Shams Company Formation is now a top choice for new businesses in the UAE. But what makes it stand out so clearly today? From low costs to fast setup, many find it fits their needs better than other free zones. Are you starting alone, with a team, or expanding from abroad? This guide covers the facts, steps, and reasons why Shams could be the right move for your business.
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What is Shams Company Formation?
Shams company formation is a quick and easy way to start a business in the Media City Free Zone. 100% yours, no partner needed. The process is online, so you save time and avoid delays. You can pick from over 2,000 activities under one license. Also, setup costs are low, and no income tax applies. Whether you’re a startup, creative, or small business, Shams fits your needs. Just prepare your ID, choose your license, and you’re ready to begin.
Why Smart Entrepreneurs Pick Shams?
You may quickly start a business in the UAE with Shams company formation. It’s Sharjah’s hidden gem for startups, freelancers, and global firms. Because it cuts the red tape. Also, you maintain every dirham you earn. Here’s why it works so well:
Main Benefits of Shams Company Formation
Full foreign ownership is allowed
- You don’t need a local sponsor. From day one, you maintain control..
Online setup is fast and simple
- Most steps are digital. Time, effort, and office visits are reduced as a result.
Low entry cost for new businesses
- You can start for under AED 6,000.
- That helps reduce startup risk.
- Dubai zones cost 3x more.
Choose from over 2,000 business activities
- This makes it easy to find your exact activity under one license.
Obtain your license in three to five business days.
- Time matters. Shams helps you start fast without long delays.
No corporate or personal income tax
- You keep more of what you earn.
- That is a compelling argument in favor of Shams.
- Especially after the UAE’s 2023 tax changes.
Multiple visa packages are available
- You can apply for 1 to 6 visas depending on your business needs.
You can add several activities under one license
- For example, design + training + e-commerce can all be on the same license.
Freelancer permits are available
- Work alone under your name with one affordable license.
Office space is not required
- You can run your business remotely without renting a physical office.
Useful for both UAE residents and foreigners
- You can apply from abroad or within the UAE without hassle.
Business setup works well for solo founders and teams
- Whether you’re alone or with partners, Shams has flexible options.
Good for creatives and digital fields
- Many activities are tailored to content, design, media, and IT.
E-commerce and trading licenses are accepted
- You can sell online or import/export legally through your license.
A visa is not required to start the business
- Can establish your business first, then apply for a visa.
You can hold multiple business roles
- You don’t need to hire others. You can manage it all yourself.
Profit repatriation is allowed
- Send your earnings abroad with no extra taxes or approvals.
Business activities can be updated later
- If your focus changes, you can edit your license without starting over.
Airport Access Made Easy
- Reach Sharjah Airport in 5 mins.
- Similarly, Dubai in 30. Thus, travel is smooth.
Supportive Community
- Access to a growing community of creative and digital businesses
- Free workshops, business networking events, and training sessions.
- Free exhibition space at major events like GITEX and Seamless
Shams Facility Options and Key Features
| Facility Type | Privacy Level | Ideal For | Key Features/Benefits | Visa Allocation (Approx.) |
| Dedicated Desk | Semi-private | Individual entrepreneurs, focused on work | Assigned workspace, networking opportunities, adaptable space | Up to 12 visas |
| Shared Desk | Open/Collaborative | Freelancers, mobile professionals | Flexible spots, cost-effective, and encourage interaction | Up to 6 visas |
| Dedicated Office | Private | Individuals or small teams, focused on growth | Lockable, private space, supports team building | Varies by package |
| Shared Office | Semi-private | Budget-conscious teams, networking | More privacy than a shared desk, a professional environment | Varies by package |
Special Perks That Set Shams Apart
- Focus on Creative Sectors
Shams supports media and content businesses. It attracts creators and digital firms.
- Upcoming Platforms
New platforms like the Shams Influencers Hub and Shams Film Commission are in development.
- Young Entrepreneur Access
You can own a business at 19. Employees can start working from age 18.
- Bank and VAT Support
Shams helps with bank account opening and VAT registration. This makes compliance simple.
Shams Free Zone vs. UAE Competitors: Which Fits Your Business?
