Set Up a Company in Sharjah Media City
One of UAE's fastest-growing and most affordable free zones. Licences from AED 5,750. Setup in 24 hours.
Sharjah Media City
SHAMS
- Sharjah Media City, Sharjah
- Regulated by SHAMS
- Established 2017
- Official website
Best for:
Why Choose SHAMS?
Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) is one of the UAE's fastest-growing free zones and among the most affordable. Despite its name, SHAMS is not limited to media activities — it offers a wide range of business activities including consulting, trading, and e-commerce. The zone can issue licences in as little as 24 hours.
Extremely Affordable
Licences starting from just AED 5,750/year.
24-Hour Setup
Licences can be issued within 24 hours.
No Office Required
Virtual office options available.
Wide Activity Range
Over 1,000 business activities — not just media.
Remote Setup
Complete registration without visiting the UAE.
Freelancer Friendly
Excellent freelancer permit options.
Important: What SHAMS companies cannot do
- Located in Sharjah — approximately 30 minutes from Dubai
- Less prestigious than Dubai free zones
- Limited visa allocation compared to larger zones
- Some banks may have preferences for Dubai-based companies
SHAMS Setup Costs — 2026 Pricing
Prices shown are indicative of 2026 market rates. Exact costs depend on your chosen activities, visa quota, and office package. Get an exact quote →
Year 1 total: ~AED 5,750+ |Annual renewal: From AED 3,738. Year 2 onwards is typically 30–40% less as registration fees are one-off.
How to Register a Company in SHAMS
Choose Your Activities
Select up to 1-3 business activities from SHAMS's approved list.
Reserve Your Company Name
Choose a unique company name following UAE naming rules. Must include FZE or FZCO suffix.
Submit Documents
Passport copy, photo, proof of address. Can be processed 100% remotely.
Receive Initial Approval
SHAMS reviews your application. Initial approval typically takes 1 business days.
Pay & Receive Your Licence
After payment, your trade licence is issued within 1-3 working days.
Apply for Visas
With your licence, apply for UAE residence visas. Process takes 3-5 weeks with in-person medical and biometrics.
UAE Residence Visas Through SHAMS
Visa Quota
With a SHAMS licence you can sponsor up to 10 residence visas depending on your office package. Flexi desk packages typically allow 1 visas.
Visa Cost
Each UAE residence visa through SHAMS costs approximately AED 3,000 – 4,500 including entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping fees.
Visa Validity
UAE free zone residence visas are valid for 2–3 years and can be renewed. Your visa is tied to your company — if the licence lapses, visas must be renewed or cancelled.