Guide to Company Registration in Shams Freezone

Shams Freezone, also known as Sharjah Media City Freezone, is an attractive hub for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to establish a presence in the UAE. Known for its strategic location and business-friendly environment, Shams Freezone offers numerous advantages for various industries. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the company registration process in Shams Freezone, highlighting key aspects such as business setup,and licensing details.

Why Choose Shams Freezone?

Shams Freezone is designed to cater to the needs of media, technology, and creative industries. Its strategic location in Sharjah provides easy access to both Dubai and the Northern Emirates, making it a prime choice for businesses. The benefits of setting up in Sharjah Media city ie  Shams Freezone include:

• 100% foreign ownership
• Full repatriation of capital and profits
• No personal income tax
• Quick and easy incorporation process

Steps for Company Registration in Sharjah Media City Freezone

1. Determine Your Business Activity

The first step in the Shams Freezone company setup process is to determine the business activity you wish to undertake. Shams Freezone accommodates a wide range of activities, including media, trading, consultancy, and e-commerce.

2. Choose a Company Structure

Choose the legal structure for your business. The common structures include:

• Shams LLC (Limited Liability Company)
• Branch of a Foreign Company

3. Trade Name Reservation

Choose a unique trade name for your company. Ensure that the name complies with Shams Freezone's naming conventions and is not already in use. You can check the availability of your desired name through the Shams Freezone portal.

4. Submit the Application

Prepare the necessary documents and submit your application to Shams Freezone. The required documents typically include:

• Passport copies of the shareholders and directors
• Proof of residence
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the current sponsor .
• Business plan.

5. Obtain Initial Approval

Once your application is reviewed, you will receive initial approval from Shams Freezone. This approval allows you to proceed with the remaining steps of the registration process.

6. Pay the License Fee

Pay the applicable Shams Freezone license cost. The cost varies depending on the type of license and business activity. Shams Freezone offers several license types, including:

• Professional Service License
• Trading License
• Industrial License

7. Lease an Office Space

Depending on your business needs, you may need to lease office space within Shams Freezone. The freezone offers a variety of office solutions, from flexi-desks to fully serviced offices.

8. Collect Your License

After completing the necessary payments and lease agreements, you will receive your Shams Freezone license. This license allows you to legally operate your business within the freezone.

Plan my Firm Business Setup Services

At Plan My Firm ,we  offers comprehensive business setup services to assist companies throughout the registration process. From initial consultation to final licensing. we provides support to ensure a smooth setup  not only in Shams free zone but in other free zones too. To support the smooth operation of businesses, We also  offers a variety of business support services, including: pro services,Business bank account opening ,Residency visas,Commercial contract drafting ,office space for rent and Accounting taxation services.

Shams Freezone Facilities:

Office Solutions

Shams Freezone offers diverse office solutions to accommodate businesses of all sizes. These include:

• Flexi-Desks: Ideal for freelancers and startups, flexi-desks provide a cost-effective workspace solution.
• Dedicated Desks: Suitable for small businesses needing a permanent desk in a shared environment.
• Private Offices: For companies requiring privacy, Shams Freezone provides fully furnished private offices.
• Serviced Offices: Complete office packages with administrative support, ideal for medium to large enterprises.

Visa Regulations in Shams Freezone

Shams Freezone provides comprehensive visa services for business owners and employees. The visa process is streamlined to ensure efficiency and compliance with UAE immigration regulations.

Types of Visas

• Investor Visa: For business owners and investors setting up in Shams Freezone.
• Employment Visa: For employees hired by companies within the freezone.
• Dependent Visa: For family members of investors and employees.

Visa Application Process

The visa application process in Shams Freezone includes the following steps:

1. Application Submission: Submit the required documents and application forms.
2. Medical Examination: Undergo a medical examination as part of the visa requirements.
3. Emirates ID Registration: Register for an Emirates ID, which is mandatory for all residents.
4. Visa Stamping: Get the visa stamped in your passport after completing all formalities.

Business Activities Allowed in Shams Freezone

Shams Freezone supports a wide range of business activities, making it an attractive destination for various industries. Some of the permitted activities include:

• Media and Broadcasting: Production, publishing, and digital media services.
• Information Technology: Software development, IT consultancy, and tech support.
• Consultancy Services: Business consultancy, management consultancy, and financial advisory.
• E-commerce: Online retail, digital marketplaces, and e-services.
• Trading: Import, export, and distribution of goods.
• Event Management: Organizing and managing corporate events, exhibitions, and conferences.

Shams Media City Freezone, or Shams Media Free Zone, is designed to foster growth and innovation in these sectors, offering a supportive environment for businesses to thrive.

Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) Licensing and Costs

Shams Freezone License: The cost of obtaining a Shams Freezone license depends on various factors, including the type of license and the number of business activities. It is important to budget for the Shams license cost and other associated expenses.

Visa and Other Costs: Shams Freezone also offers visa services for company employees. The Shams Freezone visa cost includes the processing fees and medical tests required for visa issuance. Be sure to include these costs in your budget planning.

License Renewal and Cancellation : Renewing your Shams Freezone license is a straightforward process. However, if you decide to cease operations, you must follow the Shams Freezone license cancellation procedure. This involves submitting a cancellation request and settling any outstanding fees.