Choosing a UAE free zone? Shams (Sharjah Media City) is renowned for its media focus, affordability, and quickness. But other zones like DMCC or RAKEZ might suit you better. Here’s a comparison based on real costs, rules, and flexibility.
1. Cost & Pricing
- Shams: Licenses start at AED 5,750 (freelancer/service). No hidden fees—ideal for bootstrapped startups.
- DMCC: Entry-level packages ~AED 35,000+. Premium for commodities trading.
- RAKEZ/Ajman: Less industry benefits, but as low as AED 5,500.
- IFZA: AED 12,900+. Mid-range with trading flexibility.
License Cost Comparison
| Free Zone | Basic License (0 Visa) (AED) | 1-Visa Package (AED) | Key Cost Factors / Notes |
| Shams Free Zone | 5,750 – 8,060 | 11,000 – 13,420 | Cost-effective, ideal for startups and SMEs. Optional paid-up capital. |
| IFZA | 5,750 / 12,900 | 14,900 | Affordable, often includes a virtual office. No paid-up capital needed. |
| RAKEZ | 5,500 / 6,000 | 12,000 / 14,010 | Competitive prices, serves diverse industries. Low minimum capital. |
| DMCC | Not explicitly stated (Higher)
35,484 |
16,800 (Flexi-desk only) | Premium setup, strong community. Higher costs. AED 50,000 paid-up capital is mandatory. |
| DIFC | N/A (Premium) | Approx. 216,000 (USD 59,000) | Specialized finance hub, common-law system. High costs, physical presence required. |
| Ajman Free Zone | 3,500 – 6,000 | 7,000 – 10,000 | Very affordable, popular with startups. Low fees, fast setup, flexible visa options. |
2. Set up Speed & Process
- Shams issues licenses in 48 hours for e-commerce and 3-5 days for others. No physical office needed.
- JAFZA/DAFZA take 1-2 weeks. They require warehouse leases or custom approvals.
- DMCC averages 7 days but demands higher capital.
3. Market Access & Visas
- Shams offers 6+ visas in premium packages. However, mainland zones (e.g., Dubai) access UAE markets freely.
- Free zones like Shams can’t directly trade locally. You’ll need a distributor.
- DAFZA/JAFZA grants unlimited visas but requires large offices.
4. Industry Specialization
- Shams: Media, tech, freelancers. Film permits, podcast licenses, and digital content tools included.
- DIFC: Banking/fintech only. Strict regulations but global investor access.
- DMCC: Gold, crypto, diamonds. Best for commodity traders.
- RAKEZ: Factories or warehouses. Cheap industrial space.
Free Zones by Primary Industry Focus and Activity Range
| Free Zone | Primary Industry Focus | Key Business Activities / Examples | Activity Combination Flexibility |
| Shams Free Zone | Media, Creative, Digital | Publishing, advertising, broadcasting, film production, e-commerce, consultancy, trading, industrial, freelance | Over 120 activities; multiple interconnected activities under one license |
| IFZA | Broad/Flexible (Dubai Silicon Oasis) | Trading, consulting, services, industrial, e-commerce, and general trading | Up to 7 activities under one license; permits combination of professional, commercial, and industrial |
| RAKEZ | Diverse Industries | Trading, manufacturing, services, e-commerce, education, freelance | Over 50 industries supported; a broad range of activities |
| DMCC | Commodities, Trade, Finance | Commodities trading, tech startups, finance, and professional services | Up to 6 related business activities on one license |
| DIFC | Financial Services | Banking, asset management, insurance, fintech, legal services (holding activities for assets) | Highly specialized; holding a license does not cover trading/advisory |
| Ajman Free Zone | Industrial, Trading, Services | Manufacturing, trading, shipping, consultancy, IT, media, education | Flexible activity combinations; supports multi-activity licenses |
5. Legal Flexibility
- Shams allows mixing 3+ activities under one license (e.g., “design + e-commerce + consulting”).
- Mainland Dubai forces separate licenses per activity.
- DMCC allows 6 activities but charges extra.
6. Tax & Compliance
- All UAE free zones offer zero% corporate tax if profits stay under AED 375k. Shams clarifies this upfront.
