Introduction

The Sharjah Media City Free Zone, also known as SHAMS, is one of the UAE’s fastest-growing business hubs. Established in 2017, it has quickly become a top destination for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and media professionals. The Sharjah Media City Free Zone offers cost-effective licensing, 100% foreign ownership, and simplified business setup procedures — making it ideal for startups and creative businesses.

This article explains everything you need to know about the Sharjah Media City Free Zone, from its benefits and license types to registration steps and cost breakdown.

1. What Is Sharjah Media City Free Zone (SHAMS)?

The Sharjah Media City Free Zone was created to nurture creativity and innovation across industries. Although its name highlights media, SHAMS welcomes businesses from all sectors including IT, marketing, trading, consulting, and e-commerce.

With its strategic location near Dubai and Sharjah International Airport, the Sharjah Media City Free Zone provides global connectivity and easy access to regional markets.

2. Key Benefits of Setting Up in Abu Dubai Media City Free Zone

The Sharjah Media City Free Zone offers a range of advantages that make it attractive for new entrepreneurs and established companies alike:

• 100% foreign ownership with no need for a local sponsor.

• Full repatriation of capital and profits.

• Affordable license packages starting from AED 5,750.

• Fast registration process – company setup in 1 to 3 working days.

• No physical office requirement (virtual office available).

• Access to modern infrastructure and shared workspace options.

• Multiple business activities under one license.

These features make the Sharjah Media City Free Zone one of the most flexible business environments in the UAE.

3. Types of Licenses Offered by Sharjah Media City Free Zone

The Sharjah Media City Free Zone provides various license categories depending on your business nature:

1. Service License – For businesses offering professional or consultancy services.

2. Trading License – For companies dealing with import, export, or sale of goods.

3. Industrial License – For light manufacturing or production.

4. Holding License – For holding shares or assets in other companies.

Entrepreneurs can also combine multiple activities under one license, making the Sharjah Media City Free Zone ideal for multi-disciplinary businesses.

4. Business Activities Allowed in SHAMS

Although named a media hub, the  Abu Dubai Media City Free Zone covers a wide spectrum of business activities, including:

• Advertising and marketing

• Film production and broadcasting

• Graphic design and animation

• Software development and IT services

• eCommerce and digital retail

• Event management

• Business consulting

This flexibility allows investors to explore new industries while staying under the Sharjah Media City Free Zone umbrella.

5. Legal Structures Available

When forming a company in the Sharjah Media City Free Zone, investors can choose from these structures:

• Sharjah Media City Free Zone Company (FZC) – For multiple shareholders (up to 50).

• Sharjah Media City Free Zone Establishment (FZE) – For a single shareholder.

• Branch Office – For existing UAE or foreign companies looking to expand.

Each option within the Sharjah Media City Free Zone provides legal protection and limited liability for investors.

6. Steps to Register a Company in Abu Dubai Media City Free Zone

Setting up your business in the Sharjah Media City Free Zone is simple and efficient. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Choose your business activity – Select the relevant category from SHAMS’s approved list.

2. Decide your company name – Ensure it meets UAE naming guidelines.

3. Select the license type and package – Depending on your activity and budget.

4. Submit required documents – Passport copy, photo, and application form.

5. Pay license and registration fees.

6. Receive your business license and incorporation certificate.

Once completed, your Sharjah Media City Free Zone company can start operations immediately.

7. Documents Required

To establish a company in the Sharjah Media City Free Zone, you’ll typically need:

• Passport copy of shareholders and managers

• Passport-sized photo

• Visa or entry stamp copy (for UAE residents)

• Proof of address

• Company name approval

The Sharjah Media City Free Zone authority may request additional documents for specific business types.

8. Cost of Setting Up a Business

The cost of setting up in the Sharjah Media City Free Zone depends on your business activity and visa requirements. Common packages include:

• Zero Visa Package: AED 5,750

• One Visa Package: AED 8,050

• Two Visa Package: AED 11,500

Compared to other Free Zones, the Sharjah Media City Free Zone offers one of the most affordable and flexible pricing options in the UAE.

