Shams Free Zone Business Setup
Looking for an affordable, flexible, and dynamic free zone for your company? Shams Free Zone is the gateway for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and international businesses to set up and grow in the UAE.
Fast company registration | 100% foreign ownership | Cost-effective packages
Sharjah Media City (Shams Free Zone) is one of the most attractive business hubs in the UAE, especially for startups, freelancers, and SMEs. Launched in 2017, Shams Free Zone quickly became popular for its affordable setup packages, fast company registration process, and wide range of business activities permitted under its licenses.
Unlike traditional free zones that primarily focus on industrial activities, Shams Free Zone is versatile—you can register businesses in media, technology, consulting, trading, e-commerce, and professional services.
If you are exploring free zones across the emirate, also check our main guide: Free Zone Business Setup in Sharjah .
Why Choose Shams Free Zone for Business Setup?
Shams Free Zone is not only cost-effective but also highly flexible. It is designed to attract entrepreneurs from different industries and provide them with a hassle-free setup experience.
Key advantages include:
- 100% foreign ownership rights
- No personal or corporate income tax
- Affordable license and visa packages
- Easy scalability—upgrade or expand your business
- Virtual company formation option (no physical office required)
- Quick license issuance (within a few days)
- Wide range of activities under a single license
Tip: If you’re a startup or freelancer looking for a cost-friendly option in Sharjah, Shams Free Zone is one of the best choices compared to other free zones.
Step-by-Step Process of Business Setup in Shams Free Zone
Setting up your business in Shams Free Zone is simple with the support of Ideas Business Setup Expert.
Here’s a clear step-by-step process:
Business Activities and License Options
Shams Free Zone allows a wide variety of business activities under three main categories:
- Service License – For consultancy, media, professional, and IT services.
- Trading License – For import, export, and distribution of goods.
- Industrial License – For light manufacturing and production-related activities.
Popular activities include:
- Marketing & Media Services
- Consultancy Services
- E-commerce & Online Business
- Import & Export
- Software Development
- Creative & Freelance Professions
Shams Free Zone Business Setup Cost
One of the biggest advantages of Shams Free Zone is its affordable packages.
Here’s a breakdown of approximate costs (subject to updates by authorities):
| Package type | License + No Visa | License + 1 Visa | License + 3 Visas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Package | AED 6,000 | AED 8,000 | AED 11,500 |
| Standard Package | AED 8,500 | AED 10,500 | AED 14,000 |
| Premium Package | AED 11,000 | AED 13,000 | AED 17,500 |
For latest details and tailored packages, check our parent guide: Free Zone Business Setup in UAE .
Documents Required for Shams Free Zone Business Setup
To register your company in Shams Free Zone, you need minimal documentation:
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Passport-size photograph
- Completed application form
- Proof of residence (sometimes requested)
- Business plan (for specific activities)
Benefits of Choosing Shams Free Zone
- Affordable entry cost compared to other Sharjah free zones
- 100% repatriation of profits and capital
- Strategic location with access to UAE markets
- No currency restrictions
- Multiple activities under one license
- Support for entrepreneurs, SMEs, and freelancers
Comparison with Other Sharjah Free Zones
While Shams Free Zone is ideal for startups and freelancers, Sharjah also offers several specialized free zones:
- SAIF Zone Business Setup – Best for trade and logistics.
- Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone – Ideal for publishing, printing, and media.
- Hamriyah Free Zone Business Setup – Focused on industrial and manufacturing sectors.
- Sharjah Research Technology & Innovation Park Business Setup – Supports tech-driven and R&D companies.
- Sharjah Healthcare City Business Setup – Dedicated to healthcare professionals and companies.
Visa & Bank Account Assistance
When setting up in Shams Free Zone, you also get visa eligibility depending on your chosen package.
- Investor Visa – For company owners/shareholders.
- Employment Visa – For employees working in your company.
Our team also assists with:
Internal Links to Related Guides
To help you better understand, we’ve created dedicated guides:
No, Shams Free Zone offers virtual office options. This means you can run your business without a physical office, reducing costs significantly.
Yes, Shams Free Zone is one of the most affordable options for e-commerce and digital businesses. You can also combine multiple activities under one license.
Usually, the process takes 3–5 working days if all documents are in order. With our support, we ensure faster approvals and hassle-free setup.