- Mainland companies pay 9% tax above the threshold.
- Shams has no audit requirements for small firms. DIFC enforces strict reporting.
7. Office & Infrastructure
- Shams offers virtual offices or flexi-desks. Saves ~AED 15K/year vs. physical spaces.
- JAFZA/DMCC mandates private offices. Costly but prestige addresses.
- RAKEZ offers cheap warehouses for manufacturers.
8. Upgrades & Expansion
- Start cheap in Shams with a freelancer permit (AED 5,750). Upgrade later hassle-free.
- Adding activities requires complicated re-licensing for mainland businesses.
- DMCC permits dual licensing (free zone + mainland) for wider access.
The Trade-Offs Summarized
Shams vs. Top Competitors
| Feature | Shams | DMCC | RAKEZ | Mainland |
| Cost | Low | High | Lowest | Medium |
| Speed | Fast | Medium | Medium | Slow |
| Local Market | Limited | Limited | Limited | Full |
| Tax | 0% | 0% | 0% | 9% over 375K |
| Office | Virtual | Required | Industrial | Required |
Why Shams Wins for Some (But Not All)
- Pick Shams if: You’re a freelancer, media creator, or e-commerce seller. Fast, cheap, and digital-friendly.
- Avoid Shams if: You trade physical goods locally or need government contracts. Mainland/DMCC works better.
- Pro Tip: Started in Shams? Add a mainland distributor later. This avoids huge upfront costs.
Final Checklist: Where to Incorporate
- Media/content creators? Shams.
- Import/export goods? JAFZA/DAFZA.
- Commodities/crypto? DMCC.
- Factories? RAKEZ/Ajman.
- UAE-wide sales? Mainland Dubai.
Shams shines for digital-first, budget-savvy founders. But match your industry, growth plans, and budget to your zone. Example: A Dubai media studio saved AED 22K/year by choosing Shams over DMCC. Use their playbook.
Start lean in Shams. Upgrade to trading licenses after hitting sales goals. No need to overpay early.
Who Should Consider Shams Company Formation?
Shams company formation is not just about beginning a business. It’s about starting smart. It fits the needs of modern entrepreneurs who want speed, full ownership, flexibility, and to run legally in the UAE.
Whether you’re new to business or already growing, Shams Free Zone makes the process simple, legal, and fast.
Below are the main categories of people and companies who can benefit from using Shams company formation services.
Freelancers & Solo Pros
- Utilize a freelance permit to work under your name.
- Choose 3+ activities (e.g., design + consulting).
- Start for under AED 5,750.
- Plus, pay zero income tax. Operate remotely without visas if needed.
Startups & Small Teams
- Because budgets matter, use shared desks and 1-6 visa packages.
- Get licenses in 48 hours.
- Moreover, mix activities like e-commerce + marketing under one license.
Entrepreneurs
- Have a business idea but don’t want to deal with long steps or hidden costs. Shams is a fast option.
Event Organizers
- Handle events, conferences, or exhibitions.
- Shams has dedicated activity options for you.
Media & Creative Agencies
- Specifically for filmmakers, advertisers, or content creators.
- Whether you’re into fashion, interior, or branding, Shams suits creative businesses.
- Access studios, events, and media visas.
- For instance, edit videos, run podcasts, or design apps—all covered.
Tech & E-commerce Firms
- Especially online sellers. Grab an e-commerce license.
- Import goods tax-free. Use SHAMS logistics hubs near Dubai airports.
Global Businesses Expanding to UAE
- Open a branch remotely. No need to visit the UAE.
- Keep 100% ownership. Send profits home easily.
Investors & Holding Companies
- Hold shares in other businesses.
- Shield personal help from company debts.
- Want to manage other assets or companies legally? Shams supports this with easy rules.
Consultants & Coaches
- Whether in finance, HR, or coaching. Advise clients globally.
- Legal, business, or marketing consultants can run operations under one flexible license.
- Pay AED 573/month for licenses.
Trading & Wholesale Traders
- Import/export goods without duties.
- Use general trading licenses. Get 20% discounts on 3-year packages.
Specialized Service Providers
- From architects to accountants. Operate under service licenses.
