SHAMS Free Zone Company Setup Guide

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SHAMS Free Zone Company Setup

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About SHAMS Free Zone

FZM Solutions provides administrative and advisory assistance only. All visas and official documents are issued exclusively by UAE authorities. We do not issue government documents.

Established in 2017, Sharjah Media City (Shams) Free Zone has quickly become one of the UAE’s most vibrant business hubs. Focused on fostering creativity, media, and entrepreneurship, Shams provides an affordable, flexible, and modern solution for business setup. While it is widely recognized as a hub for the media industry, Shams also supports a variety of sectors, including IT, marketing, and general trading. With cost-effective packages and virtual office options, Shams makes starting a business in the UAE both efficient and accessible.

Why Choose SHAMSFree Zone?

Full foreign ownership with complete control over your company
Freedom to repatriate all capital and profits
Cost-effective licensing packages
Access to more than 120 approved business activities
Fast and streamlined company formation process
Modern, fully digital business environment
Ability to include up to five business activities under a single license
Option to register a genuine LLC name without the “FZ” suffix

3 Simple Steps

Your SHAMS Free Zone company formation explained in three (3) simple steps

Step 1

Initial consultation

Step 2

Application preparation and submission

Step 3

Business license issuance

Other Free Zones You May Be Interested in

Here are a few recommendations that may interest you.

IFZA

Meydan

SPC

RAKEZ

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Business Activity:

Jurisdictions :

Office Space:

Number of owners

Number of visas

First name

Last name

Email address

Phone Number

Nationality

Timeline

Here is the step-by-step timeline for establishing a company in Shams Free Zone.

Day 1: Application Submission

Submit your signed business setup application and all required documents to officially initiate your SHAMS Free Zone company registration.

Days 2 to 5: Review and Verification

During this period, SHAMS Free Zone reserves your selected company name and reviews all submitted documents for approval.

Day 6: Trade License Issuance

Your SHAMS Free Zone trade license has been issued, and a digital copy is provided so you can start business activities immediately.

Day 1: Application Submission

Submit your signed business setup application and all required documents to officially initiate your SHAMS Free Zone company registration.

Days 2 to 5: Review and Verification

During this period, SHAMS Free Zone reserves your selected company name and reviews all submitted documents for approval.

Day 6: Trade License Issuance

Your SHAMS Free Zone trade license has been issued, and a digital copy is provided so you can start business activities immediately.

Note: Processing times may vary and are subject to compliance checks

SHAMS Free Zone Licenses

Shams Free Zone provides a variety of business licenses and activity options to help you select the ideal setup for your venture.

Service License: Designed for professional or consultancy-based businesses, this license is ideal for marketing agencies, IT service providers, and design firms.
Trading License: Enables companies to conduct buying, selling, import, and export of goods.
Industrial License: Allows businesses to engage in light manufacturing, assembly, or packaging activities, while benefiting from Shams’ efficient logistics support.

Shams Free Zone accommodates a broad spectrum of industries, allowing entrepreneurs and companies to operate across diverse sectors, including:

Media and creative industries
Printing and publishing
Technology and IT services
Real estate and financial services
Marketing and design
Construction
Hospitality and event management
Education and research
Maintenance services

Types of Business Entities

Before getting started, it’s important to understand the different business structures available in Dubai.

Image hover effect image — Free Zones

Benefit from 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified setup procedures.

The Steps to Set Up a SHAMS Company

Although Shams Free Zone is located in Sharjah, the company setup process is similar to that of Dubai Free Zones. You can begin by choosing the package that best suits your business needs. FZM offers a variety of packages for all Shams trade licenses and business activity types.

Choose Your Business Activity: We help you select the most suitable activity from over 120 approved options.
Select Your Company Name: Assistance is provided to ensure your company name complies with all regulations.
Submit Required Documents: Provide copies of passports, business plans, and other necessary forms.
Receive Initial Approval: Approval is generally granted digitally through the Shams Free Zone portal.
Sign Incorporation Documents: Complete the setup by signing all incorporation papers to obtain your license.
Apply for Visas and Open a Bank Account: The FZM team can assist you with visa processing and bank account setup.

Set Up Costs In The UAE

Unlock the Perks of UAE Residency

Obtaining a UAE residence visa through FZM offers numerous advantages, including the freedom to live and work in the country, access to world-class healthcare and education, and the opportunity to establish a secure future for you and your family

Flexibility

Live and work in the UAE without restrictions.

Tax Advantages

Live and work in the UAE without restrictions.

Global Reach

Explore international markets and expand your business horizons

Financial Growth

Access top-notch banking facilities and fuel your business growth.

Family Sponsorship

Sponsor your loved ones and provide them with a secure future

Visa Services

Hassle-free visa processing and renewal assistance

Documents Required for SHAMS Free Zone Company Formation

Individual Shareholder(s):

Copy of passport
Passport photo for every shareholder
Emirates ID (if the shareholder is a UAE resident)
Visa copy (if the shareholder is a UAE resident)

Corporate Shareholder(s):

Notarized and attested copy of board resolution
Notarized copy of memorandum and articles of association
Notarized copy of trade license
Notarized copy of certificate of incorporation

Note: Document requirements may vary based on the chosen business activity and the regulations of the respective licensing authority

Why Set Up with FZM?

FZM provides a range of unmatched advantages to help you secure your Dubai trade license:

Priority Licensing: Our team works directly with SHAMS authorities to ensure faster approvals and a streamlined licensing process.
Dedicated Support Manager: From company setup to renewals within a Dubai Free Zone, you can rely on our expertise and full support.
Comprehensive Business Solutions: Beyond company formation, we offer a complete suite of services including banking assistance, accounting and bookkeeping, and visa support—all in one place.

With over 1,000 clients successfully set up across the UAE, FZM empowers you to start and grow your business with confidence and peace of mind.

Key Features

These are the key features of SHAMS

Affordable Setup	Shams Free Zone provides one of the most budget-friendly options for company formation in the UAE.
Repatriation of Funds	All capital and profits can be fully repatriated without any deductions, giving you complete control over your funds.
Ownership	Non-UAE nationals can enjoy full ownership of their Shams Free Zone company with no local sponsor required.
Location	Operate from Sharjah, a vibrant and innovation-focused emirate located adjacent to Dubai.
Time Zone	Strategically located in the convenient GMT+04:00 time zone, facilitating global business operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of business activities can I register in Shams?

Shams Free Zone allows over 120 approved business activities, covering sectors such as media and creative industries, IT services, marketing and design, real estate, financial services, construction, education, and more.

How much does it cost to set up a company in Shams?

Shams offers one of the most affordable company formation options in the UAE. Costs vary depending on the type of license, business activity, and package you choose, including options with or without visas.

Do I need a physical office to establish my company in Shams?

No, a physical office is not mandatory. Shams provides flexible options, including co-working spaces and virtual offices, to help businesses operate cost-effectively.

Do I need a local sponsor to set up a company in Shams?

No local sponsor is required. Shams Free Zone allows 100% foreign ownership, so you can fully own and control your business.

How long does it take to set up a company in Shams?

The company formation process is quick and efficient. Typically, businesses can complete the setup within a few working days, depending on the chosen license and submitted documents.

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