Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) Free Zone Company Registration

SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) is a premier free trade zone established in 2017, strategically located near Sharjah International Airport, offering unparalleled opportunities for creative, media, and digital entrepreneurs. With digital company license packages at the lowest cost, the SHAMS free zone supports over 2,000+ business activities, making it ideal for startups and established businesses. Opting for company formation in SHAMS provides valuable benefits like 100% foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, low-cost business licenses and exemptions from corporate and personal taxes. 

Filings.ae’s expert team simplifies the company registration process in SHAMS free zone, delivering tailored solutions to help you thrive in this vibrant business hub. Reach out to our experts today to begin your journey toward successful company formation in Sharjah Media City.

Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)

Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) in the United Arab Emirates, established in 2017, is a rapidly expanding free zone dedicated to media and creative industries. This hub is designed to foster the growth of innovative business ideas, particularly benefiting entrepreneurs and startups in Sharjah. Obtaining a license from the Sharjah Media City Free Zone (SHAMS) Authority is mandatory for those interested in setting up a company in the SHAMS free zone. This license caters to many professionals and businesses, including companies, freelancers, and entrepreneurs, specifically targeting media, technology, and creative industries.

One of the key advantages of registering a company under SHAMS is the ability to complete the entire registration process remotely, making it highly accessible for international investors and business owners. Company registration is efficient, typically taking three to seven days. At filings.ae, comprehensive assistance is provided for the SHAMS Free zone Company Registration, offering end-to-end support to navigate the registration process smoothly.

Advantages Of Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)

The Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) offers several advantages for businesses, making it an attractive location for entrepreneurs and investors:

• Affordable Setup Costs: Setting up a business in SHAMS is an economical choice, offering competitive pricing that makes it an accessible option for entrepreneurs and businesses of various sizes. It has one of the cheapest free zone licenses in UAE.
• Diverse Business Activities: SHAMS free zone offers various business activities that cater to various industries. And, the key benefit is one can perform various business activities under a single license.
• Visa Options: You can obtain up to six visas under the shared desk option, enhancing the flexibility for staffing.
• No Deposit Requirement: There's no need to provide a deposit to start your business, reducing initial expenses.
• Flexible Investor Visa Age: There are no age restrictions for investor visas, broadening opportunities for diverse investors.
• Remote Setup: You can establish your company without being physically present in the UAE, offering convenience for international investors.
• Corporate Directors and Managers: There's the possibility of appointing corporate directors and managers, providing flexibility in company management.
• Simple and Fast Online Registration: The registration process is straightforward and quick, with an online system for ease of use.
• Rapid Document Issuance: Company documents are issued within a few days, speeding up the setup process.
• Limited Liability Companies: Businesses have limited liability, protecting personal assets.
• Strategic Location: SHAMS is ideally located, being just 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport and 5 minutes from Sharjah Airport, providing excellent connectivity.
• 100% Foreign Ownership: Foreign investors can own the entire company without local partners.
• 100% Duty Exemption: No taxes on importing or exporting goods.
• 100% Exemption from Business Taxes: No government taxes on business activities.
• 100% Repatriation: Full transfer of profits and capital to the investor's home country.
• Access to Workshops and Networking Events: SHAMS regularly hosts workshops and community sessions, providing businesses with networking opportunities and greater exposure in the industry.
• Remote Incorporation: Shareholders are not required to be physically present in the UAE to set up a new company, making the process convenient for international investors.
• Free Training Sessions: SHAMS offers free training sessions that help businesses enhance their skills and stay updated with industry trends.
• Exhibition Opportunities: Companies in SHAMS receive free space at major exhibitions like GITEX Expo and Seamless Middle East, providing a valuable platform for visibility and growth.

SHAMS Free Zone License Types

SHAMS Free Zone offers a variety of license types to cater to different business needs. Each license type is designed to suit specific business activities:

• Service and Consultancy License: This license is ideal for businesses producing, reproducing, transforming, and distributing services. It's particularly suitable for activities related to the media sector.
• Trading License: Suitable for businesses selling, importing, and exporting goods within the free zone. This license encompasses the movement of goods and wholesale and retail sales. It also covers services related to the goods being sold.
• Industrial License: This license is tailored for businesses that focus on the production, reproduction, transformation, and manufacturing of goods.
• Holding License: Designed for holding companies, this license allows for holding shares in other companies.

SHAMS Free zone License Packages

Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) offers flexible business license packages tailored to Services, Consultancy, and Trading activities, accommodating varying visa quotas and license durations. Investors can select packages based on the required visa quota, with options ranging from 0 to 6 visas. SHAMS also provides discounted rates for extended licenses, with 2, 3, and 5-year license packages offering reductions on total costs. A shared desk facility is included with visa packages, though the no-visa package does not cover Immigration cards or facility expenses. These options allow investors to customize their licenses according to business needs and benefit from multi-year discounts for long-term commitments.

