A Smart Choice for New Business Setup

Shams Free Zone

Shams Free Zone was set up in 2017 by an official decree from His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah. Since the beginning, its goal has been to support entrepreneurs, startups, and businesses with simple, smart, and modern solutions.

Shams is a trusted business hub in the UAE, made for today’s entrepreneurs, creative professionals, and growing companies. Whether you are starting your first business or expanding to new markets, it offers a fast, affordable, and fully online company setup process that matches your needs. This makes it a strong choice for anyone looking to set up or grow a business in the UAE.

Best For

  • Tech & IT Startups
  • Creative & Media Agencies
  • E-commerce Businesses
  • Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs
Quick Inquiry

Get Expert Assistance

Submit a quick inquiry and our team will contact you to understand your requirements and guide you on the most suitable license, visa option, and setup package.

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    License Options

    Types of Licenses in Shams Free Zone

    Shams Free Zone offers different license types based on your business activity, operational needs, and future growth plans.

    CL

    Commercial License

    For businesses involved in buying, selling, and trading goods. This is ideal if you're running a retail store, wholesale business, or import/export operation.

    • General trading activities
    • Import and export operations
    • Wholesale and distribution
    SL

    Service License

    Best for service-based businesses like consulting, IT services, digital marketing, accounting, HR services, and professional services. This is one of the most popular licenses for startups and freelancers.

    • Consultancy services
    • Marketing and management services
    • Professional business activities
    IL

    Industrial License

    Designed for manufacturing and production businesses. Perfect if you're setting up a factory, workshop, or any operation that involves making or assembling products.

    • Manufacturing activities
    • Product assembly and packaging
    • Processing and industrial operations
    ML

    Media & Creative License

    Tailored for creative professionals, content creators, designers, photographers, videographers, and media agencies.

    • E-commerce License
    • Digital product sales
    • Marketplace and web-based business
    Key Advantages

    Benefits of Setting Up in Shams Free Zone

    Shams Free Zone gives business owners a simple, flexible, and cost-conscious route to establish a company in the UAE.

    01

    100% Foreign Ownership

    You have complete ownership of your business — no need for a local partner or sponsor. You are in full control of your company and profits.

    02

    Fully Digital & Online Setup

    The entire company registration process is online. From applying to getting your license, everything can be done without visiting an office. This saves you time and hassle.

    03

    Affordable License Packages

    Shams offers very competitive and budget-friendly pricing compared to other free zones in the UAE. You get great value without hidden costs or expensive overheads.

    04

    No Minimum Capital Requirement

    You can start your business without needing a large amount of startup capital. This makes it easy for entrepreneurs and small businesses to get started.

    05

    Tax-Free Environment

    Enjoy zero corporate tax and zero personal income tax. This means you keep more of what you earn, which is a huge advantage for any business.

    06

    Flexible Office & Workspace Solutions

    Shams offers a range of workspace options — from virtual offices and flexi desks to private offices and warehouses. You can choose what fits your budget and needs.

    Our Support

    Services We Offer in Shams Free Zone

    Business Setup PRO helps you manage every important step of your Shams Free Zone company formation, from license application and documentation to visa support and ongoing business compliance.

    1

    New Business Setup

    Start your company in Shams Free Zone with expert guidance. We assist with business activity selection, legal structure, trade name options, license application, documentation, and approvals for a smooth setup process.

    2

    License Renewal

    Keep your Shams Free Zone company compliant with timely license renewal support. We help manage the renewal process, required documents, and fee guidance to avoid delays or business interruptions.

    3

    PRO Services

    Our PRO services support key government and free zone procedures, including visa processing, immigration card coordination, document clearance, approvals, and compliance-related requirements.

    4

    Bank Account Assistance

    Open your UAE corporate bank account with better preparation. We assist with document review, business profile guidance, bank selection, and application support to make the process easier.

    SHAMS Business Setup Process

    How the Process Works

    Setting up a business in Shams Free Zone is fast, simple, and fully digital. From choosing your activity to receiving your license, the process can usually be completed online within 1-3 working days, while visa processing may take an additional few weeks.

    1-3 Days Typical license issuance
    Online Digital application process
    2-3 Weeks Estimated visa processing
    01

    Determine Your Business Activity

    Select the nature of your business from categories such as media, wholesale, retail, services, consultancy, and more.

    02

    Choose Your Legal Structure

    Decide between a Freelancer Permit, Free Zone Establishment FZE, or Free Zone Company FZCO based on your ownership needs.

