Sharjah Media City, also known as Shams Free Zone, is one of the most cost-effective free zones in the UAE. ItтАЩs perfect for startups and small-to-medium enterprises looking for a virtual and hassle-free business setup in the UAE within a budget. HereтАЩs a nugget of truth: the UAE’s business landscape is evolving, attracting more businesses, which is driving up business setup costs. However, Shams stands out by offering a faster, fully digital, and cost-effective process allowing entrepreneurs to obtain trade licenses and begin operations within days.
So, whether you are planning to start a consultancy, media agency, IT service firm, or trading company, Shams offers cost-effective business setup plans. LetтАЩs dive deep into how to start a business in the Sharjah Free Zone.
Planning to start a business in Shams Free Zone? HereтАЩs a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Determine Your Business Activity
The first step in Shams’ business setup process is identifying the nature of your business. Shams Free Zone offers licenses across 120+ business activities. Some of the popular business setup choices include:
- E-commerce
- General trading
- Management consultancy
- IT services
- Advertising
- Marketing consultancy
- Accounting
- Activities of the holding company
Pro Tip: The business activity you choose will determine the type of license you will need. Hence, it is important to choose the right one from the start, one that is a good fit for your requirements.
Step 2: Legal Structure and License Type
Based on your business activity, choose the most suitable legal structure. The most common options are:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): It is well-suited for businesses with multiple investors or owners.
- Sole proprietorship: It is mostly ideal for single-owner businesses or freelancers.
Each formation type has its own pros and cons with slightly varying processes. Shams Free Zone offers comprehensive guidance to help you make an informed decision. Your chosen structure will affect your visa eligibility, ownership type, and liability, so it is important to choose the one that best fits your business model.
Step 3: Choose Your License Package
Business setup in Shams Free Zone is also easier because we understand that every business is unique. ThatтАЩs why we offer different business setup packages based on your business type. You can select the one that matches your preferences and business needs.
If you are looking to determine the cost of business setup in the UAE, check out our cost calculator. It enables businesses to select their required business activities and view the associated costs.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
With your business activity, legal structure, and license package in place, youтАЩre ready to submit your application. Just select the number of years of license, the number of required visas, and the office facilities to submit your application. The entire process can be conducted virtually through ShamsтАЩ user-friendly platform. For a more personalized service, ShamsтАЩ support team is available for assistance. You can also get your estimated setup cost in a few seconds with Shams’ online cost calculator.
Step 5: Legal Requirements and Documentation
To proceed with your business setup in Shams Free Zone, you must submit all the necessary documentation required to open an LLC or branch. These include:
- Identification documents
- A completed onboarding form
- Ultimate beneficial owner form
- A business plan
In case of a branch, you will also need to submit:
- The parent company’s Certificate of Incorporation
- Articles of Incorporation
- Good Standing Certificate, among other things.
Whenever you decide to start a business in Sharjah Free Zone, our team of experts will assist and guide you in this process.
Step 6: Pay the Required Fees
Shams offers affordable business setup costs, enabling businesses of all sizes to set up without incurring substantial financial burdens. Our business setup packages start at AED 6,000, and depending on your business activity, you can choose between standard or media packages. Additionally, we have partnered with banks to spread your setup cost into monthly installments.
Step 7: Start Your Business Operations
Once your application is approved, you can begin your business operations. Shams offers a range of facilities, from state-of-the-art offices to coworking spaces, helping you set up your workspace to your preferences.
Why Choose Shams Free Zone for Your Business Setup in the UAE?
When setting up a company in the UAE, Shams Free Zone offers an affordable yet professional base. The most distinctive feature of Shams Free Zone is its flexibility. You can manage everything online, even if you live outside the UAE.
Here are some key benefits of setting up a company in the UAE with Shams:
- Cost-effective business setup
- 100% foreign ownership permitted
- Allocation of up to 12 visas on a shared desk facility
- Shareholders are not required to be physically present in the UAE to incorporate a new company
- 120+ business activities are available on the same business license
- Quick and simple online registration process
- Located 10 minutes from Sharjah International Airport and 30 minutes from Dubai International Airport
Conclusion
Setting up your business in Shams Free Zone is a strategic decision that aligns with SharjahтАЩs growth and innovation-driven business landscape. It is the perfect solution for anyone who is wondering how to start a business in Sharjah Free Zone without high startup costs. With a streamlined seven-step process, an array of business activities, cost-effective license packages, and access to world-class facilities, Shams is the perfect partner for your entrepreneurial journey. Take advantage of the opportunity to be part of this thriving business community. Start your business in the Shams Free Zone today. Visit www.shams.ae or call Shams authorities at 800 (Shams) 74267 to learn more about setting up a company in the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Business setup in Shams Free Zone
1. How much does it cost to set up a business in Shams Free Zone?
You can start your business for as low as AED 6,000.
2. Can foreigners start a business in Shams?
Yes, foreigners can absolutely start a business in Shams Free Zone. Foreign investors can own their business in full in the Shams Free Zone, without the need for a local sponsor or partner.
3. What are the benefits of Shams Free Zone vs Dubai Free Zone?
Shams Free Zone offers cost-effective business setup packages. You can start your business for as low as AED 6,000. Besides business setup in the UAE, we also offer:
a. Media and creative services
b. Concierge services
c. Workshops, seminars, and business community sessions for professionals
d. Tax guidance and accounting services
4. How long does it take to set up a business in Shams?
The timeline varies depending on your license type, the activity, and the completeness of your documents. On average, your company should be registered within a week.
5. Can I make changes to my business activity later?
Yes, you may change your business activities even after you have incorporated your company.
6. Can I pay via installments?
Yes, we offer monthly installment facilities with our partner banks.
