Sharjah Media City (Shams) Free Zone
Create. Connect.
Grow from Sharjah’s Creative Hub.
At Upzone, we make business setup in the UAE effortless and strategic. Whether you’re a startup founder, a global investor, or scaling an existing venture, our expert team streamlines every step—so you can focus on growth, not red tape.
From structuring the right license to choosing between Free Zone or mainland, we align your vision with solutions tailored to your goals, budget, and timeline.
About Shams Free Zone
Sharjah’s Gateway to Creativity and Innovation.
Launched in 2017, Sharjah Media City (Shams) has quickly become one of the UAE’s fastest-growing free zones for media, digital, and creative businesses. Strategically located in Sharjah with easy access to Dubai, Shams offers cost-effective solutions designed for startups, SMEs, and freelancers seeking credibility and growth in the UAE.
With its strong focus on innovation, media, and modern business services, Shams attracts entrepreneurs from across the globe.
Business Activities In Shams
- Media, advertising, and marketing
- Film production, broadcasting, and publishing
- Freelancing across multiple industries
- E-commerce and online platforms
- Consultancy and professional services
- Design, content creation, and creative services
- Education and training services
- IT and digital solutions
Why Choose Shams Free Zone?
Affordable. Flexible. Innovative.
Shams is more than a media hub—it’s a versatile free zone designed for entrepreneurs across industries. With cost-effective packages, flexible licensing, and no mandatory office space requirements, Shams provides a modern and affordable way to set up your business in the UAE.
With Shams, you benefit from:
- One of the UAE’s most affordable free zones
- 100% foreign ownership and profit repatriation
- 0% corporate and personal income tax
- Licenses covering a wide range of activities
- Ability to combine multiple activities under one license
- No physical office space required for setup
- Fast and paperless company registration
- Strategic location with access to both Sharjah and Dubai markets
Advantages of Shams Free Zone
Benefits of Setting Up Your Business in Sharjah Media City
Shams is designed for entrepreneurs and startups looking for credibility at low cost.
100% Foreign Ownership
0% Personal and Corporate Tax
No restrictions on capital repatriation
Flexible packages for startups and SMEs
Affordable packages for freelancers
Quick digital registration
Licenses covering 120+ activities
Global recognition for media sectors
Have a question?
Get in touch today
Our expert company DMCC consultants in Dubai are always
available to answer your queries.
Types of Business Licenses in Shams
Choose the right license that matches your industry.
Shams Free Zone was established as a dynamic hub for media, creative, and knowledge-based businesses, offering a flexible and cost-effective platform for startups, freelancers, and SMEs. Initially focused on media and entertainment, it has grown to support a wide range of industries including consultancy, IT, digital services, and professional services. Today, Shams provides modern infrastructure, flexible licensing, and streamlined setup solutions, fostering innovation and enabling businesses to scale efficiently in the UAE.
Shams offers flexible licenses designed for creative and service-oriented businesses:
- Service License
For consultancy, professional, and service-based activities.
- Trading License
For import, export, and trading activities.
- Industrial License
For light manufacturing and production businesses.
- Media License
Specifically designed for creative, media, and content-driven firms.
- Holding License
For investment and parent companies managing subsidiaries.
- Freelancer Permit
For individuals offering professional or creative services.
Testimonial
Hear directly from our clients!
Our Partners
Latest News directly
your success
At Upzone Business Consulting FZCO, we’ve built a network of strategic partnerships with the UAE’s leading Free Zones, top-tier banks, and trusted service providers. These relationships are the foundation of our ability to deliver fast, reliable, and compliant business solutions, giving you direct access to the right channels for launching and scaling your business in the UAE.
How can we help?
Freezone license FAQ
Here are a few of the common ones that we get, along with answers to the questions. Contact us if any of your questions are not answered here.
1. How long does it take to set up in Shams?
Setup is fast and typically completed in 1–2 weeks.
2. Can I own 100% of my business in Shams?
Yes. Shams offers full foreign ownership with complete profit repatriation.
3. Is office space required in Shams?
No. Shams allows license issuance without mandatory office space, making it affordable.
4. Is Shams only for media companies?
No. While Shams is focused on media and creative industries, it also covers IT, consultancy, e-commerce, and trading activities.
5. Can freelancers get licensed in Shams?
Yes. Shams offers freelancer permits at competitive prices, making it ideal for individuals.
