SHAMS Partner
Launch your SHAMS company with a fast, affordable setup.
SHAMS free zone is a smart choice for founders, creatives, and service firms that want a cost-efficient UAE base with easy market access.
About SHAMS
Build your next chapter with SHAMS.
Sharjah Media City Free Zone (SHAMS) was established in January 2016 by His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, through Emiri Decree No. 10 of 2016. Based in Sharjah, the cultural capital of the UAE, SHAMS began operations in 2017 to support media, digital, and creative industries. The community is designed for entrepreneurs to collaborate, innovate, and scale. We support complete SHAMS company formation from planning to licensing.
SHAMS offers specialized facilities and licensing for creative and media-led businesses. It is a modern free zone built around innovation, with a strong network of founders, studios, and service providers. While it follows UAE and Sharjah regulations, SHAMS has administrative autonomy for licensing and media-related approvals. This environment encourages local content production and talent development across the region.
SHAMS commonly cites a minimum share capital of AED 100,000, but the deposit is typically optional. If you choose the capital option, SHAMS can issue a bank letter to open the company account under your proposed entity name. After license issuance, the capital can be used for operations. Selecting this option may add extra time to the incorporation process.
In some cases a manager must be appointed, and the role may require a residence visa sponsored by the free zone. To keep the visa active, the manager should enter the UAE at least once every six months.
Benefits of Company Setup in SHAMS
Flexible, budget-friendly, and investor-ready.
- Up to six visas available with a shared desk package.
- No initial deposit required for many packages.
- Investor visa options with no age cap.
- Ability to appoint corporate directors.
- Limited liability structure for companies.
- Full repatriation of profits and capital.
- 100% foreign ownership.
- No personal or corporate income tax.
- Convenient location near Sharjah Airport and Dubai.
Facilities in Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)
Designed for modern media and creative teams.
Sharjah Media City offers four facility options: shared desk, dedicated desk, dedicated office, and shared office space. These options are designed to match different team sizes and budgets as the SHAMS community grows.
Shared workspaces create a collaborative environment in SHAMS. It is a practical choice for startups that want to learn from and connect with other founders. Coworking helps ideas move faster.
Structuring of Business Operations in the Freezones
Pick the legal structure that fits your goals.
Free zone operations can be set up using one of the following structures:
SHAMS LLC
With one or up to 50 shareholders.
Part or branch of a foreign company
Extend your overseas entity into the UAE market.
Part of a locally incorporated company
Operate as a branch of a UAE-based entity.
Key Features of SHAMS Company Setup
- SHAMS LLC can be formed with one to 50 shareholders.
- Shareholders may be individuals or corporate entities.
- Typical capital requirement is around AED 100,000, with deposits often optional and usable for operations after licensing.
- Audited annual accounts are generally not required for submission to the free zone authority.
- Entities operate under SHAMS free zone rules and regulations.
Branch Office Highlights
- A branch operates as an extension of the parent company.
- No minimum capital requirement.
- Audited financials are typically not required by the free zone authority.
- No special implementation rules beyond standard free zone regulations.
- Only one manager is required.
Sharjah Media City Free Zone is positioned as a hub for media, technology, and creative businesses. It welcomes startups and established firms that want a UAE presence with flexible workspace options. Choose a setup that supports your business goals and growth plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers about SHAMS free zone company formation
Location
SHAMS offices in Sharjah.
Meet our team in Sharjah and get end-to-end support for SHAMS company formation.
Get in Touch Today
Our experts in business setup, accounting, and auditing are ready to provide tailored solutions and answer all your questions.
Visit Our Office in Dubai
Meet our experts at Al Shamil Zone Business Men Services and get professional guidance for company setup in the UAE.
