The landscape of business setup in the UAE is well-positioned to promote the growing e-commerce ecosystem. New entrepreneurs and investors are increasingly turning to the UAE to set up e-commerce startups given the immense potential of the sector. The GCC region has turned out to be a fertile market for e-commerce sales as the pandemic induced a greater reliance on digital shopping among the region’s consumers.
The presence of robust digital infrastructure, large internet penetration rate and excellent logistics are some of the top reasons the UAE is leading the e-commerce boom in the GCC region. When it comes to obtaining an e-commerce license in the UAE, Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) Free Zone stands out from other free zones due to a wide range of reasons. If you are wondering what those reasons could be, read along.
Cost-effective Package for E-commerce
SHAMS provide one of the most cost-effective e-commerce packages in the UAE for entrepreneurs. Setting up a business in SHAMS Free Zone is relatively cheaper with business setup packages starting from AED 11,500. Depending on the business activity, the number of visas and office space requirements, you can choose the right SHAMS business package for company formation in the UAE. The best business setup consultants in the UAE can guide you on this.
Straight Forward Company Formation Process
Entrepreneurs prefer to wind up their incorporation process as fast as possible so that they can start running their businesses. There is no lengthy processes or stringent requirements in SHAMS, which means you don’t need to face any delay. The process of company formation in SHAMS is straightforward and could be completed in less than five steps. Unlike the mainland business setup, you don’t need to chase government departments or officials for special approvals. If you apply through business setup consultants in the UAE, the registration process can be completed faster.
Open to A Broad Range of Business Activities
Though the name of the free zone contains the word ’Media’, you should not think that SHAMS only offers media-related activities. The free zone provides a wide range of business activities including e-commerce activities. The availability of more than 200 activities means the entrepreneurs get to choose the activity of their liking. Consult with company formation specialists in the UAE for getting advice on selecting the right activities.
Flexible Office Space Options
As a startup, what you need is a flex desk in SHAMS to operate your e-commerce business. You won’t require large warehouses as your logistics requirements will be handled by the logistic company with whom you have signed an agreement. You can only sell products in the UAE Mainland through a logistics company due to the restrictions associated with a free zone company.
You can either rent a dedicated desk or a shared desk which are the two co-working options available in SHAMS. The co-working spaces in SHAMS come with all the latest amenities including access to conference rooms. By renting the Flexi desks in SHAMS, you can also network with like-minded entrepreneurs.
Easy to Obtain Visas
You can apply for up to six visas under the Flexi Desk package in SHAMS: for you, and your shareholders or employees under the SHAMS Flexi Desk package. Apart from applying for employee visas, entrepreneurs can also sponsor their dependents as well. You can sponsor the residency visas of your spouse, child, maid or driver. You need to go through the standard procedures such as getting an entry permit, status adjustment, a medical fitness test, then Emirates ID registration and visa stamping. The rules of visa processing are governed by the Immigration laws for which you can seek the assistance of business setup consultants in the UAE.
Consult with the Best Business Setup Consultants in the UAE
SHAMS provides a perfect e-commerce ecosystem for entrepreneurs scouting for the best options of business set up in the UAE. The affordable licenses and business setup packages make the process of company formation in SHAMS ideal for startups and small businesses. SHAMS help entrepreneurs and investors to gain a strong foothold in the UAE by providing access to flexible office spaces solutions as well.
If you are unaware of the laws and other prerequisites, the process may turn out to be complex. However, the top business setup consultants in the UAE such as Jitendra Business Consultants (JBC) can make the company formation easier for you. JBC’s team comprises highly qualified company formation specialists who are well-versed in both the UAE laws and free zone regulations. JBC helps foreign investors steer clear of potential roadblocks they may encounter while initiating business setup in the UAE. JBC assists the investors in securing licenses, visas, and opening a bank account without any hassle.