Sharjah Media City (Shams)
Complete guide to registering your company in Sharjah Media City (Shams) Free Zone. Understand requirements, fees, registration process, and annual compliance obligations for media and creative businesses.
About Sharjah Media City (Shams)
Sharjah Media City (Shams) is a specialized free zone dedicated to media, publishing, advertising, and creative industries. Located in Sharjah, it offers 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate and income tax, and full repatriation of capital and profits. Shams is ideal for media companies, publishers, production houses, advertising agencies, and creative professionals seeking a cost-effective business setup.
License Types Available
Media Production License
For film production, video production, TV broadcasting, and multimedia content creation.
Publishing License
For newspapers, magazines, books, digital publishing, and editorial services.
Advertising & PR License
For advertising agencies, public relations firms, marketing consultancies, and creative agencies.
Creative Services License
For graphic design, photography, animation, digital arts, and creative consulting.
Registration Requirements
- Passport Copies: Clear copies of passports for all shareholders and directors
- Proof of Address: Recent utility bill or bank statement (within 3 months)
- Business Plan: Brief description of media/creative business activities
- CV/Resume: For all shareholders demonstrating media/creative experience
- No Objection Certificate: If currently employed in UAE (for UAE residents)
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Choose License Type & Trade Name
Select appropriate media license category and reserve your company name
Timeline: 1-2 days
Submit Application & Documents
Complete application form and submit required documents to Shams
Timeline: 1-2 days
Initial Approval
Shams reviews application and issues initial approval letter
Timeline: 2-3 business days
Payment & Lease Agreement
Pay license fees and select office space option (flexi-desk or physical office)
Timeline: 1 day
License Issuance
Receive trade license and establishment card
Timeline: 1-2 days
Visa & Bank Account
Apply for residence visas and open corporate bank account
Timeline: 2-3 weeks
Shams Fee Structure
| Description | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade License Fee (Annual) | 8,500 - 15,000 |
| Registration Fee (One-time) | 3,000 |
| Share Capital (No deposit required) | - |
| Flexi-Desk (Annual) | 3,500 - 5,000 |
| Establishment Card | 1,000 |
| Visa Quota (per visa) | 2,500 - 4,000 |
* Fees are subject to change. Contact us for current pricing.
Annual Compliance Requirements
License Renewal
Renew trade license annually before expiry date. Late renewal incurs penalties.
Office Lease Renewal
Maintain valid lease agreement (flexi-desk or physical office) as per Shams requirements.
Financial Statements
Submit audited financial statements if required based on company size and activity.
Corporate Tax Filing
Register for Corporate Tax and file annual returns. QFZP status may provide 0% CT on qualifying income.
VAT Filing (if applicable)
Register for VAT if taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 threshold. File quarterly returns.
Economic Substance Reporting
Submit annual ESR notification and report for relevant activities.
Tax Implications
QFZP Status Benefits
Shams companies may qualify as Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) and enjoy:
- 0% Corporate Tax on qualifying income
- 9% on non-qualifying income (mainland transactions)
- De minimis threshold of 5% or AED 5M for non-qualifying revenue
Related Free Zones
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