Business Activities in SHAMS

SHAMS offers an extensive selection of over 120 business activities, providing flexibility to combine different activities under a single license. This versatility caters to a variety of business models across multiple sectors. Here are some of the key business activities available:

Media-Related Activities:

• Manufacturing: Printing, reproduction of recorded media.
• Information and Communication: Publishing, software publishing, motion picture, video and television program production, sound recording, music publishing, programming and broadcasting activities, telecommunications, computer programming, consultancy, and information services.
• Professional, Scientific, and Technical Activities: Advertising, market research, creative agency activities, and other specialised design and photographic activities.
• Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation: Creative arts, entertainment activities, e-Sports & gaming, media training.

Wholesale & Retail Trade:

• Wholesale trade of various goods, including agricultural materials, food, beverages, household goods, and machinery.
• Retail trade in specialised and non-specialized stores, including food, beverages, cultural and recreation goods, and automotive fuel.

Manufacturing:

• Repair and installation of machinery and equipment.

Construction:

• Specialized construction activities like electrical and plumbing installations.
• Transportation and Storage: Warehousing and support for postal and courier activities.
• Accommodation and Food Service Activities: Restaurants, mobile food service, and event catering.
• Financial and Insurance Activities: Financial services, insurance, reinsurance, and activities auxiliary to financial services and insurance.
• Real Estate Activities: Real estate activities with owned or leased property and development.
• Professional, Scientific, and Technical Activities: Legal and accounting, management consultancy, architectural, engineering, and technical testing.
• Administrative and Support Service Activities: Rental and leasing activities, employment activities, travel agency and tour operator services, office administrative and support services.
• Education: Educational support activities and other education services.
• Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation: Sports and amusement and recreation activities
• Other Service Activities: Activities of membership organisations, repair of computers and personal goods, and other personal service activities.
• Services & Consultancy: A wide range of consultancy services across different sectors.

Company Types in SHAMS Freezone

SHAMS Freezone permits the establishment of two primary company types:

• SHAMS Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• SHAMS Branch Company

1. SHAMS Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A SHAMS Limited Liability Company (LLC) functions as an autonomous entity where the company's structure distinctly separates the responsibilities and assets of the owners and shareholders from the company itself. This means that the company's contractual or otherwise liabilities are solely the company's responsibilities and not of its shareholders. Similarly, the company's assets are exclusively owned by the company, not the shareholders.

Benefits of a SHAMS LLC:

• Operates as an independent entity
• Eligible to apply for various licenses
• Can sponsor employees
• Permitted to establish a business bank account

Requirements for Establishing a SHAMS LLC:

To establish an LLC in the SHAMS Freezone, the following documents and procedures are required:

• Identity documents for Shareholders, Managers, and Directors
• Completion and submission of an onboarding form via the SHAMS Portal
• Submission of the Ultimate Beneficial Owner form through the SHAMS Portal
• A comprehensive business plan

SHAMS Compliance may request additional documents as needed

2. SHAMS Branch Company

A SHAMS branch is a subsidiary of an existing parent company. This branch is not a separate legal entity but an extension of the parent company. Consequently, all profits, benefits, and gains accrued by the branch are considered as those of the parent company. Similarly, any costs, expenses, debts, and liabilities incurred by the branch are the parent company's responsibility.

Advantages of Establishing a SHAMS Branch:

• Eligibility to obtain various licenses
• Authorization to sponsor employees
• Permission to open a business bank account.

Setting Up a SHAMS Branch: Required Documentation

To establish a branch within the jurisdiction of SHAMS, the following documents and procedures are necessary:

• Certificate of Incorporation of the parent company
• Articles of Incorporation of the parent company
• Share register and business license of the parent company
• Certificate of Good Standing or Certificate of Incumbency, issued within the last 90 days
• A board resolution from the parent company
• Identification documents of the ultimate beneficial owners, managers, and directors
• Onboarding form, to be submitted through the SHAMS Portal
• Ultimate Beneficial Owner form, also submitted via theSHAMS Portal
• A detailed business plan
• Any additional documents as might be required by SHAMS Compliance

Facilities Available in SHAMS Free Zone

SHAMS Free Zone provides four tailored facility options to meet diverse business needs:

1. Dedicated Desk

This assigned workspace allows entrepreneurs to focus on core business tasks while benefiting from networking opportunities. The space is adaptable, making it suitable for work, meetings, and collaboration. With a modern, functional design, it provides an ideal environment for scaling up operations.

