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Starting a business in the UAE has become significantly easy due to a new wave of government laws and regulations designed to enhance accessibility. The country offers numerous trade-free zones across its emirates, fostering entrepreneurship and making business setup more seamless and profitable. Among these, SHAMS Free Zone stands out as a premier destination for creative and media companies.

SHAMS Media City catalyzes the growth and success of businesses in the media, technology, and creative industries. With a wide range of business activities, SHAMS Free Zone company formation provides entrepreneurs with a streamlined setup process, cost-effective licensing options, and access to world-class infrastructure. Designed as a global media hub, SHAMS offers cutting-edge facilities and services that support business innovation and expansion. With a commitment to fostering creativity and entrepreneurship, SHAMS Free Zone business setup is an ideal choice for individuals seeking a dynamic and supportive environment in the UAE.

Why Choose SHAMS Business Setup for Your Venture?

The following are the advantages of SHAMS company formation:

Setting up a Business on a Budget

You can start your business setup in SHAMS for as little as AED 5,000. SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) offers an affordable and efficient way to establish your company with minimal costs and hassle. With a wide range of business activities and benefits, SHAMS is an ideal choice for entrepreneurs and startups in the UAE.

Tax Exemptions

One of the major reasons that attract investors for company formation in SHAMS is the exemption from individual income tax and other corporate taxes. If you are considering establishing your company in this jurisdiction, you can benefit from these endless tax advantages.

100% Business Ownership

As an entrepreneur, you can own 100% of a company and transfer all revenues to your home country. The company setup in SHAMS offers full ownership rights, tax advantages, and ease of business operations, making it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs looking to establish a business in the UAE while retaining complete financial control.

Various Visa Options

The restrictions on obtaining a business visa have been lifted at Media City, creating an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs. Under the SHAMS Free Zone company setup, entrepreneurs can secure six permits, making it easier to establish and grow their businesses in a thriving commercial hub with enhanced flexibility and accessibility.

An Extensive Range of Activities

This jurisdiction is known for offering a diverse range of business activities and providing multiple licenses to support various industries. With SHAMS Free Zone company formation, you can benefit from a streamlined setup process, cost-effective solutions, and a business-friendly environment. This makes it an ideal choice for startups and established companies looking to expand in the UAE.

Types of Companies You Can Form in SHAMS

The following are the company structures you can choose from for your SHAMS free zone business setup:

  • Limited Liability Company (LLC)
  • The Limited Liability Company is the most popular incorporation structure for SHAMS business setup. It provides adaptable management structures and liability arrangements. Notably, there is no minimum capital requirement, making it an appealing choice for entrepreneurs.
  • Sole Proprietorship
  • A sole proprietorship is a business owned and operated by a single individual. While different structures for SHAMS company formation involve more steps, sole proprietorships are easy to establish. The owner has unlimited liability, putting their assets at risk. This structure is best suited for freelancers or small businesses with limited risk exposure.
  • Branch Company
  • There are two types of branch companies that you can establish in the SHAMS. One is the branch of a foreign company where you already have a pre-existing company outside the UAE, and you setup an extension of it in SHAMS. On the other hand, with a branch of a UAE company, you proceed with business setup in SHAMS for an already existing UAE company.
  • Available Licenses for Company Formation in SHAMS

    You can obtain the following licenses and permits for your company setup in SHAMS:

    Service and Consulting License

    This license type applies to businesses engaged in service creation, replication, transformation, and delivery. Its primary objectives are the use of commodities and the provision of services. Additionally, this license is exclusively granted for media-related activities. For those seeking these types of company formation in SHAMS, this license is essential for media-focused enterprises.

    Trading License

    The company set up in the SHAMS Free Zone includes a license that permits the sale of goods within the free zone and the import and export of products. This license also covers product transportation, wholesale and retail, and service provision, facilitating seamless trade and business operations within the region.

    Industrial License

    A Shams Free Zone company setup industrial license permits the creation, manufacturing, transformation, and re-creation of various commodities. This license enables businesses to engage in industrial activities, including production, processing, and modification of goods, fostering innovation and efficiency within Sharjah Media City’s dynamic business environment.

    Holding License

    This license applies to holding company operations, allowing businesses to own stock in other companies. However, holding corporations are restricted from conducting any other commercial activities. For entrepreneurs interested in SHAMS Free Zone company formation, this structure offers investment opportunities while ensuring compliance with regulations that prohibit direct business operations beyond equity ownership.

