Sharjah Media City, also known as Shams, is a rapidly growing free zone in the United Arab Emirates, specifically catering to media, creative, and digital businesses. Established in 2017, Shams has become a magnet for entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs, and established companies seeking a dynamic and cost-effective environment to launch and grow their ventures. This article delves into what Shams offers, its advantages, and why it’s becoming a prime location for businesses in the creative sector.
A World-Class Hub for Innovation
Shams sharjah media city positions itself as a catalyst for innovation and a launchpad for creative businesses. It provides a comprehensive infrastructure and support system designed to nurture ideas and empower entrepreneurs. The free zone offers a variety of benefits, including:
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Cost-Effective Business Setup
Compared to other free zones in the UAE, Shams boasts some of the most affordable business setup packages. This makes it an attractive option for startups and entrepreneurs with limited initial capital.
Unlike some regions in the UAE, Shams allows for complete foreign ownership of businesses established within the free zone. This eliminates the need for local partners, streamlining the setup process for international companies.
The registration process at Shams is designed to be efficient and hassle-free. Many aspects can be completed remotely, minimizing time and effort for investors. The typical registration timeframe is around 7 days.
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Multiple Business Activities
A unique advantage of Shams is the flexibility it offers regarding business activities. Companies can obtain licenses that permit them to engage in various media and creative pursuits under a single license. This eliminates the need for multiple licenses and simplifies business operations.
Strategically situated near Sharjah International Airport and within a short distance of Dubai International Airport, Shams offers excellent connectivity for businesses requiring easy access to transportation hubs.
Beyond Affordability: A Supportive Ecosystem
Shams goes beyond just providing affordable business licenses. It fosters a vibrant ecosystem that supports the growth and success of its tenants. Here are some key aspects of this supportive environment:
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World-Class Infrastructure
Shams offers state-of-the-art office spaces, including shared workspaces and dedicated office units. This caters to businesses of all sizes and preferences.
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Business Support Services
The free zone authority provides a comprehensive range of business support services. This includes assistance with company formation, visa processing, and ongoing business operations.
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Talent Acquisition and Retention
Shams recognizes the importance of attracting and retaining skilled talent. They offer support with visa programs for employees and initiatives designed to create a thriving business community.
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Strong Social Media Presence
Shams maintains a robust online presence, keeping its tenants informed about industry trends, upcoming events, and networking opportunities. This fosters a sense of community and collaboration among businesses within the free zone.
A Diverse Community of Creative Minds
Shams is home to a diverse range of businesses, attracting companies from over 160 countries. This melting pot of creativity fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing. Some of the key industries represented at Shams include:
Film and television production companies, animation studios, and video editing firms find Shams to be a well-equipped and supportive environment.
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Advertising and Marketing
Advertising agencies, digital marketing specialists, and social media consultancies leverage Shams’ infrastructure and location to reach a wider audience.
Graphic designers, web designers, and creative agencies benefit from the collaborative atmosphere and access to talent within Shams.
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Technology and Innovation
Startups and established companies developing innovative technologies in the media and creative space find Shams to be an ideal launchpad.
Conclusion
Sharjah Media City (Shams) has established itself as a leading destination for media, creative, and digital businesses in the UAE. With its cost-effective setup, world-class infrastructure, and supportive ecosystem, Shams empowers entrepreneurs and companies to thrive in a dynamic and collaborative environment. As the creative industries continue to flourish globally, Shams is poised to remain a key player in fostering innovation and shaping the future of media and creative businesses in the region.
