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Cost of SHAMS Free Zone License in 2026
The cost of a business license is the first thing everyone wants to know before initiating company formation formalities. Having supported resident and foreign investors constantly, Kiltons could guide our clients in the best possible way. Making the business establishment cost-effective and budget-friendly. The cost of the SHAMS freezone trading license in 2025 will depend on factors including the type of license, the number of visas needed, additional approvals, and others.
As a trusted business setup service in Dubai since 1999, we understand the client’s requirements and guide them accordingly. Getting a cost-effective and budget-friendly SHAMS freezone license that suits the client’s needs is our priority.
| Package Type | Visa Allocation | Starting Price (AED) | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Media | 0 | 5700 | Media, creative, publishing businesses, or freelancers who want a basic business setup without an employee visa. |
| Standard Package | 0 | 6850 | Suitable for trading businesses, services, and similar activities, which don’t require a visa. |
| Media+1 Visa | 1 | 7300 | Media businesses to be established in SHAMS that require one visa for the owner or the employee. |
| Standard + 1 Visa | 1 | 8450 | For trading, service, or similar businesses that need one visa. |
| Flexi Desk/ Shared Desk | 0 | 8350 | Businesses needing a flexi desk or shared desk space, without a visa. |
| Multi-visa Package (Multiple Year License) | 4+ | From 11000 To 18000+ | Growth-oriented businesses planning long-term operations require employee visas. |
How to Set Up an SHAMS Free Zone Company
Business in the SHAMS Freezone can be set up remotely. Choose the business activity, identify the type of business license required, prepare and submit the documents, and obtain the SHAMS business license. That’s it. The process would be easy and quick if a trusted business setup service specialist were handling the process. Kiltons supports you at every stage, from activity selection and documentation to license approval, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free setup experience.
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How to start a business in Sharjah?
Types of Business
Entities in SHAMS
Sharjah Media City Freezone offers two types of business structures: SHAMS LLC (Limited Liability Company) and a Branch of a Local or Foreign Company. SHAMS free zone doesn’t follow the concepts of FZC and FZE as in other free zone jurisdictions.
| Entity Type | Description | Ownership |
|---|---|---|
| SHAMS LLC | A Limited Liability Company is the most common business structure in SHAMS. It can be established by a single owner or multiple shareholders (up to 50 shareholders are allowed). | 100% |
| Branch Office | Existing business establishments that want a presence in the Sharjah Media City can set up a branch office here. All the business activities undertaken by the brand should match those of the parent company. | 100% |
Documents Required for SHAMS Business Setup
For an Individual Shareholder
- Copy of the Passport
- Address Proof
- UAE ID (if UAE Resident)
- Copy of Visa (if UAE Resident)
For Corporate Shareholders
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) of the Corporate Entity
- Article of Association (AOA)
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Board Resolution to Establish the business in SHAMS
- Certificate of Good Standing for the Entity
- Trade License
Timeline Breakdown for SHAMS Business Setup
The regulations and formalities for company formation in SHAMS are simple and straightforward. Making it a trouble-free and quick experience. One can establish a business in Sharjah Media City Freezone (SHAMS) in a minimal timeframe if all the documents are accurate. Ensuring the authenticity of the documents and complying with naming regulations has to be ensured by the owner.
Decide upon the business activities, finalize the business license, and prepare the requisite documents. Choose and register the company name in accordance with the naming regulations stipulated in SHAMS.
Submit the documents, including shareholder details, AOA, MOA, and applications to the SHAMS free zone authority. Pay the license fee according to the package chosen.
The trade license for the business in Sharjah Media City Freezone (SHAMS) is issued in a day if all the documents are correct and there are no anomalies. The authority will issue company registration and incorporation documents, as well as, company license digitally.
An application for the Establishment Card can be submitted on receipt of the business license. The visa process (if applicable) can also be commenced. This will involve formalities for an entry permit, medical tests, and an Emirates ID.
Identifying the space, modifying it to suit the needs, and furnishing as required can be undertaken while proceeding with the business license formalities.
The company license and the documents issued by the SHAMS Freezone authority can be used for opening a corporate bank account. The timeline for opening a bank account will depend on the bank.
Obtaining a corporate account is the final step before commencing full-fledged business operations.
