What exactly is SHAMS Free Zone?

SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) is a rapidly growing UAE free zone designed specifically for media, creative, tech, and service-based businesses. It offers a highly flexible and cost-effective environment for entrepreneurs globally.

Is SHAMS located in Dubai or Sharjah?

SHAMS is Sharjah Media City, based in the Emirate of Sharjah. Where you live does not change the activity or operating permissions of the company.

How many visas can I obtain with a SHAMS license?

Visa allocation depends on the selected company setup, facility and applicable immigration conditions. Confirm the permitted allocation before planning recruitment.

Do I need to deposit share capital?

Confirm the current capital and evidence requirements for the selected SHAMS company structure before filing. A company’s nominal capital and the requirement to deposit it are separate questions.

Will my SHAMS company pay corporate tax?

SHAMS companies should assess registration and tax obligations under the applicable UAE corporate tax rules. Free zone status alone does not establish eligibility for qualifying treatment.

How long does the setup process take?

Timing depends on completed documentation, the selected activity and any external approvals. Licensing and residence visa procedures are separate stages.

Sharjah Media City SHAMS Free Zone Company Setup Guide

SHAMS Free Zone Company Setup Guide 2026

Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) is the creative epicenter of Sharjah. Built for innovative digital creators, media powerhouses, service professionals, and modern ecommerce businesses.

Free Consultation

Sharjah Media City

A Sharjah setting for creative work and enterprise

Sharjah Media City brings media production and entrepreneurship into the same free zone environment. Its creative focus makes SHAMS relevant to content creators, production businesses and agencies, alongside its broader standard business activity offering.

The authority’s media facilities include podcast recording and filming environments. Access to these facilities should be discussed separately from incorporation: the business license, activity approval and facility booking serve different purposes.

Still deciding how to structure the application? Review the company setup planning guide, then confirm the requirements of your chosen authority.

Keep production needs in the setup plan

Identify the media activity, equipment and spaces your business needs before selecting a package. Regulated work may also need approval from the relevant authority.

Official Packages & Pricing

SHAMS Free Zone
Company Setup Packages

Transparent, all-inclusive packages with 100% digital setup and zero hidden charges.

Zone Features

What sets SHAMS apart

Creative and media environment

A free zone whose remit includes media entrepreneurship and content production.

Production facilities

Podcast and filming facilities support creative work, subject to access and booking arrangements.

Standard business licensing

SHAMS also offers standard business activities alongside its media focus.

Business Activities

License options in SHAMS

The selected activity determines the license category and any external approvals. Confirm the activity wording before applying.

Media activities

Choose the listed activity for content production, publishing or other approved media work.

Professional services

For approved consultancy, agency and other service activities.

Commercial activities

For permitted trading and online business activities that fit the authority’s list.

Investor Benefits

Advantages of SHAMS

Sharjah Media City creative setting

Media and standard business activity choices

Digital application coordination

Podcast and filming facility options

Creative workshops and community activities

External approvals identified for regulated work

In Just 4 Quick Steps

Establish, Launch & Grow
Business Setup in the UAE

Step 1

Consultation

We evaluate your business goals, target markets, and activities to recommend the optimal Free Zone or Mainland setup structure.

Step 2

Documentation

We help organize the identification, company documents and application paperwork required for your selected route.

Step 3

Submission & Approval

We help coordinate the application and any additional approvals. Processing depends on the authority, activity and document readiness.

Step 4

License Issuance

After approval, receive the relevant license and company documents. Visa and banking applications follow separate eligibility and review processes.

Launch Your Business

Start Your Journey

Ready to Launch Your Company in SHAMS Free Zone?

Speak directly with an authorized UAE free zone specialist today.

Call +971 4 879 5798

Request for Our Free Consultation

Or reach us directly.

+971 4 879 5798 Request a consultation info@fastcompanysetup.com