2. Shared Desk

A cost-effective option, the Shared Desk facility is a flexible, open workspace that encourages interaction among like-minded professionals. Users can select available spots without a fixed desk, making it ideal for those frequently attending off-site meetings. SHAMS offers flexible daily, monthly, or yearly rental options with attractive business license packages.

3. Dedicated Office

This lockable, private office setup is designed for individuals or small teams, providing both privacy and collaboration space. The Dedicated Office supports focused business operations and enables entrepreneurs to work strategically, especially if aiming to build a team and focus on growth.

4. Shared Office

The Shared Office offers more privacy than a shared desk and is a budget-friendly choice for those wanting to reduce setup and rental costs. It combines affordability with the benefits of a professional, collaborative environment, ideal for networking and cost-effective growth.

SHAMS also offers fully customisable spaces and Shell & Core Offices, allowing investors to personalise their workspace to support their strategic business needs.

Types of Visas

In setting up a business in the SHAMS Free Zone, entrepreneurs must apply for visas before or during the business setup process. Each company operating within this zone can apply for up to six visas. These visas are renewable every three years, ensuring continuity for business operators and their employees. Two primary visa types are available for those establishing a business in the SHAMS Free Zone:

• Investor or Partner Visa: This visa is tailored for entrepreneurs or investors who are setting up or investing in businesses within the free zone. It recognises the role of these individuals as key stakeholders in their respective companies.
• Employment Visa: Aimed at employees of companies operating within the SHAMS Free Zone, this visa facilitates the legal working status of staff hired by businesses in the zone.

An important requirement for obtaining resident visas under SHAMS Free Zone is the mandate of having health insurance. Applicants must either possess health insurance or be assured that they will obtain it within ten months of applying for the visa.

Capital Required for Company Setup in SHAMS

For companies aiming to incorporate at SHAMS Freezone Authority in the United Arab Emirates, a specific capital requirement must be met. The minimum capital required to establish a company in this free zone is AED 150,000. This capital is divided into shares to structure the company's equity.

The total number of shares that make up this capital is 150, each with a value of AED 1,000.

Procedure for SHAMS Freezone Company Registration

The procedure for registering a company in the SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) Freezone involves several steps:

• Business Activity Selection: Choose the type of business activity or activities your company will engage in.
• Company Name Approval: Select a company name and get it approved by SHAMS authorities. The name should not be already in use or reserved.
• Application Submission: Fill out and submit the application form for company registration to the SHAMS authorities, along with the required documents. This can often be done online.
• Document Provision: Provide the necessary documents, such as passport copies of shareholders and managers, business plan (if required), and NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the current visa sponsor (if applicable).
• Payment of Fees: Pay the necessary fees for registration, licensing, and any other required services.
• License Issuance: Once your application is approved and fees are paid, SHAMS will issue your business license.
• Post-Registration Formalities: After receiving your license, you may need to complete other formalities like visa processing (if applicable), opening a bank account, and obtaining any additional permits or approvals related to your business activity.
• Occupancy Agreement: If you require physical office space, you must sign an occupancy agreement.

Documents Receivable After Incorporation

After registering a company in SHAMS, you receive these important documents:

• Certificate of Incorporation: Official proof of your company's formation.
• License: Shows your company's details like name, address, and business type.
• Memorandum of Association: Document outlining your company's rules.
• Share Certificate: Proof of company share ownership.
• Occupancy Agreement: A lease agreement showing your company's business location.

Timelines to Obtain Entry Permit & Residence Visa

The processing times for Entry Permits, Residence Visas, Entry Visa Cancellations, and Residence Visa Cancellations in the SHAMS Free Zone vary based on the chosen service level:

• Entry Permit

• Normal: 3 - 4 working days

• Priority: 1 working day

• Residence Visa

• Normal: 3 - 4 working days

• Priority: 1 working day

• Residence Visa Cancellation (Investor/Partner/Employee)

• Normal: 3 - 4 working days

• Priority: 1 - 2 working days

• Entry Visa Cancellation (Investor/Partner/Employee)

• Normal: 3 - 4 working days

• Priority: 1 - 2 working days

• Resubmission for Entry Permit / Residence Visa / Cancellation

• Normal: 3 - 4 working days

These timelines provide flexibility for applicants, allowing them to choose between standard and expedited processing based on urgency.

Streamline SHAMS Freezone Company Registration with Filings.ae

At Filings.ae, we specialise in assisting entrepreneurs and businesses with the registration process in the SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) Freezone. Our team provides expert guidance through every process step, from selecting the appropriate business activity and securing the company name approval to applying with all the necessary documentation. We handle post-registration formalities, including visa processing and UAE bank account opening. With our support, you can complete the entire registration process efficiently, even remotely, and start your business venture in this dynamic and business-friendly environment.