Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)
Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) is a fast-growing, low-cost free zone popular with media, e-commerce, consultancy and trading businesses and freelancers. Its affordable packages and wide activity list make it a favourite for startups and SMEs. AOPA member firms support SHAMS companies with accounting, audit and UAE Corporate Tax compliance.
Overview
Launched in 2017, SHAMS quickly became one of the most popular free zones for startups, freelancers and SMEs thanks to its low-cost licences and simple online setup. It supports well over a hundred activity types across media, e-commerce, consultancy, services and trading, often combinable on a single licence, and does not require a physical office for many packages.
Who it suits
SHAMS is aimed at media and creative professionals, e-commerce sellers, consultants, marketing and IT service providers, and small traders seeking an affordable UAE base. Its flexible packages and freelancer permits make it particularly attractive to solo founders and cost-conscious small businesses.
Licences and activities
The free zone offers commercial, service, media and freelance licences covering a broad list of activities that can often be grouped together, giving businesses room to diversify. Visa quotas vary by package, including zero-visa options for budget setups, and workspace ranges from shared desks to serviced offices.
Setting up
Steps: (1) select your activities and licence package; (2) reserve the trade name; (3) submit KYC and incorporation documents online; (4) choose a visa quota and workspace option; (5) receive the licence, often within a few days; (6) complete visa, medical and Emirates ID formalities if required.
Accounting and audit requirements
While SHAMS does not always require an audit report for licence renewal, companies must still keep proper accounting records and prepare financial statements. All entities must register for UAE Corporate Tax with the Federal Tax Authority and assess the 0% qualifying free-zone rate, plus VAT where turnover thresholds are met. AOPA member firms provide SHAMS accounting, audit and Corporate Tax services.
Frequently asked questions
Why is SHAMS so popular with startups?
SHAMS offers some of the lowest-cost licence packages in the UAE, fast online setup, multiple activities on one licence and flexible visa options, which suits freelancers, e-commerce sellers and SMEs.
Does SHAMS require an office?
Many SHAMS packages do not require a physical office, though workspace options from shared desks to serviced offices are available depending on visa needs.
Does SHAMS require an annual audit?
SHAMS does not always require an audit report for renewal, but companies must still keep proper records and may need audited accounts for banking and Corporate Tax. AOPA member firms can advise.
Do SHAMS companies pay Corporate Tax?
They are within the UAE Corporate Tax regime and may qualify for 0% on qualifying income where free-zone conditions are met, but must register with the Federal Tax Authority.