- Add extra activities for AED 2,000 each.
License Types Compared
| License Type | Best For | Key Perks | Start Cost |
| Freelancer | Solo pros | 3+ mixed activities, no office | AED 5,750 |
| Media | Studios, agencies | Film permits, equipment import | AED 7,350 |
| E-commerce | Online sellers | Tax-free imports, 6 visas | AED 13,420 |
| Trading | Wholesalers | Retail/import rights, 20% discounts | AED 17,420 |
| Holding | Investors | Asset protection, no operations | AED 11,500 |
Shams aren’t just paperwork. It’s your shortcut to the UAE market. Seriously—gather your ID, apply online, and start operating within days.
Requirements Are Simple
| Category | Key Needs | Shams Advantage |
| Freelancers | Passport, photo, business idea | Start solo, no office needed |
| Startups | Fast approval, low cost | Register in 3-5 working days |
| Consultants | Flexible scope | Over 2000+ activities allowed |
| Creatives | No big capital required | Full ownership, no local sponsor |
| E-commerce sellers | License + bank account | Set up a valid UAE business |
| Training centers | Clear business model | Get a permit to operate legally |
If mixing consulting + trading, pick a 2-year license. You’ll save 15% and avoid renewal hassles.
What Types of Licenses Are Available for Shams Company Formation?
Shams company formation offers tailored licenses for UAE businesses. Each type fits different goals, from freelancing to trade. Since your choice affects costs, visas, and setup time, this guide helps you decide fast.
The 6 Main License Types (With Real Costs)
Service License
- Service license is the Best for consultants, designers, marketers
- Activities include graphic design, accounting, and HR consulting
- Starts at AED 5,750 (zero-visa option)
- You can combine 3 or more services under one license
Trading License
- Ideal for importing and exporting goods
- Covers wholesale, retail, and cross-border sales
- AED 17,420 starting price (with 20 percent off 3-year plan)
- Premium packages allow more than 6 visas
E-commerce License
- Fits online stores and Shopify sellers
- Allows tax-free imports and digital selling
- AED 13,420 includes 6 visas
- The setup is ready in 48 hours
Freelancer Permit
- Freelancer permit Designed for solo pros like writers, coders, and coaches
- Let you operate under your name
- AED 5,750 cost includes up to 3 activities
- Zero percent income tax included
Media License
- Suit film studios, podcasters, and ad agencies
- Includes rights to import equipment and get filming permits
- Starts at AED 7,350
- Studio access and event links offered
Holding License
- Made for investors managing assets
- Protects personal wealth from business liabilities
- AED 11,500 flat cost
- 0 percent corporate tax if profit stays under AED 375,000
License Comparison Table
| License Type | Start Cost (AED) | Best For | Key Benefit | Visa Allowance |
| Freelancer | 5,750 | Solo designers, tutors | 3+ activities | 0 |
| E-commerce | 13,420 | Amazon sellers | Tax-free imports | 6 |
| Trading | 17,420 | Import/export firms | Retail rights | 6+ |
| Media | 7,350 | Film studios | Equipment import | 3 |
| Service | 5,750 | Consultants, marketers | Mix services | 1–3 |
| Holding | 11,500 | Investors | Asset protection | 2 |
Key Benefits Across All Licenses
- No hidden charges. You pay the cost listed, not a vague starting from rate
- Put e-commerce and consultancy services under a single license.
- Apply from anywhere. Around 97 percent of steps are fully online
- 0% corporate tax if profits are under AED 375k. Therefore, keep more earnings 5.
- Get up to 12 visas with shared desk plans
Who Should Pick Which License
- Freelancer Permit suits bloggers, fitness coaches, and solo tech workers
- E-commerce fits Shopify stores and Instagram sellers
- Media License works well for YouTubers, producers, and agencies
- Holding a License is best for investors running multiple businesses
Start with the freelancer permit if the budget is tight. You can always upgrade later. This saves over AED 8,000 at launch.
How to Apply in 4 Simple Steps
- Choose your activities, such as e-commerce or content creation
- Collect basic documents: passport, ID photo, and address proof
- Apply online. Usually, it takes under an hour.
