Expert SHAMS Free Zone Company Formation in UAE with Virtue Corporate Services
Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) is one of the fastest-growing free zones in the UAE, located in the Emirate of Sharjah. Launched in 2017, SHAMS aims to foster creativity and innovation, making it an attractive destination for startups, freelancers, media companies, and digital businesses. With cost-effective setup packages and a streamlined online registration process, SHAMS is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to establish a UAE presence with minimal overhead.
Benefits of Setting Up a Business in SHAMS Free Zone
100% Foreign Ownership – No need for a local partner
Cost-Effective Setup – One of the most affordable UAE Free Zones
Quick License Issuance – Company formation in just 2–3 days
No Paid-Up Capital Required – Start with zero capital investment
Virtual Office Options – Ideal for remote and digital businesses
Zero Corporate and Personal Tax – Subject to UAE CT law exemptions
Wide Range of Activities – Media, tech, consultancy, trading & more
Eligibility for UAE Residency Visas – Up to 6 visas allowed
SHAMS Free Zone Business setup Cost (2025)
Starting a business in SHAMS Free Zone (Sharjah Media City) offers one of the most cost-effective pathways to company formation in the UAE. Designed for digital entrepreneurs, media professionals, and freelancers, SHAMS combines flexibility with affordability — making it ideal for startups looking to enter the UAE market with minimal investment.
- Trade or service license
- Sharjah business address
- Includes business license
- Visa allocation & address documentation
- Allows up to six residency visas
- Supports scaling for small teams
- Deal in multiple goods under one license
- SHAMS business address
Types of Licenses Offered in SHAMS Free Zone
| License Type | Use Case |
|---|---|
Service License |
For consultancy, marketing, IT services, and professionals |
Trading License |
For buying and selling goods (import/export) |
Media License |
For media production, publishing, broadcasting, and digital media |
Industrial License |
For light manufacturing, processing, and packaging |
Holding License |
For holding shares or assets in other companies |
Required Documents for SHAMS Company Formation
| Entity Type | Required Documents |
|---|---|
FZE (Single Shareholder) |
|
FZCO (Multiple Shareholders) |
|
Branch Office |
|
Ready to Launch Your Business in SHAMS Free Zone?
Virtue Corporate Services is your trusted partner for seamless business setup in Meydan Free Zone. From license application to visa processing and bank account opening, we handle everything — so you can focus on growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) is one of the most budget-friendly free zones in the UAE for entrepreneurs. It offers competitive packages for various business types. For updated pricing details tailored to your business model, reach out to Virtue Corporate Services, your trusted partner in Shams company formation.
No, physical presence is not mandatory. You only need to have visited the UAE once if your SHAMS company formation includes a residence visa. If you are only applying for a trade license, you can form your company in Shams remotely with complete support from Virtue Corporate Services.
While SHAMS is open to global investors, certain nationalities may require prior approval. Once pre-approval is obtained, the chances of visa rejection are significantly minimized. Virtue Corporate Services can assist with pre-screening and smooth visa application processes.
No local sponsor is required. One of the major advantages of setting up a company in SHAMS is 100% foreign ownership. Virtue Corporate Services ensures your company is legally structured for full control and compliance.
The typical timeline for SHAMS company formation is 2 to 3 working days, provided all application forms and documents are submitted correctly. For visa-related processes, timelines vary based on approvals.
SHAMS supports a wide array of business activities, particularly in media, broadcasting, public relations, consultancy, and advertising. A variety of sub-categories are available, and Virtue Corporate Services can help you select the ideal activity based on your goals.
No. A physical office is not required. One of the main benefits of SHAMS company formation is the flexibility to operate with a virtual setup or flexi-desk, especially if your package includes visas.