Top Business Activities You Can Start in Sharjah Media City (Shams) Free Zone

Sharjah Media City (Shams) is emerging as one of the fastest-growing and entrepreneurial free zones in the UAE. It was established to promote innovation and creativity, while supporting entrepreneurs, freelancers, and established firms in many industries. While its name may draw one to think it is focused on media alone, Shams has broadened its scope, offering a surprisingly rich palette of business activities. Whether you’re a startup or an expanding enterprise, familiarize yourself with the popular business activities in Shams, which can be a key to unlocking giant opportunities for growth and success in the region.

Why Choose Shams for Your Business?

Shams offers compelling advantages for businesses looking to establish a presence in the UAE. Among them is complete foreign ownership with a rather easy and efficient setup process, cost-effective license packages from a very low entry point pricing designed to suit various budgets. A uniquely flexible feature of Shams is that activities can be combined under a single license. It is geographically located right close to both Dubai and Sharjah; Shams, therefore, guarantees perfect access to regional and international markets. Businesses can also choose flexible office options ranging from flexi-desks to shared spaces and virtual offices, thus catering to all possible operating needs.

Popular Business Activities at Shams

At Shams, business activity truly shines because its provisions surely reach far beyond conventional understanding.

• Media & Creative Activities:  Film production, broadcasting, content production, music production, graphic design, animation, and advertising are all included.
• Technology & Digital Activities: From software development, IT service, and e-commerce to digital marketing and app development, Shams supports the fast-growing digital economy.
• Consultancy & Professional Services: Management consulting, HR consultancy, business advisory, marketing consultancy, and legal services are some of the usual favorites.
• Trading & Commercial Activities: Shams will be an attractive location for businesses involved in the import/export of goods, trading in general, and e-commerce trading.
• Freelance Activities: Individual permits are issued for each professional category, including writers, designers, developers, and other creative professionals, thus offering frameworks for independent working.

Step-by-Step Process to Start a Business in Shams

A streamlined, well-designed mechanism is in place for business establishment in Shams.

• Step 1: Choose Business Activity & License Type: Choose a primary business activity and package the suitable license type associated with your needs.
• Step 2: Select a Trade Name: Submit an original name for your company as a trade name in accordance with the guidelines provided by Shams.
• Step 3: Submit Application & Documents: Fill out the application form and submit all necessary documentary requirements, which usually include the passport copies and a brief business plan.
• Step 4: Receive Initial Approval: Once your application is approved, you will be notified regarding the initial approval of your business establishment.
• Step 5: Get Business License Issued: Upon completing all requirements and paying the applicable fees, the business license is issued.
• Optional: You may apply for visas for yourself and your employees and open a corporate bank account.

Arnifi simplifies this whole process by providing expert advice at each step to ensure that the process is smooth and hassle-free.

Cost of Business Setup in Shams

Setting up a business in Shams, however, is very competitive as it has license packages starting from approximately AED 5,750. There are a number of factors that determine your final pricing, among them activity type, the number of activities you want to combine, visa allocation requirements, and the office solution chosen. Arnifi brings about transparency of pricing with custom packages meant to match your specific budget and needs for setting up your business, free of hidden fees.

Benefits of Setting Up in Shams with Arnifi

Partnering with Arnifi for your Shams business setup offers numerous advantages. Arnifi’s team has vast experience in understanding all free zone regulations and works efficiently and compliantly. They also give great guidance on how to choose the right business activity and license type needed for your venture. Arnifi also offers a hassle-free documentation process and entry into licensing processes, making it easy to get rid of your worries. Full support covers all licensing and visas, as well as accounting and compliance thereafter, making sure your business runs like clockwork.

FAQs on Shams Business Activities

1. Can I combine multiple activities under one license in Shams?

Yes. One license can encompass multiple activities by this Shams.

2. What are the most popular activities in Shams for startups?

The most preferred startup business activities in Shams are media, technology, e-commerce, and consultancy.

3. Is Shams only for media companies?

Shams has a wide range of business activities available, not just in media and creative fields.

4. Do I need office space to start a business in Shams?

No. Shams offers flexible options, including virtual offices and flex-desks.

5. Can freelancers apply for a Shams license?

Yes, Shams has dedicated freelance permits for different professionals.

Conclusion

Situated in one of the most welcoming and multifaceted free zones of the UAE, Sharjah Media City (Shams) is designed for all forms of business activities to accommodate every entrepreneur and company. Bringing together ease of access, low cost, and flexibility, it is the perfect option for establishing or expanding your business.

Reinforce Arnifi as your trusted partner to make your journey smooth and a successful setup journey. With Arnifi’s professional guidance and complete assistance, you can undertake this journey with confidence.

Get in touch with Arnifi today to know about some popular Shams business activities and set up your business with ease.