    03

    Select Your License Package

    Choose a zero-visa or visa-inclusive package based on your budget, activity, and future business requirements.

    04

    Submit Application Online

    Complete the application through the Shams portal with passport copy, photo, background details, and trade name options.

    05

    KYC and Initial Approval

    Complete KYC verification through your dashboard. Initial approval is usually issued within 1-2 working days.

    06

    Pay the Required Fees

    Make the required payment online through the portal according to your selected license package.

    07

    Receive License Documents

    Once approved, your trade license and company documents are sent to your registered email address.

    08

    Immigration Card and E-Channel

    For visa packages, Immigration Card and E-Channel registration are initiated after license approval.

    09

    Apply for Visas

    Apply for entry permits and start the visa process for yourself or your employees through the Shams portal.

    10

    Medical, Biometrics and Emirates ID

    Complete your medical test, biometrics, and Emirates ID process to finalize your UAE residence visa.

    Price Packages

    Shams Free Zone

    Choose a flexible Shams Free Zone package based on your visa needs, business activity, and setup goals.

    Media Package
    0 Visa
    AED 5,760 Limited Time Offer
    • 100% foreign ownership
    • License issued as LLC
    • Up to 5 media activities
    • No NOC required
    • Flexi desk & Lease Agreement provided
    Perfect for creative professional, freelancers, and media entrepreneurs.
    Standard Package
    1 Visa Allocation
    AED 8,485 Limited Time Offer
    • 100% foreign ownership
    • License issued as LLC
    • Up to 5 media activities
    • No NOC required
    • Flexi desk & Lease Agreement provided
    Suitable for individul entrepreneurs who need visa package in affordable price.
    !

    The prices shown above are a limited-time offer and may be changed without prior notice. For the latest pricing and package details, please contact our consultant.

    !

    The above package prices cover the company formation and license issuance only. Government charges such as E-Channel registration fees, Establishment Card, residence visa processing, Medical Fitness Test, Emirates ID, and any other applicable government fees are not included in the package price and will be charged separately, where applicable.

    !

    Additional approvals or fees may also apply depending on the selected business activity and visa requirements.

    Free Consultation

    Before You Set Up, Get the Right Direction

    In a short consultation, we help you understand the best UAE setup option for your activity, ownership goals, visa needs, and budget before you move forward.

    01

    Choose the Right Setup Option

    Understand whether mainland, free zone, or offshore is better for your business activity.

    02

    Get Clear Cost Guidance

    Know the expected license fees, visa costs, documents, and setup requirements before you begin.

    03

    Plan Your Next Step

    Leave the call with a clear direction on what to prepare and how to move forward confidently.

    Select Your Preferred Time Free 15-Min Call
    Frequently Asked Questions

    Shams Free Zone FAQs

    Clear answers to the most common questions about Shams Free Zone company formation, license options, visas, and documentation.

    How much does it cost to set up a company in Shams Free Zone?

    Shams offers affordable packages starting from around 5,750 AED for a zero-visa license. Prices increase with added visas and office options, and you can use their online calculator for exact quotes.

    How long does it take to set up a business in Shams Free Zone?

    The license is usually issued within 1 to 3 working days after submission. Full setup including visas and Emirates ID takes about 3 to 5 weeks in most cases.

    Can foreigners own 100% of a company in Shams Free Zone?

    Yes, Shams allows 100% foreign ownership. You do not need a local sponsor or partner to start your business.

    What documents are needed for Shams company setup?

    You mainly need a passport copy, photo, and completed KYC forms. Corporate shareholders may need extra documents like certificate of incorporation.

    Does Shams Free Zone offer visa support?

    Yes, Shams provides residence visas for you, your family, and employees. Visa packages are available based on your license type.

    Is there a minimum capital requirement in Shams Free Zone?

    No, Shams has no minimum capital requirement. You can start with very little investment compared to other free zones.

    What business activities are allowed in Shams Free Zone?

    Shams supports media, trading, consulting, IT, e-commerce, and many service activities. Some activities may need extra approvals.

    Do I need a physical office in Shams Free Zone?

    Most packages include a flexi-desk or virtual office. You can upgrade to a private office later if your team grows.

    Are there any taxes on profits in Shams Free Zone?

    Shams offers a tax-free environment with zero corporate and personal income tax on qualifying income.

    How do I renew my Shams Free Zone license?

    You can renew your license online every year through the Shams portal. Renewal fees are similar to the initial setup cost.