    Characteristics of SHAMS Free Zone Business Setup

    Below are the characteristics of SHAMS company formation:

    Differentiator 

    Characteristic Trait

    Ownership

    100% foreign ownership

    Company Type

    Limited Liability Company (LLC)

    Minimum no. of shareholders

    One

    Minimum no. of mangers

    One

    Accounting and bookkeeping requirements

    No

    Renewal date

    Annual date of Incorporation

    Corporate taxation

    0%

    Types of activities

    Commercial, media and service, or consultancy

    VAT Percentage

    0%

    Duty for import-export

    0%

    Duration for company formation

    2 to 3 working days

    Paid up capital

    Depends on your business activities

    Requirement of NOC

    No

    Requirement of a local partner

    No

    Visa type

    Investor and employment visa

    Steps for Company Formation in SHAMS

    For your company setup in SHAMS, follow these steps:

    Business Setup
    Step-1:Select a Business Activity
    SHAMS Free Zone offers a wide range of business activities to choose from. In the first step, you must select your preferred business activity. Once selected, you can proceed with the necessary steps for company setup. This streamlined process ensures a smooth experience when proceeding with the SHAMS Free Zone company setup, making it an ideal location for entrepreneurs.
    Step-2:Choose a Name for Your Business
    When selecting a business name, it is critical to comply with all local rules and regulations. Ensure that the name you choose for your Shams Free Zone company formation adheres to the guidelines. Avoid using offensive language, religious references, or anything that conflicts with UAE laws.
    Step-3:Fill up the Application
    Complete the application form and submit the necessary registration documentation to the relevant authorities. Ensure that all required paperwork is correct and complete. Adequate documentation will help avoid delays in setting up your SHAMS Free Zone business.
    Step-4:Submit an Application to Obtaining a Business License

    Once your SHAMS business setup is complete, you will have to apply for a business license. Submit the required documents to the respective authorities to obtain your business license. You will need to submit the following documents:

    • Passport copy
    • Entry stamp or visa copy
    • Three name suggestions for the company
    • Passport-sized photograph
    Step-5:Set up a Bank Account
    Once you have obtained your license and completed your SHAMS company formation, you will have to open a corporate account. This account will help you conduct daily business transactions for your company.

    Documents Required for Business Setup in SHAMS

    You will be required to submit the following documents for company formation in SHAMS:

    • Passport photocopy of each shareholder
    • Photocopy of each stockholder’s passport
    • Emirates Identification Card (if the shareholder is a UAE resident)
    • Copy of the visa (if the shareholder is a UAE resident)
    • A copy of the board resolution notarized and certified 
    • A copy of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, both notarized 
    • A notarized copy of your business license
    • A notarized copy of the incorporation certificate
    documents-required

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    Industries We Serve in SHAMS

    We can help you in the following industries for your SHAMS Free Zone company formation:

    Toursim

    Real Estate

    Software

    Technology

    Why Choose BSW?

    Business Setup Worldwide (BSW) has transformed the face of over 7000 businesses within a period of 8 years. Our unparalleled expertise in company formation, taxes, accounting, and IP protections speaks for itself. Contact us today for a free consultation!

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    Companies Incorporated

    14 +

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    Offices Worldwide

    30 +

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    Client Testimonials

    Working with the BSW team was a game-changer for my business. I had no idea where to start when setting up my company in the SHAMS Free Zone. They guided me through every step of the paperwork and approval process and even helped me choose the ideal free zone. The entire process was quick, and I had my business up and running in no time. I highly recommend their services!

    Aubrey Orr

    I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The team at Business Setup Worldwide made setting up my e-commerce business in the SHAMS Free Zone seamless. They handled all the legal aspects and took care of the paperwork, which saved me so much time. Their expertise in navigating the system was invaluable. I’m grateful for their support.

    Elton Burke

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What does the SHAMS free zone visa license cost?

    In SHAMS, the zero visa license starts at AED 5,750.

    What are the facilities available in the SHAMS free zone?

    The facilities available in the SHAMS free zone are

    • Dedicated desk '
    • Shared desk
    • Dedicated office
    • Shared office

     

    Do I need a local sponsor to set up my business in the SHAMS Free Zone?

    There are no requirements for a local sponsor to start a business in the SHAMS Free Zone.

    Is it mandatory to be physically present in SHAMS while starting a business?

    You are not required to be in the UAE to establish your business in SHAMS.

    Can I open a company in SHAMS without a visa?

    Yes, you can open a company in SHAMS without a visa.

    Terms and Conditions

    *Duration is subject to the constraints of the due diligence procedure.

    **This would refer to the corporate tax of the company, wherein the operation of the company would take place outside the country of incorporation.

    ***The required documents must be provided for every individual related to the company.

    Disclaimer: The content on this website should not be taken as a contractual commitment or a warranty. Our services conditions are subject to BSW terms and conditions.