- Receive your license in 2 to 5 business days
Avoid vague terms like general trading. Be specific, for example, beauty products e-commerce helps speed up approvals.
Shams License Types and Permitted Activities
| License Type | Primary Use | Key Activities | Ideal For |
| Service | Providing professional services | Consultancy, IT, marketing, education, real estate, design | Professionals, consultants, service firms |
| Trading | Buying, selling, and distributing goods | Wholesale, retail, import, export of various products | General traders, import/export businesses |
| Industrial | Manufacturing and production of goods | Assembling, repackaging, re-manufacturing, and industrial processes | Manufacturing companies, industrial ventures |
| Holding | Managing assets and investments | Owning shares, managing subsidiaries, and investment management | Investors, businesses with multiple entities |
| E-commerce | Selling products and services online | Online retail, digital marketing, IT solutions, freelance consultancy | Online entrepreneurs, startups, and digital providers |
| Freelance | Working independently as a professional | Creative, media, technology, writing, graphic design, consulting | Skilled individuals, independent professionals |
| Media | Operating media and creative businesses | Advertising, publishing, broadcasting, film production, digital media, journalism | Creative industries, media pros, and entertainment companies |
Shams Company Formation: Estimated Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost (AED) | Notes |
| Basic License Fee (Zero Visa) | 5,750 – 8,060 | Covers 1-3 business activities |
| 1-Visa Package | 11,000 – 13,420 | Includes license, 1 visa, Flexi-Desk |
| 2-Visas Package | 12,875 – 15,000 | Includes license, 2 visas, Flexi-Desk |
| 3-Visas Package | 13,995 – 18,920 | Includes license, 3 visas, shared desk |
| Additional Visa Cost | 1,600 per visa | Processing fee only |
| Immigration Card | 1,500 | Mandatory for visa packages, valid for 3 years |
| E-Channel Registration | 7,150 | One-time fee, includes AED 5,000 refundable deposit |
| Flexi-Desk (Annual) | 1,600 – 3,000 | Basic workspace option |
| Dedicated Desk/Office (Annual) | 5,000 – 15,000 | Cost varies by size and amenities |
| Annual Renewal Fees | 5,750 – 13,995 | Matches the initial license cost, no audit required |
| Amendments (Activity/Structure) | 2,000 | For changes to business activities or company structure |
| Company Liquidation | 2,000 | Fee to close the company (approx. 3 weeks) |
Your Smart Guide to SHAMS Company Structures: Pick What Fits
SHAMS Free Zone lets you start a business fast. You can set up as an LLC or a branch. Each fits a different goal. So, whether you’re starting fresh or expanding, here’s what you need to know.
1. Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- What it is: LLC is a separate company. You’re protected if something goes wrong.
- Who it fits: Startups, solo founders, or growing teams.
- Why it helps: You get control, with low personal risk.
- Setup time: 2 to 5 working days.
- Cost: Starts at AED 5,750 for zero-visa licenses.
- Who can own: 1 to 50 shareholders (people or companies).
- Extras: Sponsor visas, open business bank accounts, and add different activities under one license.
2. Branch Office
- What it is: An extension of a company you already own.
- Who it fits: Existing businesses, local or abroad.
- Why it helps: Keeps your structure, uses the same name.
- Big plus: Profits go straight to the parent company.
- Watch out: Parent firm handles all debts and legal issues.
- Docs needed: Parent company’s license, Certificate of Good Standing, shareholder IDs.
SHAMS LLC vs Branch
| Feature | LLC | Branch |
| Legal Form | New legal entity | Part of the parent company |
| Owner Type | Up to 50 owners | Parent company only |
| Risk | Limited to your input | Parent company takes full risk |
| Time to Set Up | 2–5 business days | 3–7 business days |
| Starting Cost | From AED 5,750 | From AED 7,000 |
| Visa Support | Yes, up to 12 visas | Yes, staff and partners |
| Bank Account | Yes | Yes |
| Flexibility | High, change later easily | Low, tied to parent structure |
Why This Choice Matters?
- New to the UAE? LLC is safer and cheaper to test your idea.
- Already have a company? A branch helps expand with less paperwork.