Key Advantages - SHAMS Business Setup
SHAMS Freezone has been a highly preferred business jurisdiction by both residents and foreign investors. The benefits that make SHAMS the right option are:
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure, Client-friendly Freezone
The advanced facilities, investor-friendly atmosphere, exceptional growth prospects, and digitally enhanced structure make it the ideal business location for media, trade, and digital businesses.
Suitable for Businesses of Any Size
From start-ups and freelancers to large companies focusing on the media sector, this free zone offers a highly adaptive and fertile space to develop and grow.
Operate Remotely
Businesses can opt to function remotely or consider the flexi desk option. Thus, the entity can have its presence without spending any amount or at minimal expenses.
Own the Company
100% foreign ownership is permitted in the SHAMS free zone. No need to find a local sponsor or investor. Further, it allows 100% profit and capital repatriation.
Licensing
Need help?
1
Choose the Business Activity
Businesses from fields like media, digital, trading, marketing, advertisement, e-commerce, professional services, and consultation agencies can be established in SHAMS Freezone. Identifying a suitable business activity, especially if you are new to this field, is essential. Subsequent official formalities can vary depending on the type of business activity chosen. 05 activities can be performed under a single SHAMS business license.
2
Business Structure and License
SHAMS supports the Limited Liability Company format only. It can have up to 50 shareholders. The license, as per the business activities planned, can be chosen from the following:
- Trading License – For trading, including buying and selling of products
- Service License – For offering professional services (suitable for freelancers)
- Industrial License – For manufacturing and production businesses
- Holding License – For holding shares and assets
3
Company Name Registration
Propose at least 3 names you are opting for the entity for registration. The names should be according to the UAE naming regulations. Obtain approval from the authority.
4
Application Submission
You are ready to submit the application once all the documents are ready. Application form and requisite documents can be submitted through a trusted business setup service to make the process more convenient. Visa allocations, type of workspace required, etc., can be mentioned in the application.
5
Document Preparation
The documents required will be different for individual shareholders and corporate shareholders. Documents obtained from other countries must be notarised and attested.
Individual Shareholders
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photographs in a white background
- Visa and Emirates ID copy (for UAE residents)
Corporate Shareholders
- Certificate of Incorporation
- AOA and MOA
- Power of Attorney
- Board Resolution
- Copy of the passport of the authorized person
6
Pay the License Fee
Business setup cost in the SHAMS free zone is one of the lowest in the UAE. It is the same with the license cost as well. Pay the fee that includes the license fee, registration charges, name approval fee, and lease agreement fee.
7
Get Business License
License and associated documents will be issued in the shortest possible time if all the documents are correct. The SHAMS Freezone authority will issue a Trade License, MOA, Certificate of Incorporation, Share Certificate, and Lease Agreement.
8
UAE Residency Visa (if required)
Proceed with the visa process if a visa package is selected. It involves an entry permit (if the applicant is located outside the UAE), a medical test, an application for an Emirates ID, and residency stamping.
9
Corporate Bank Account
Now you have a business licence, a certificate of incorporation, and all the documents associated with the company. Apply for a corporate bank account with the documents. The account opening time will differ depending on the bank chosen.
SHAMS Business Bank Account Assistance
Popular Banks
- RAK Bank
- Mashreq Bank
- Emirates NBD
- Wio
Required Documents
- Passport Copy
- Certificate of Incorporation
- MOA & AOA
- Emirates ID (for residents)
- Visa Copy (if applicable)
- Tenancy Contract
- Bank Statement (03-06 months)
- Detailed Business Plan
- Proof of Address
- Share Certificate
- Additional Documents (as required)
Bank interview
An interview with the owner is a part of the account opening process. It is undertaken for KYC verification, understanding the nature of business activities, the credibility of the business, and ensuring that the company is abiding by the regulations.
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Account Opening Timelines
Bank account opening may take from 05 days to 20 days. The timeline will depend on the bank, the accuracy of documents, and other factors.
