHAM Freezone allows entrepreneurs to choose up to five media-related activities for their license.
Recognized as a world-class free zone for the creative and media industries, SHAM Freezone provides cost-effective trade licenses and company setup solutions, making it an ideal destination for businesses looking to establish a strong presence in the UAE’s thriving media sector.
Looking to set up your media business in SHAM Freezone? Read our detailed guide to learn about the step-by-step process, costs, and benefits of starting your company in the dynamic hub.
Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) is a fast-growing free zone in the UAE, established in 2017 to support media and creative businesses. It helps startups and entrepreneurs in Sharjah develop their ideas and grow their companies. To start a business through the SHAMS Portal, you need a license from the SHAMS Authority.
This license is designed for individuals and businesses in the media, technology, and creative industries, including companies, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. SHAMS is one of the most affordable and well-known free zones in the UAE, offering a cost-effective business setup in freezone.
Setting up a business in SHAMS offers several benefits. Here is a list
SHAM Freezone licenses depend on the type of business activity you wish to engage in. Here is a list of available licenses based on your business activities
The Service License allows you to offer a wide range of services in the UAE and beyond. It covers activities like production, distribution, and transformation of services. This license also lets you use goods while providing your services, making it a complete solution for your business.
The Trade License gives you the ability to buy, sell, and distribute goods within SHAMS, as well as import and export them. It covers both wholesale and retail sales of goods and allows you to offer services related to these sales.
The Light-Industrial License allows businesses to produce, manufacture, and transform goods. Whether you're creating products from raw materials or enhancing existing goods, this license provides the legal framework and flexibility needed to operate throughout the production process.
Entrepreneurs looking for business setup in the UAE can browse through SHAM Freezone's variety of business licensing packages. The cost of the packages depends on your business type and niche, ensuring that you get the best value for your specific needs.
Contact Dhanguard to discuss which package best suits your business.
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 Sheet or Application Form
3 Name Choices
In the SHAM Freezone, you can set up your business as either a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a Branch. Here's a simple breakdown
LLC is a distinct legal entity from its owners, the obligations of the business cannot affect your personal assets. You can hire staff, get licenses, and open a business bank account on your own with this structure. It is a well-liked option for business owners looking for flexibility and low responsibility.
A branch shares the obligations and accomplishments of an established parent company, functioning as an extension of it. Although it enables you to open a business bank account, sponsor staff, and get licenses, the parent company is still accountable for the actions of the branch.
To legally establish a business in SHAM FreeZone, follow these steps.
Sign and submit your application to start the SHAM Freezone company registration process. This is the first step to legally setting up your business.
Submit the required documents based on your chosen package. You will also need to sign the necessary application forms to proceed with the registration.
We compile your final application and documents for SHAM Freezone. This free zone offers one of the most affordable trade licenses in the UAE.
SHAMS Freezone in Sharjah is an excellent choice for entrepreneurs, startups, and freelancers looking to establish a cost-effective business in the UAE’s media and creative industries. With its affordable business setup packages, flexible visa options, and diverse licensing opportunities, SHAMS provides a supportive ecosystem for companies to grow and succeed.
Whether you are a freelancer, an SME, or a corporation, SHAMS FreeZone offers an efficient registration process and a dynamic business environment to help you thrive. If you’re ready to start your business in SHAM Freezone, contact Dhanguard for expert guidance on selecting the right license and package to suit your business needs.
Sharjah Media City Freezone (Shams) is a creative free zone hub for innovation and creativity in the media and entertainment industries. It offers a range of services and facilities for entrepreneurs, startups, and established companies in these sectors.
Shams welcomes individuals, freelancers, startups, and companies from the media, entertainment, and creative industries, including advertising, broadcasting, film production, publishing, and digital media.
Businesses in Shams can be established as Free Zone Establishment (FZE), Free Zone Company (FZC), or as a Branch of an existing company.
Benefits include 100% foreign ownership, 100% repatriation of capital and profits, no personal income tax, no corporate tax, strategic location, state-of-the-art infrastructure, simplified company setup process, and access to a diverse talent pool.
The steps typically involve choosing a business activity, selecting a company name, obtaining initial approval, preparing and submitting required documents, leasing office space, obtaining licenses, and completing registration.
Required documents may include passport copies of shareholders and directors, a business plan, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable, and any specific documents related to the chosen business activity.
Costs vary depending on the type of business activity, the chosen business structure, office space requirements, visa packages, and other factors. It's advisable to consult with Shams authorities or a business setup consultant for accurate cost estimates.
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