What lies ahead of Sharjah Media City (Shams)

Sharjah Media City (Shams) was launched in January 2017 and started issuing licenses in March of the same year. With over 2,000 companies incorporating their business in Shams, it is also considered the fastest growing free zone in the UAE.

Shams aims to allow more access to aspiring entrepreneurs who wish to stand out in the creative and media sectors. Although the title of the city might suggest that it’s restricted to media activities, Shams welcomes entrepreneurs who are talented in a variety of sectors.

In an interview with Khaleej Times, Chairman of Sharjah Media City (Shams), HE Dr. Khalid Omar Al Midfa said: "We are keen to support upcoming young talents by sponsoring projects for university students and supporting initiatives that expand the youth sector in the UAE and develop their perceptions and knowledge. Shams will provide facilities to companies and graduates to start their businesses, not necessarily in media. We will also offer facilities to the training companies that will train the youth to compete in the job market.”

Shams will also be the first free zone to go digital in executing its processes to cope with the technological advancement in the world. However, Shams is currently located in a temporary office that offers its clients the shared desk facility where they can run their companies. The construction of Shams will commence in 2018, making a wider range of business activities available for future entrepreneurs. Also, business owners will be offered more facility options from which they can choose what best suits their business requirements. In addition to the office spaces, Shams will provide creative units, like showrooms, studios and community areas, to instill innovation and creativity amongst its members.

Sharjah Media City (Shams) is a free zone that offers licenses to entrepreneurs and business owners who wish to start or extend their businesses. Yet, the city will not be limited to office buildings and workspaces for the companies. It will go beyond that to include residential, educational and entertainment facilities, together contributing to the overall economy of the emirate of Sharjah. Hotels, parks, cafes and hospitals are some of the many facilities to be constructed in Shams.

The future Shams will integrate working and residential environments to form a city where members can find everything they need.