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SMC Free Zone Company Setup

Planning to Start a business in the UAE. For all startups Sharjah Media City (SMC) Free Zone can be their first choice as this freezone provides more than 2000 business activities, here entrepreneurs can combine multiple business activities under one business licence with multiple visa options at a very economical pricing. Perfectly established business hubs for companies who prefer trading of products, E-commerce business, consultancy and professional services.

About Us

What is SMC?

SMC freezone has been operating in the emirates of Sharjah, UAE for many years with a great track record of satisfied company. They offer a wide range of business activities with a budget friendly solution that can provide a great support to convert your planning in to reality. Many companies require multiple visas for employees, prefers SMC freezone as they provide vide range of business packages to fulfill business requirement without any requirement of physical office.

Essential Features

Why Choose SMC Free Zone for Business Setup?

Located in UAE, it gives client based in UAE or international market a trust that they are working with a well compliant company, so that even a new startup gets opportunity to approach top client’s due to strategic location, accessible to nearly all types of legal commercial operations, and business-friendly regulations.

1. 100% Foreign Ownership

SMC Free Zone allows full foreign ownership without the need for a local sponsor or partner. This gives business owners complete control over operations, profits, and strategic decisions.

2. Office Lease agreement with all business licence.

All licence issued by SMC freezone include office lease.

3. Zero paid share capital

There is no need to deposit any share capital in company bank account.

4. Flexible office solutions

SMC offers flexible office options to suit different business needs, from start-ups requiring compact solutions to established companies seeking larger spaces.

5. Suitable for start-ups, SMEs and established businesses

SMC supports businesses at every stage, making it suitable for new ventures, growing SMEs expanding into the UAE.

Licensing Options

Type of Business Licenses in SMC Free Zone

Commercial Licence

Enables businesses to trade, import, export and distribute goods across UAE free zones and international markets.

Service Licence

Ideal for consultancy, advisory and professional service providers offering expertise across management, marketing, technology and business support.

Industrial Licence

Suitable for manufacturing, processing, assembly and light industrial activities, subject to free zone and regulatory approvals.

General Trading Licence

Allows companies to trade, import, export, store and distribute multiple product categories under one flexible UAE business licence.

Corporate Setup

Company Structures Available in SMC

Limited Liability Company(LLC)

A Free Zone Limited Liability Company is a similar structure like Limited Liability company in Mainland owned by one or more than one shareholder with a distinct legal entity and an independent financial liability.****

Branch of a Foreign Company

It is a registered licence extension of an existing international company. It isn’t a separate legal entity, which means the parent company retains 100% ownership, full legal liability, and conducts business under the parent's exact name.

Branch of a UAE Company

It is a registered extension of an existing UAE mainland or free zone entity. Unlike a newly setup subsidiary business licence, it shares the exact same legal identity, license name (suffixed with "DMCC Branch"), and corporate liabilities as its parent company.****

Requirements

Documents Required for SMC Company Formation

Certified Passport copy of each shareholder, director, and manager

UAE residence visa copy and Emirates ID copy of each shareholder, director, and manager (If available)

Proposed company name

Selected Business Activities

Simple Setup

Company setup process in SMC

SMC Freezone has become a go to destination for entrepreneurs. We will walk you through the whole process clearly.

Choose Your Business Activity

Select from more than 1500 permitted business activities
You can combine commercial, professional, and consultancy activities under one license

Choose Your Business Structure or type of company

LLC (Limited Liability Company) – the most common choice
Branch of an Existing Company – ideal for international or local expansions

Pre-Approval process

To check the with authorities regarding documents mentioned below will approved to start the incorporation process.

Certified Passport Copy Submission
Proposed name for the company

Structuring the Legal Entiry

Submission of final Article of Association, Shareholder agreement(If aplicable) and a proof of share capital
Zero Share capital need to deposit

Apply for Your Trade License

Submit the online application and required documents to the SMC Free Zone Authority
You can apply for commercial, consultancy, or media licenses based on your activity

Office Space

Depending on Business activities and client requirement, multiple office options in Sharjah publishing city freezone.

Receive Your License and Start Operations

Once approved, you'll receive your business license, bank account introduction letter, establishment card and visas.

Pricing

SMC business setup Packages

Starting Price

AED

SMC freezone company licence
Office Lease agreement included
E Channel Registration
Establishment Card
1 Visa allocation
One UAE residency visa included Medical Test, Emirates ID application, change of status
Complimentary true copy of the resolution

Premium Package

AED

SMC freezone company licence
Office Lease agreement included
E Channel Registration
Establishment Card
2 Visa allocation
Two UAE residency visa included Medical Test, Emirates ID application, change of status
Complimentary true copy of the resolution

Comprehensive Services

SMC business activity

General Trading

Marketing & Media

Marketing consultancy

Project Management Consultancy

IT and Electronics Trading

Office and Stationery Supplies Trading

Foodstuff Trading

Textiles, Clothing, and Footwear Wholesale

Information Technology (IT)

Education & Training

Accounting & Bookkeeping

Broadcasting

E-commerce Trading

Online Services

Learn More

Sharjah Media City (Shams) Free Zone FAQs

1. What is SHAMS Free Zone?

SHAMS Free Zone, officially known as Sharjah Media City, is a government-established free zone in the Emirate of Sharjah. It was created to support entrepreneurs, freelancers, start-ups and established businesses, particularly within the media, creative, digital and technology sectors. Today, SHAMS welcomes companies from a wide range of industries by offering flexible licensing solutions, modern infrastructure and a business-friendly regulatory framework.

