What Is SHAMS Free Zone?
SHAMS is founded on a legacy of rich history and visionary leadership. Spanning 2 million m², this dynamic media city is located in Al Messaned, Sharjah. It welcomes talent from around the world, providing a world-class infrastructure and essential resources to support the creation of high-quality content. With a strong focus on solution-oriented services, SHAMS facilitates business setup, licensing, and administrative support while offering state-of-the-art workspaces for companies to thrive.
Sharjah Media City (Shams) is the region's leading creative hub, strategically located just 10 minutes from Sharjah International Airport and 30 minutes from Dubai International Airport. Established in 2017 as a catalyst for innovation, Shams empowers entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs, companies, and freelancers with cost-effective business setup solutions.

Benefits of Sharjah Media City (Shams)?
100% Foreign Ownership
SHAMS allows foreign investors to own 100% of their company without requiring a local partner, subject to the applicable business activity and regulatory requirements.
Wide Range of Business Activities
Businesses can choose from a broad range of activities across media, creative services, consultancy, e-commerce, trading, and other sectors. Eligible activities can also be combined under the same business licence, subject to SHAMS requirements.
Flexible Company Setup Options
SHAMS provides different company setup options to suit the requirements of entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs, and established businesses. The appropriate setup can be selected based on the business activity, ownership structure, and operational requirements.
Quick and Simple Registration Process
SHAMS provides an online company formation process that allows applicants to select their licence and business activity, submit the required documents and payments, and complete the registration process without unnecessary administrative steps.
Flexible Office and Visa Options
SHAMS offers flexible workspace solutions and visa options based on the selected setup and applicable requirements. Businesses can choose an arrangement that suits their operational and staffing needs.
Limited Liability
Companies established in SHAMS benefit from limited liability, helping separate the financial liabilities of the company from the personal liabilities of its shareholders, subject to applicable laws and regulations.
Step-by-Step Process to Set Up a Company in Shams Free Zone
Setting up your company in Shams Free Zone is designed to be straightforward and entrepreneur-friendly. Here is a simplified breakdown of the process:
Choose Your Business Activity
The first step is selecting the business activity that aligns with your goals. Shams Free Zone supports a broad range of activities including media production, consultancy, e-commerce, trading, and more — often allowing multiple activities under a single license.
Select a License Type
Based on your chosen activity, you will need to apply for the appropriate license — typically a freelance permit, a business license, or a branch license. Shams offers competitively priced license packages suited for solo entrepreneurs as well as growing teams.
Choose a Company Name
Select a trade name that complies with UAE naming conventions — it must not include offensive language, references to religions, or names of ruling authorities without approval.
Submit Your Application and Documents
The application process can be completed entirely online. You will need to submit basic documents such as a passport copy, a completed application form, and details of the proposed business activity and shareholders.
Receive Your License
Once the documents are verified and the fee is paid, your Shams Free Zone license can typically be issued within 2 to 5 working days — making it one of the fastest company setup processes in the UAE
Apply for Visas (If Required)
After receiving your license, you can proceed with applying for investor visas, employee visas, or dependent visas based on your chosen package and workforce needs.
Why Choose Danburite for SHAMS Business Setup?
Affordable Business Setup
Cost-effective company formation solutions.
Limited Liability Protection
Companies operate with limited liability.
100% Foreign Ownership
Full control of your business.
Visa Flexibility
Up to 12 visas allocated on a shared desk facility.
Remote Incorporation
No physical presence required for company setup.
Diverse Business Activities
Multiple business activities under a single license.
No Physical Office Requirement
Operate your business remotely with a flexible workspace solution.
Shared Workspace
Offer an ideal setting for fostering a culture of collaboration that nurtures networking and maximises opportunities. With a modern and functional design, this aesthetically pleasing space is geared towards enhancing productivity among professionals.
100% Repatriation of Profits
No restrictions on transferring funds or repatriating profits.
Fast & Hassle-Free Setup
Company registration in as little as 1-2 days and simple and efficient documentation process.
Some of the most popular activities in SHAMZ
SHAMZ supports businesses across a diverse range of sectors, making it suitable for entrepreneurs, startups, freelancers, and established businesses. Some of the popular business activities include:
- Ecommerce
- General Trading
- Consultancy
- Freelancing
- Research and Development
- Design and Fashion
- Health and Wellness
- Events and Exhibitions
Start Your SHAMS Business Setup with Danburite
Contact Danburite Corporate now to streamline the initiation of your enterprise. Our commitment is to ensure your success, handling all requirements for establishing your business efficiently.
Don't miss the chance to establish your company in this prestigious location. Explore how Danburite Corporate can help turn your entrepreneurial aspirations into reality within SHAMZ Free Zone.
Danburite Corporate is not only ensuring your company set up, but also can be a one point of contact for your future operational requirements like PRO services, Bookkeeping and accounting services, Corporate Tax and VAT annual return, Legal assistance etc.
Don't delay; begin your journey to success by partnering with us. Contact Danburite Corporate today and let us assist in realizing your entrepreneurial dreams at SHAMZ Free Zone. Your path to success begins now.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to set up a business in SHAMS?
Costs generally start from a competitive base rate and vary depending on your business activity, licence type, and visa requirements.
Can I operate an online business through SHAMS?
Yes. SHAMS can be suitable for entrepreneurs and businesses operating online, including e-commerce, digital services, consultancy, and other permitted activities. The appropriate business activity and licence should be selected based on the nature of the online business.
Can a SHAMS company operate outside the UAE?
A SHAMS company can conduct permitted international business activities, subject to the nature of its licence, applicable UAE regulations, and the laws of the countries where it operates. Businesses should also consider any local licensing or tax obligations in their target markets.
What happens after receiving a SHAMS business licence?
After receiving the licence, the company may need to complete additional requirements depending on its setup, such as immigration and visa procedures, corporate banking, tax registrations, accounting, and ongoing regulatory compliance.
What documents are required to set up a company in SHAMS?
Requirements typically include passport copies of shareholders, a completed application form, proposed trade name options, and business activity details, with additional documents depending on the chosen structure.
Build Your Business Future in Sharjah Media City
Danburite Corp specializes in all aspects of company formation, management and liquidation.