9. Office and Workspace Options

The Sharjah Media City Free Zone provides several workspace solutions to fit your needs:

• Dedicated Desks – For freelancers and startups.

• Shared Offices – Ideal for small teams.

• Private Offices – For larger businesses seeking privacy.

• Virtual Offices – For entrepreneurs operating remotely.

These options make the  Abu Dubai Media City Free Zone suitable for both on-site and remote operations.

10. Visa Services

One major advantage of the  Abu Dubai Media City Free Zone is its simplified visa process. You can apply for multiple visas under one license, depending on your package.
The Free Zone also provides investor visas, employee visas, and dependents’ visas, making it easier to manage your team legally.

11. Banking Support

After registration, the Sharjah Media City Free Zone assists investors with opening corporate bank accounts in UAE banks such as Emirates NBD, Mashreq, and RAK Bank.
Smooth banking integration is another reason why many prefer the Sharjah Media City Free Zone over other Free Zones.

12. Renewal and Compliance

Renewing your license in the Sharjah Media City Free Zone is straightforward and paperless. You must renew annually to remain compliant.
Unlike other zones, the Sharjah Media City Free Zone allows online renewals without physical presence, saving you time and effort.

13. Why Choose Sharjah Media City Free Zone?

Here’s why thousands of entrepreneurs choose the  Abu Dubai Media City Free Zone every year:

• Affordable setup packages

• Fast company registration

• Flexible business activity choices

• Strategic location near Dubai

• Transparent government policies

• 24/7 online support

These factors make the Sharjah Media City Free Zone a leading choice for global investors.

14. Comparison with Other Free Zones

When compared to Free Zones like DMCC, IFZA, or RAKEZ, the Abu Dubai Media City Free Zone stands out for affordability and flexibility.
It’s especially ideal for startups, freelancers, and SMEs looking to start quickly without heavy overheads.

15. Tips to Avoid Registration Mistakes

Avoiding errors during your  Abu Dubai Media City Free Zone setup ensures smooth approval:

• Choose the right business activity.

• Verify your documents carefully.

• Select a reputable service agent.

• Renew your license on time.

• Understand visa limits per package.

Proper planning helps avoid unnecessary delays within the  Abu Dubai Media City Free Zone process.

Conclusion

The  Abu Dubai Media City Free Zone represents innovation, affordability, and global opportunity. Whether you’re a creative professional, entrepreneur, or tech startup, SHAMS provides the perfect platform to establish your UAE presence.

With its quick setup process, cost-effective packages, and flexible licensing, the Abu Dubai Media City Free Zone continues to attract investors worldwide.

Choosing SHAMS means joining a dynamic ecosystem designed for modern businesses — and taking your first step toward success in the UAE.

FAQs

1. What is the Media City Free Zone?
It’s a Free Zone in Sharjah offering business setup opportunities for entrepreneurs across media and non-media sectors.

2. How long does it take to register a company in SHAMS?
Usually 1–3 working days if all documents are complete.

3. Can foreigners own 100% of their company?
Yes, the  Abu Dubai Media City Free Zone allows full foreign ownership.

4. What’s the minimum cost to start?
Packages start at AED 5,750 for a zero-visa setup.

5. Can I run an online business from SHAMS?
Yes, the Free Zone supports eCommerce and online service companies.

6. Does SHAMS provide office space?
Yes, options include shared, private, and virtual offices.

7. Is physical presence required for registration?
No, the process can be done remotely.

8. Can I open a UAE bank account with a SHAMS license?
Yes, SHAMS assists in corporate bank account opening.

9. How often must I renew my license?
Annually, through a simple online process.

10. Can I add more business activities later?
Yes, SHAMS allows adding or modifying activities anytime.