- Need flexibility? LLC lets you adjust your setup later.
What Both Options Share?
- Zero tax on profits under AED 375,000.
- Full foreign ownership. No local partner needed.
- Online setup. Apply from anywhere.
- Visa options. Get visas for staff and family.
- Activity mix. Add services like media, consulting, or e-commerce.
How to Choose: 3 Real-Life Examples
- Freelancer or digital worker?
LLC with a freelancer permit. Work legally under your name. - Running a UK or US company?
Branch office. Keep your brand and skip new registrations.
- Selling products online?
LLC with e-commerce license. Start small and scale up.
3 Mistakes to Avoid
- Branches: Parent company debts? Your UAE assets could be at risk. Not ideal for risky ventures
- Wrong activity names may block bank accounts. Be clear and specific.
- Cheap desks can save costs, but some banks prefer private space.
Start small with an LLC. Later, you can upgrade or partner with a mainland distributor if needed.
Final Checklist
- LLC is best if you’re new, solo, or want full control.
- Branch is best if you already have a company and want to expand.
- Still unsure? Use SHAMS’ online cost calculator to compare packages.
SHAMS company formation works for both new and established businesses. Bottom line? SHAMS company formation bends to your goals. LLCs protect and adapt. Branches extend and simplify. Choose wisely, start fast.
For a smooth Shams company formation, rely on Business Link UAE. Their expert help saves time, avoids mistakes, and makes your business setup easy. Start with confidence.
What Documents Are Required for Shams Company Formation?
Submitting the right papers from the start makes the process faster. Whether you’re an individual, company owner, or setting up a branch, the documents needed vary slightly. Below is your full guide.
General Documents Required for All Applications
These apply to individuals, new entities, or branches:
- A copy of each manager’s and shareholder’s passport.
- Recent photo (white background, passport size)
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement, no more than three months old)
- UAE visa copy or entry stamp (if inside UAE)
- Three proposed company names
- List of selected business activities from the Shams list
- The mobile number and email of each shareholder
- Preferred office setup (virtual, shared, or dedicated)
Extra Documents for Corporate Shareholders
If a company holds shares, you must submit:
- Certificate of Incorporation (attested copy)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)
- Board Resolution to form the Shams Company
- Shareholder Certificate
- Trade license (if the parent company is UAE-based)
- A passport copy of the authorized signatory
Additional Documents for Foreign Branches
For setting up a branch outside the UAE:
- Parent company’s Certificate of Incorporation
- MOA of the parent company
- Board resolution for branch registration
- Power of Attorney for the branch manager
- Manager’s passport and visa copy
- The latest utility bill for the parent company’s address
- Company profile (summary of activities)
Documents for a UAE-Based Company Branch
If you’re setting up a local branch:
- UAE trade license copy
- Board resolution to form the branch
- Parent company’s MOA.
- UBO declaration, Identifying ultimate beneficial owners .
- Power of Attorney for a manager
- Emirates ID (if the manager is a UAE resident)
- Company stamp and letterhead copies
- Ejari or tenancy contract (if available)
Documents for Freelancers
Freelancers have fewer requirements:
- Passport copy
- Recent passport photo
- Resume or CV
- Sample work or portfolio
- Education certificate (optional)
- Sponsor’s NOC (if on a UAE visa).
- Visa and entry stamp (if inside UAE)
Tips Before Submission
- Double-check passport spelling for all shareholders. I’ve seen visas denied over one misplaced letter.
- Ensure photos meet UAE visa rules (white background, no filters)
- Combine documents into one clear PDF if sending online
- Translate any non-English documents to Arabic or English
- Provide medical records upfront. Emirates ID processing takes the longest.
- One license covers multiple services (e.g., trading + media). List all upfront to avoid amendment fees.
Avoid These 3 Costly Mistakes
- Using low-resolution scans: Blurry pages get rejected instantly.
- Skipping notarization: Foreign documents need embassy attestation.
- Last-minute applications: Ramadan/summer promotions delay processing by 1-2 weeks.
To make your Shams company formation smooth, gather all required documents early. Missing even one file can delay approvals. If unsure about the list or format, get help from a trusted setup agent.
