Accounting & Bookkeeping in SHAMS
Starting From
AED 6,150
Setup Time
2 Business Days
Visa Quota
3 Visas
Location
Sharjah
About Accounting & Bookkeeping
The UAE's thriving economy continues to attract investors from around the world, and Sharjah Media City stands out as a premier destination for Accounting & Bookkeeping businesses.
As a free zone entity regulated under Sharjah's commercial laws, your Accounting & Bookkeeping business will benefit from budget-friendly from aed 6,150 and fast setup process. The SHAMS licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 6,150.
With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your accounting & bookkeeping setup in SHAMS. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.
Why SHAMS for Accounting & Bookkeeping?
There are several compelling reasons why Sharjah Media City continues to attract accounting & bookkeeping entrepreneurs from around the world.
The jurisdiction offers budget-friendly from aed 6,150, which is particularly valuable for accounting & bookkeeping operations. Additionally, fast setup process ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 2,500 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 3 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. 100% foreign ownership further enhances the appeal of SHAMS for accounting & bookkeeping professionals. Furthermore, no physical office requirement positions your accounting & bookkeeping business for long-term success in the region. With Sharjah continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, SHAMS remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.
Requirements & Documents
Regulatory Note: Accounting & Bookkeeping is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Ministry of Economy is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| License Fee | 6,150 |
| Visa Package (per visa) | 3,200 |
| Flexi Desk | 2,500 |
| Shared Office | 6,000 |
| Private Office | 15,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 11,850 |
* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.
Setup Timeline
Initial Consultation
Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your accounting & bookkeeping business objectives, optimal licence structure, and SHAMS as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.
Choose Your Company Name
Select your company name and submit it for approval. SHAMS has specific naming guidelines — the name must not conflict with existing registrations and should reflect your business activity. IBA handles the name reservation process.
Prepare & Submit Documents
Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. For accounting & bookkeeping, additional documents including professional qualifications and Ministry of Economy approvals are required. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.
Obtain Trade Licence
Your SHAMS trade licence is issued within 2 business days of document submission. The licence authorises you to conduct accounting & bookkeeping activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 6,150.
Apply for Residence Visa
Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Your SHAMS licence includes 3 visa allocation. Each visa costs approximately AED 3,200. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.
Open Corporate Bank Account
With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.
Start Operations
With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your accounting & bookkeeping business in Sharjah Media City is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.
Total estimated time: 2 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
The typical processing time for a accounting & bookkeeping licence at SHAMS is 2 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring Ministry of Economy approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.
Accounting & Bookkeeping in Other Jurisdictions
Get Started Today
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Official Source
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By IBA Business Setup Team
Last updated: 26 February 2026
International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.
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