2. Why should I establish my business in SHAMS Free Zone?

SHAMS Free Zone offers an attractive environment for businesses seeking a cost-effective and efficient company formation process in the UAE. Entrepreneurs benefit from 100% foreign ownership, competitive licensing packages, flexible office solutions and access to a growing community of creative professionals and innovative businesses. Its simplified incorporation process makes it an appealing choice for both new ventures and international companies.

3. Which business licences are available in SHAMS Free Zone?

SHAMS Free Zone offers several licence categories, including Service, Trading and Industrial licences. Businesses can select one or multiple approved activities under their licence, allowing them to operate across different sectors where permitted. This flexibility enables companies to diversify their services while maintaining a single legal entity.

4. What business activities are permitted in SHAMS Free Zone?

SHAMS Free Zone supports a broad range of approved business activities, including digital marketing, advertising, media production, software development, graphic design, photography, consultancy, e-commerce, education, publishing, business management, information technology and general trading. Companies should ensure that their selected activities align with SHAMS licensing regulations.

5. Is SHAMS Free Zone suitable for digital entrepreneurs?

Yes. SHAMS Free Zone is particularly well suited to digital entrepreneurs, online businesses and technology-driven companies. Businesses involved in digital marketing, software development, content creation, web design, mobile applications and online consultancy often choose SHAMS because of its flexible licensing options and supportive business ecosystem.

6. Can a foreign investor own 100% of a SHAMS Free Zone company?

Yes. SHAMS Free Zone permits full foreign ownership, allowing international entrepreneurs and investors to establish and operate their businesses without the need for a local shareholder. This provides greater control over business decisions and long-term strategic planning.

7. How quickly can a company be incorporated in SHAMS Free Zone?

The incorporation process in SHAMS Free Zone is designed to be straightforward and efficient. Once all required documentation has been submitted and approved, many businesses can receive their licence within a few working days, depending on the selected business activities and regulatory requirements.

8. Can I operate an online business through SHAMS Free Zone?

Yes. SHAMS Free Zone provides an excellent platform for online businesses, including e-commerce companies, digital agencies, educational platforms and technology service providers. Businesses can serve customers locally and internationally, provided they comply with the applicable laws and industry-specific regulations.

9. Does SHAMS Free Zone provide flexible office solutions?

Yes. SHAMS Free Zone offers a variety of workspace options designed to accommodate businesses of different sizes. Companies may choose from shared workspaces, private offices or larger commercial facilities depending on their operational needs. Every registered business must maintain an approved address within the free zone.

10. Can SHAMS Free Zone companies obtain UAE residence visas?

Yes. Businesses registered in SHAMS Free Zone may sponsor UAE residence visas for shareholders, directors and eligible employees. The number of visas available depends on the licence package, office facilities and compliance with UAE immigration requirements.

11. Is SHAMS Free Zone suitable for creative professionals?

Absolutely. SHAMS Free Zone was established with a strong focus on supporting creative industries. It is particularly popular among content creators, filmmakers, designers, photographers, publishers, advertising agencies, digital marketers and media production companies seeking a professional business environment within the UAE.

12. Can a SHAMS Free Zone company work with clients across the UAE?

Yes. SHAMS Free Zone companies can provide professional services to clients throughout the UAE, subject to the relevant legal and regulatory requirements. Businesses involved in trading physical goods should ensure compliance with customs procedures and any mainland trading regulations where applicable.

13. What documents are required to establish a company in SHAMS Free Zone?

Applicants generally need to provide passport copies of shareholders, proof of residential address, passport-sized photographs and completed application forms. Additional documentation may be required for corporate shareholders or regulated business activities, depending on the nature of the proposed business.

14. Can a SHAMS Free Zone company open a corporate bank account?

Yes. After obtaining the company's incorporation documents and trade licence, businesses may apply to open a corporate bank account with a UAE financial institution. Banks conduct their own compliance reviews and may request detailed information regarding the company's ownership, activities and source of funds.

15. Why is SHAMS Free Zone a preferred destination for start-ups and SMEs?

SHAMS Free Zone combines affordability, operational flexibility and a straightforward company formation process, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs and growing businesses. Its emphasis on innovation, creative industries and digital transformation enables businesses to establish a professional presence while benefiting from a supportive commercial environment and scalable business solutions.

Why Choose OneHub Partners for SMC Company Formation?

OneHub Partners understand that every business is different and require high level expertise to ensure the complete process is the up-to-date and fully compliant. They focus on company law compliance, board procedures, director responsibilities, shareholder relations, financial compliance and legal requirements. This allows business owners to manage their companies with ease while focusing on their core business operations.

Start Your SMC Company Today

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