Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) Business Setup

Sharjah Media City (Shams) is a free zone located in the emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. It was established in 2017 to provide a business-friendly environment for media and creative industries, including advertising, publishing, music, film, digital media, and more. The aim of Shams is to attract local and international entrepreneurs to set up their businesses and take advantage of the advanced infrastructure and services provided by the free zone.

Shams offers a variety of business setup options, including company formation, branch setup, and freelance permits. The free zone also provides a range of support services such as visa assistance, legal and accounting services, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.

In addition, Shams offers a unique feature called the Shams Entrepreneurship Programme (SEP), which provides support to young entrepreneurs looking to start a business in the media and creative industries. The programme includes mentorship, training, and networking opportunities to help startups grow and succeed.

A Guide for Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) Business Setup

Step 1: Choose the type of company

The first step in SHAMS Business Setup is to choose the type of company that you want to register. You can choose between a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) or a Free Zone Company (FZCO). An FZE is a single shareholder company, while an FZCO is a multiple shareholder company.

Step 2: Choose the activity and trade name

Once you have decided on the type of company, you need to choose the activity that you want to carry out and register a unique trade name for your company. It is essential to ensure that your chosen activity is allowed in SHAMS and that the trade name is not already registered.

Step 3: Fill out the application form

The next step is to fill out the application form and provide all the necessary details, including personal information, business activity, and the proposed trade name. You also need to provide your passport copy, visa copy, and a no-objection certificate from your current sponsor (if applicable).

Step 4: Submit the application form and documents

Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the necessary documents, you can submit them to the SHAMS authority. The application can be submitted online or in person at the SHAMS office.

Step 5: Receive the initial approval

After submitting the application, you will receive initial approval from the SHAMS authority. This approval is subject to the verification of your documents and payment of the required fees.

Step 6: Pay the fees

You need to pay the required fees to proceed with the registration process. The fees include the registration fee, license fee, and other charges based on the type of company and activity.

Step 7: Sign the documents

Once you have paid the fees, you need to sign the necessary documents, including the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and the Articles of Association (AOA). The MOA outlines the objectives, scope, and limitations of the company, while the AOA defines the rules and regulations governing the company’s operations.

Step 8: Receive the license

After signing the documents and completing all the formalities, you will receive your business license from the SHAMS authority. The license will specify the activity that you are authorized to carry out and the type of company that you have registered.

Step 9: Open a bank account

To operate your business in SHAMS, you need to open a bank account in the UAE. You can choose any bank of your choice and provide the necessary documents to open the account.

Step 10: Obtain visas for employees

If you plan to hire employees, you need to obtain visas for them to work legally in the UAE. SHAMS offers visa services to its clients, and you can apply for visas for your employees through the SHAMS authority.

Advantages of SHAMS Free Zone Company License

Tax Exemptions: One of the biggest advantages of Business Setup in Sharjah Media City is the tax exemptions. Companies established in Shams are exempted from corporate and personal income taxes, making it a financially viable option for businesses.

100% Foreign Ownership: SHAMS Free Zone Company License allows 100% foreign ownership, which means that investors can fully own their businesses without the need for local partners.

Easy Company Formation: Shams has a streamlined process for company formation, making it easy and convenient for investors to set up their businesses. The entire process can be completed within a few days, with minimum documentation and legal requirements.

Cost-Effective: Sharjah Media City offers cost-effective solutions for businesses. The setup costs and maintenance fees are lower than in other free zones in the UAE.

Strategic Location: Sharjah Media City is strategically located between Dubai and Sharjah, making it easily accessible for investors. It is just a few minutes away from Dubai International Airport and Sharjah International Airport, which makes it a convenient location for businesses.

World-Class Infrastructure: Shams provides world-class infrastructure to businesses, including state-of-the-art office spaces, conference rooms, and other amenities. The free zone also has a fiber-optic network, high-speed internet, and advanced communication systems.

Flexibility: Sharjah Media City offers flexibility to businesses. Companies can choose from a range of business activities and have the freedom to customize their business model according to their needs.

Networking Opportunities: Shams provides businesses with networking opportunities, allowing them to connect with other companies, entrepreneurs, and investors in the region. This can help businesses to grow, expand and build relationships.

Visa Services: Shams provides visa services to businesses, making it easy for investors to obtain residency visas for themselves and their employees. This can help businesses to attract and retain talent.

Fast Business Setup: Sharjah Media City offers a fast and efficient business setup process, enabling investors to start their businesses quickly and easily. The entire process can be completed within a few days, with minimum paperwork and legal requirements.

Types of licenses in SHAMS:

Service License:

Service License is issued to companies that provide services such as consulting, marketing, accounting, and other similar professional services. It allows the company to conduct business activities within the scope of the license and does not permit the company to trade or import/export goods.

Trading License:

Trading License allows companies to import, export, and trade goods within the UAE and internationally. This license is suitable for companies that are involved in the wholesale or retail trade of physical goods.

Industrial License:

Industrial License is issued to companies that are involved in manufacturing, industrial activities, and other similar activities. This license is suitable for companies that have a physical manufacturing or production facility.

Holding License:

Holding License is issued to companies that are established with the primary objective of holding assets, such as shares, stocks, or other investments, for the purpose of managing and controlling them. This license does not allow the company to conduct any business activities.

Freelance Permit:

Freelance Permit is a license issued to individuals who work as freelancers in the media and creative industries. This permit allows them to work legally and obtain residency in the UAE while working on projects for clients.

E-commerce License:

An E-commerce License is issued to companies that operate online stores, e-commerce websites, or mobile apps. This license is suitable for companies that conduct business activities exclusively online.

Service Agent License:

Service Agent License is issued to companies that provide support services to other companies operating in the UAE. These services may include legal, financial, or administrative support.

Branch License:

Branch License is issued to companies that are already established in other countries and wish to establish a branch office in the UAE. This license allows the company to operate as an extension of the parent company and carry out the same business activities.

Virtual Commercial License:

A virtual Commercial License is issued to companies that do not require a physical office space to conduct business. This license allows the company to operate from a remote location while still having a legal presence in the UAE.

Media License:

Media License is issued to companies that are involved in media and entertainment-related activities such as TV and radio broadcasting, film production, and publishing. This license is suitable for companies that require a physical office and studio space to conduct their business activities.

In conclusion, setting up a business in Sharjah Media City provides many advantages, including tax exemptions, 100% foreign ownership, easy company formation, cost-effectiveness, strategic location, world-class infrastructure, flexibility, networking opportunities, visa services, and fast business setup. These advantages make it an attractive location for businesses looking to establish their presence in the UAE.