SHAMS FREE ZONE Company Formation

Start your business in SHAMS Free Zone—affordable setup, media focus, full ownership, and fast registration.

Expert SHAMS Free Zone Company Formation in UAE with Virtue Corporate Services

Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) is one of the fastest-growing free zones in the UAE, located in the Emirate of Sharjah. Launched in 2017, SHAMS aims to foster creativity and innovation, making it an attractive destination for startups, freelancers, media companies, and digital businesses. With cost-effective setup packages and a streamlined online registration process, SHAMS is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to establish a UAE presence with minimal overhead.

Business Activity
200+ business activities across sectors
Prime Location
Sharjah, UAE
Business
Over 12,000+ businesses registered
Setup Time
2–3 working days
Foreign Ownership
100% foreign ownership and full profit repatriation

Benefits of Setting Up a Business in SHAMS Free Zone

Ownership

100% Foreign Ownership – No need for a local partner

Setup

Cost-Effective Setup – One of the most affordable UAE Free Zones

Licensing Time

Quick License Issuance – Company formation in just 2–3 days

Investment Capital

No Paid-Up Capital Required – Start with zero capital investment

Virtual Business

Virtual Office Options – Ideal for remote and digital businesses

Tax

Zero Corporate and Personal Tax – Subject to UAE CT law exemptions

Business Activity

Wide Range of Activities – Media, tech, consultancy, trading & more

Visa

Eligibility for UAE Residency Visas – Up to 6 visas allowed

SHAMS Free Zone Business setup Cost (2025)

Starting a business in SHAMS Free Zone (Sharjah Media City) offers one of the most cost-effective pathways to company formation in the UAE. Designed for digital entrepreneurs, media professionals, and freelancers, SHAMS combines flexibility with affordability — making it ideal for startups looking to enter the UAE market with minimal investment.

Business Setup Options & Pricing
Basic License (No Visa)
  • Trade or service license
  • Sharjah business address
Starting from: AED 5,750
License with 1 Visa Package
  • Includes business license
  • Visa allocation & address documentation
Starting from: AED 11,500
Multi-Visa Package
  • Allows up to six residency visas
  • Supports scaling for small teams
Starting from: AED 18,000
General Trading License
  • Deal in multiple goods under one license
  • SHAMS business address
Starting from: AED 13,500

Types of Licenses Offered in SHAMS Free Zone

License Type Use Case

Service License

For consultancy, marketing, IT services, and professionals

Trading License

For buying and selling goods (import/export)

Media License

For media production, publishing, broadcasting, and digital media

Industrial License

For light manufacturing, processing, and packaging

Holding License

For holding shares or assets in other companies

Required Documents for SHAMS Company Formation

Entity Type Required Documents

FZE (Single Shareholder)

  • Passport copy of shareholder
  • Residence visa or entry stamp copy
  • Email and mobile number
  • Passport-size photo

FZCO (Multiple Shareholders)

  • Passport copies of all the shareholders
  • MOA (we assist you)
  • Business plan (if required)
  • Passport-size photos

Branch Office

  • Parent company license
  • Board resolution
  • MOA of parent company
  • Passport of Manager

Ready to Launch Your Business in SHAMS Free Zone?

Virtue Corporate Services is your trusted partner for seamless business setup in Meydan Free Zone. From license application to visa processing and bank account opening, we handle everything — so you can focus on growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) is one of the most budget-friendly free zones in the UAE for entrepreneurs. It offers competitive packages for various business types. For updated pricing details tailored to your business model, reach out to Virtue Corporate Services, your trusted partner in Shams company formation.

No, physical presence is not mandatory. You only need to have visited the UAE once if your SHAMS company formation includes a residence visa. If you are only applying for a trade license, you can form your company in Shams remotely with complete support from Virtue Corporate Services.

While SHAMS is open to global investors, certain nationalities may require prior approval. Once pre-approval is obtained, the chances of visa rejection are significantly minimized. Virtue Corporate Services can assist with pre-screening and smooth visa application processes.

No local sponsor is required. One of the major advantages of setting up a company in SHAMS is 100% foreign ownership. Virtue Corporate Services ensures your company is legally structured for full control and compliance.

The typical timeline for SHAMS company formation is 2 to 3 working days, provided all application forms and documents are submitted correctly. For visa-related processes, timelines vary based on approvals.

SHAMS supports a wide array of business activities, particularly in media, broadcasting, public relations, consultancy, and advertising. A variety of sub-categories are available, and Virtue Corporate Services can help you select the ideal activity based on your goals.

No. A physical office is not required. One of the main benefits of SHAMS company formation is the flexibility to operate with a virtual setup or flexi-desk, especially if your package includes visas.