Business Link UAE reviews and arranges all paperwork. They handle translation, attestation, and approvals while you stay focused on your business.
Choose your structure, prepare your documents, and start strong.
9 Steps for SHAMS Company Formation to Start Without Delays
Shams company formation is fast and online. However, missing a single step can delay your setup. This checklist ensures you start right from day one.
Step-by-Step: How to Set Up in SHAMS Free Zone
- Step 1 – Choose Your Business Activity: Select one or more activities from SHAMS’ approved list. Make sure they match your actual work.
- Step 2 – Pick a Legal Structure: Choose between a Free Zone Establishment, Free Zone Company, or branch. Each fits a different business size.
- Step 3 – Submit Company Name Options: Provide three name choices. Avoid religious words, abbreviations, or sensitive terms.
- Step 4 – Prepare the Required Documents: Get passport copies, photos, proof of address, and any corporate paperwork ready. All files must be clear and legal.
- Step 5 – Apply Through the SHAMS Portal: Complete your online form. Upload documents and confirm your office type—shared desk, virtual, or dedicated.
- Step 6 – Pay the License Fees: Pay the fees based on your license type. The beginning cost is around AED 5,750.
- Step 7 – Wait for SHAMS Approval: Once documents are checked, SHAMS will issue your license, incorporation papers, and MOA.
- Step 8 – Setup Office Space (If Needed). Choose Virtual desk (no visa support), Shared desk (up to 6 visas), Private office .
- Step 9– Apply for Visas (Optional): If you need staff visas, submit visa requests through your SHAMS account.
SHAMS Company Formation Checklist Table
| Step | Action | Required? | Notes |
| 1 | Select activity | Yes | Must match your license |
| 2 | Pick structure | Yes | FZE, FZC, or Branch |
| 3 | Reserve name | Yes | 3 names in order |
| 4 | Upload documents | Yes | All files in PDF |
| 5 | Apply online | Yes | Done via SHAMS portal |
| 6 | Pay fees | Yes | From AED 5,750 |
| 7 | Receive license | Yes | Takes 3–5 working days |
| 8 | Office space | No | Based on needs |
| 8 | Visa setup | No | Based on needs |
By following these simple steps, you reduce risk, save time, and stay compliant. Shams company formation is easy—but only if done right.
What compliance rules apply after the SHAMS company formation?
Stay ahead with these:
- Renew licenses yearly (penalties for delays).
- File corporate tax returns if profits exceed AED 375,000.
- Keep records for 5+ years (audits happen!)
Summary
Shams Company Formation clearly offers the smartest path forward. Actually, with 41% faster setups and AED 15K+ savings versus Dubai zones, it’s no wonder media firms and startups choose SHAMS. So, why risk delays or overpaying elsewhere?
Ready to setup? call Business Link UAE for business setup in dubai now. We’ll handle your paperwork, visas, and compliance—guaranteeing your SHAMS setup is smooth, fast, and error-free. Start tomorrow.
FAQ’s
Can I make a business bank account after the Shams company formation?
Yes, after setup, you can do that. Shams Free Zone companies enjoy fast and smooth banking access. Most approved service providers have over 90% success rates. This simplifies financial operations for new businesses. Moreover, many banks accept Shams licenses, so account setup is quick, especially with the right documents and support.
What industry types work with the Shams company formation?
It supports media, IT, consultancy, e‑commerce, events, digital marketing, design, and more. Freelancers and creative professionals find it especially fitting.
How long does a Shams company formation take?
Usually two to four working days. That includes license approval, legal setup, and bank opening. It’s notably quicker than mainland company forms.
Are there specific considerations for Forex Trading in Dubai with the Shams company formation?
Shams company formation allows many trading activities. However, Forex trading is not listed. Since Forex involves financial regulations, you must check with the Shams Free Zone authority or a financial advisor. They can confirm if a special license is needed. It’s smart to ask before applying, as rules for Forex in the UAE can vary by zone and activity type.
Can SHAMS companies do business outside the free zone?
Yes, but with rules:
- You can serve UAE clients directly.
- For physical goods sales, you’ll need a local distributor.
- Online services (e.g., consulting, software) face no restrictions.
