What documents does a Filipino national need to start a digital marketing business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Philippines passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Philippines, attested documents via Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and a business plan for your digital marketing venture.

How long does it take for a Filipino citizen to set up a digital marketing company in SHAMS?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 2–5 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 12–22 business days.

How long does it take to get a Digital Marketing licence in SHAMS?

The typical processing time for a digital marketing licence at SHAMS is 2 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.

What business activities can I include on my SHAMS licence?

Your SHAMS licence can include digital marketing as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Most free zones allow multiple activities on a single licence, though some may charge a small fee for additional activities. IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

Can I get a residence visa with my Digital Marketing licence from SHAMS?

Yes, your digital marketing licence from SHAMS entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 3 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 3,200.

Is Sharjah Media City good for digital marketing start-ups?

SHAMS is one of the most start-up-friendly jurisdictions in the UAE, offering budget-friendly from aed 6,150 and fast setup process. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 2,500 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

What are the tax implications for a Digital Marketing business in Sharjah Media City?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in SHAMS may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Digital Marketing in Sharjah Media City for Filipino nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Digital Marketing in SHAMS

Starting From

AED 6,150

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Sharjah

About Digital Marketing

Setting up a Digital Marketing business in Sharjah Media City as a Filipino citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Philippines-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Filipino business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at SHAMS has been streamlined significantly, with most professional licences processed within 2 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 6,150, making it one of the most affordable options in the UAE.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your digital marketing business in Sharjah Media City. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why SHAMS for Digital Marketing?

Sharjah Media City is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for professional businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers budget-friendly from aed 6,150, which is particularly valuable for digital marketing 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 digital marketing professionals. Furthermore, no physical office requirement positions your digital marketing 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.

For Filipino nationals specifically, the Sharjah government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Filipino business community.

Budget-friendly from AED 6,150

Fast setup process

100% foreign ownership

No physical office requirement

Media and creative focus

Visa Requirements for Filipino Nationals

Filipino nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. Once your digital marketing licence is issued by SHAMS, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 7–14 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Filipino Business Owners

Filipino entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation. A solid business plan helps expedite the process. For your digital marketing business in SHAMS, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Filipino business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Philippines-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Filipino Nationals

Filipino nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for digital marketing), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to SHAMS.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Philippines passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Detailed business plan or activity description

7Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

8Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

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

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your digital marketing business plan and the best SHAMS licence options for Filipino nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Philippines through Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the digital marketing licence application to SHAMS. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official SHAMS trade licence within 2–5 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Filipino nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Filipino entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation.

Start Operations

Your digital marketing business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 2 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. SHAMS allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Filipino nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Digital Marketing in Other Jurisdictions

DIC

From AED 15,000

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750

DSO

From AED 12,000