Sharjah Media City Free Zone (Shams) is a free zone in the emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, that is dedicated to the media and creative industries. Shams was established to provide a conducive environment for media companies, startups, and entrepreneurs to operate and grow their businesses.

Full Control over Your Business: Enjoy complete ownership and control of your enterprise, as Shams permits entrepreneurs to have 100% foreign ownership.

• Tax-Advantaged Environment : Shams offers a tax-friendly landscape with zero personal income taxes, corporate taxes, and import/export duties, providing a favorable financial climate.
• Profit Repatriation : You can freely repatriate all capital and profits earned by your company, ensuring you retain your financial gains.
• Cutting-Edge Infrastructure : Benefit from state-of-the-art infrastructure equipped with high-speed internet connectivity and modern office facilities.
• Tailored Business Licenses : Shams provides a diverse range of business licenses to suit the specific nature of your media or creative venture, offering flexibility and adaptability.

In Shams, you have the opportunity to establish and grow your media and creative business in a supportive environment that offers various financial and operational advantages, enabling your entrepreneurial aspirations to thrive.

Cost-Effective Company Formation :

Shams Free Zone offers some of the most cost-effective company registration options in the UAE, with an emphasis on affordability for media-related activities. The media license at Shams Free Zone is notably one of the most budget-friendly options available in the UAE.

Freelancer-Friendly Set-Up :

Shams Free Zone extends specialized packages at subsidized rates tailored for freelancers looking to engage in media-related activities. These packages encompass the cost of free zone company setup, licensing, office space leasing, one visa allocation, immigration card issuance, and e-channel registration, among other benefits.

Flexible Company Formation :

Shams Free Zone accommodates both new media businesses and the expansion of existing media enterprises.

For those establishing a new business in Shams Free Zone, the option of forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is available. This offers the advantage of limiting liability to the investment made in the company.

Media companies with an established presence, whether within or outside the UAE, can seamlessly open a branch office in Shams Free Zone. This streamlined approach facilitates the expansion of media companies in a media-friendly jurisdiction.

Specialized Facilities and Film Commission :

Shams Free Zone is dedicated to providing tailored facilities that cater to the unique requirements of media businesses, fostering a creative environment. Notably, Shams Free Zone is launching an ‘influencers platform’ designed to facilitate a digital marketplace and enhance interactions between companies and social media influencers for promotional campaigns.

Shams Free Zone aims to position itself as a preferred destination for film shooting by establishing the Shams Film Commission. This initiative leverages the picturesque landscape of Sharjah to offer captivating backdrops for film and media projects.

Educational Initiatives :

Shams Free Zone organizes workshops, seminars, and exhibitions, enriching the knowledge base of company owners, particularly in the realm of media. These events cover a range of media-related topics, including photography, film, and cinematography.

Regular seminars featuring experts from the media industry provide valuable insights and networking opportunities. Shams Free Zone also extends invitations to business community sessions, allowing company owners to network and collaborate effectively.

Shams Free Zone’s strategic approach is tailored to meet the specific needs of media companies, offering a conducive environment for growth and creativity.

List of the key documents typically needed to set up a company in Sharjah Media City Free Zone (Shams):

• Business Plan : A comprehensive document outlining your company’s objectives, activities, and financial projections.
• Trade Name Reservation : Confirmation o….f your chosen business name’s uniqueness.
• Passport Copies : Copies of passports of shareholders and managers.
• No-Objection Certificate (NOC) : If applicable, a NOC from the sponsor or employer.
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) : A legal document outlining the company’s structure and operations.
• Office Space Agreement : Proof of leased office space within Shams, a mandatory requirement.
• Legal Approvals and Permits : Any necessary clearances or approvals for specific business activities.
• License Application Forms : Properly filled and signed application forms.
• Bank Reference Letter : A reference letter from a bank confirming your financial stability.
• Bank Account Details : Information about the corporate bank account opened for the company.
• Visa Application Documents : Passport copies, photographs, and relevant forms for visa applications, if needed.
• Immigration and Labor Cards : Documents related to employee immigration and labor cards, if applicable.

It’s crucial to ensure that all documents are accurately prepared and submitted in compliance with Shams and UAE regulations to facilitate a smooth company formation process. Keep in mind that specific requirements may vary depending on the nature of your business and other factors. Working with a business consultant or service provider experienced in Shams can help streamline the process and ensure that you meet all necessary requirements.

Setting up a company in the Sharjah Media City Free Zone (Shams) involves several steps. Here’s an overview of the process:

• Choose Your Business Activity : Decide on the type of business activity you plan to engage in. Shams offers various business licenses to suit different activities, such as services, trading, and industrial activities.
• Business Plan :Prepare a comprehensive business plan that outlines your company’s objectives, activities, and financial projections.
• Trade Name Reservation : Choose a unique and suitable trade name for your company. Submit the name for approval to Shams, and upon approval, you’ll receive a name reservation certificate.
• License Application : Complete the license application form, specifying the type of license you need based on your business activity. You’ll also need to fill in any required application forms for visas, if applicable.
• Document Submission : Gather and submit the necessary documents, which typically include passport copies of shareholders and managers, a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the current sponsor if you are in the UAE, and other documents specific to your business type. Ensure all documents are in compliance with Shams and UAE regulations.
• Office Space Selection : Choose and secure office space within Shams, as this is a mandatory requirement for company setup. Lease agreements and proof of office space are typically required during the application process.
• Review and Approval : Shams will review your application and documents. Once your application is approved, you will receive a notification from Shams.
• License Issuance : Upon approval, Shams will issue your business license, allowing you to commence your operations.
• Visa Processing (If Needed) : If you require visas for yourself or employees, you can apply for them through Shams authorities. This process may include entry permits, visa stamping, and labor card issuance.
• Bank Account Opening : Open a corporate bank account with a local or international bank, ensuring that you meet any minimum capital requirements if applicable.

The timeline for Shams Free Zone company setup can vary depending on the complexity of your business and the efficiency of document preparation. In general, it can take several weeks to a few months to complete the process. It’s essential to work with a business setup service provider or consultant experienced in Shams to ensure compliance with all

regulations and streamline the process. Additionally, staying updated on any changes in procedures or requirements is crucial for a smooth setup experience.

We at Corpin Consultants, possess in-depth expertise in local regulations, our primary focus is to streamline the company formation process for entrepreneurs and businesses. We are committed to providing customized solutions to cater to diverse business needs, making us a trusted partner for those looking to establish their presence in their chosen free zone or main land. For more details, get on a free consultation call with us today!