Overview
Sharjah Media City, commonly known as Shams, is a free zone in the emirate of Sharjah dedicated to media, creative industries, and technology businesses. Established in 2017, Shams has rapidly grown to host thousands of companies attracted by its affordable licensing, streamlined digital processes, and proximity to Dubai. The zone serves as a budget-friendly alternative to Dubai Media City for freelancers, content creators, and media startups.
Key Sectors
Shams supports media production, publishing, advertising, marketing, graphic design, photography, digital content creation, social media management, e-commerce, IT services, consulting, education, and event management. The zone offers over 1,500 permitted business activities, making it one of the most flexible free zones in the UAE.
Setup Process
Setting up in Shams is a fully digital process. Applicants register through the Shams online portal, select a business activity, upload identification and supporting documents, and receive a licence electronically. The entire process can be completed remotely without visiting the UAE. Licence issuance typically takes one to three business days, making it one of the fastest setup processes in the country.
Costs and Licensing
Shams is among the most affordable free zones in the UAE. Freelancer licences start at approximately AED 5,750 per year, including the licence and establishment card. Company licences begin at approximately AED 12,000 per year. Visa packages are available at additional cost. Physical office space is optional, with flexi-desk solutions available for companies requiring visa allocation.
Benefits
Shams offers zero corporate and personal income tax for qualifying activities, 100 percent foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, an entirely remote incorporation process, extremely affordable licence fees, and a wide range of permitted activities. The zone’s location in Sharjah provides lower living and operating costs compared to Dubai while maintaining close proximity.
Ownership Rules
All Shams entities can be 100 percent foreign-owned. No local sponsor or partner is required. Entity structures include freelancer permits, FZ Establishments (single shareholder), and FZ Companies (multiple shareholders).
Tax Regime
Qualifying Shams companies benefit from zero percent corporate tax under the UAE free zone framework. No personal income tax applies. Standard UAE VAT at five percent applies to taxable supplies.
Infrastructure
Shams operates from facilities in the Sharjah Publishing City development in the Al Alia area. The zone provides office spaces, meeting rooms, co-working facilities, and business centre services. Sharjah connects to Dubai via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road, with a typical commute to central Dubai of 20 to 40 minutes.
Ideal Investor Profile
Shams is ideal for freelancers, content creators, digital marketers, media startups, consultants, and small business owners seeking the most affordable media-oriented free zone licence in the UAE, particularly those who can operate remotely or from flexible office arrangements.