Talk to an expertOffice Options Available in SHAMS
Choose from a broad list of office spaces. The type and size of the office can be chosen depending on the budget, business activities, and plan for expansions. However, the number of visas permitted will depend on the size and type of office.
| Workspace Type | Description | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| Flexi-desk/ Shared Desk | Open shared workspace with shared amenities and without any fixed working space. | Suitable for freelancers and start-ups that are focused on working on a limited budget |
| Dedicated Desk Space | A specified desk in a co-working space setting. Amenities and common areas are shared with others. | Ideal for small businesses and teams who want to work together in a co-working space setting. |
| Private/ Dedicated Office | Private offices that have a specified/ lockable space. This is normally offered with customization options. | Regularly operating businesses that want to ensure a credible and strong identity, those with client meetings, and more employees. |
| Specialised Studios | Video & audio production houses, podcast studios, etc., | Media and digital entities can opt for this type of business space. |
| Virtual Office | No physical office, the business license is issued accordingly. | Digital businesses, e-commerce services, and online activities can choose this type of space in the SHAMS free zone. |
SHAMS License Types & Sample Business Activities
SHAMS Free Zone presents investors with several benefits, making it a preferred choice over many other free zones. One of its key advantages is its suitability for all types of entrepreneurs — from freelancers and startups to established businesses.
Service/ Consultancy License
Business consultation services, professional services, accounting and auditing services, etc., can choose this type of license.
Sample Activities :
- Management Consultation
- HR
- Marketing
- Event Management
Trading License
Import and export of goods, wholesale/ retail of products, and other trading activities in SHAMS require this license.
Sample Activities :
- Sales of Electronics
- Online Merchandize
- Retail Sales
Industrial/ Light-industrial License
Manufacturing and production of light goods and other products, including packaging, in an industrial setup.
Sample Activities :
- Manufacturing
- Packaging of Products
- Packaging
- Production
Holding License
License authorizing the holding of shares and assets in other companies. Service and trading are not permitted with this license.
Sample Activities :
- Own Shares
- Manage Assets
- Equity Holding
E-commerce License
License for online business activities, e-commerce businesses, and operations through digital platforms.
Sample Activities :
- Online Retail
- E-commerce Ventures
Professionals, creatives, and media talents looking to work as freelancers.
Sample Activities :
- Screenwriters
- Graphic Designers
- Podcasting Professionals
- Videographers
SHAMS Company Renewal
Renewal of the SHAMS Freezone company license is of paramount importance. The free zone authority may offer a grace period, at times. However, it is best for the business to renew the annual license well in time. Non-renewal can lead to cancellation of visas and will affect the corporate bank account.
- Check the license expiry date
- Prepare the documents for renewal and ready the application.
- Submit the renewal application and fee.
- Get the renewed license and other documents.
License Cancellation
Exit Process, Visa Cancellation, Final audit (if applicable)
SHAMS Company Amendments
SHAMS has laid down a straightforward procedure for company amendments. Change in business activities, company structure, office location, etc., requires amendments in the documents. The fee for the amendment will depend on the type of amendment. The documents generally required for amendments are:
- Application form for the amendment.
- Company board resolution stating the amendment.
- Passport copy of shareholders/ directors (if applicable).
- Memorandum of Association.
- Copy of business license.
SHAMS Company Cancellation
The SHAMS free zone company cancellation must be commenced before the expiry of the present license. A late fee would be applicable otherwise.
- Initiate company cancellation at least one month before the expiry of the license.
- Prepare the documents, including the company cancellation form.
- Clear all dues like lease, utility bills, and bank fees.
- Submit the cancellation form along with the documents.
- Receive the certificate of cancellation.
Hidden Cost to be Aware of
Sharjah Media City Freezone (SHAMS) doesn’t charge any hidden fees. There are charges that many don’t notice. Those include:
- Visa processing fee
- Medical charges
- Emirates ID fee
- Business name reservation fee
- Bank account setup costs
- Amendment fee
- Visa cancellation fee
- Late fee
Is SHAMS
the Right Choice for You?
the Right Choice for You?
SHAMS is Ideal For
Those looking to start a creative or media company with minimal budget overhead.
Freelancers, creators, and consultants require a credible business environment and improved visibility.
Quick and easy business setup, flexible visa regulations, a plethora of workspace options, and 100% ownership make SHAMS suitable for expats trying the UAE market for the first time.
An optimal business environment and supportive policies make SHAMS ideal for the e-commerce sector.
SHAMS May Not Be Ideal For
Large factories involving heavy machinery, industries needing wider warehousing, and companies requiring advanced infrastructure support in terms of power and logistics support may not choose SHAMS.
Businesses that need several expat employees will require a large visa quota. The visa quota limitations may lead to the requirement of hiring expensive workspaces. That may not be budget-friendly or cost-effective.
Mainland business operation is limited in the case of a SHAMS free zone company. Start a mainland business if your business focuses on clients from the UAE Mainland jurisdiction.
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