What documents does an Indian national need to start a graphic design business in the UAE?

You will need a valid India passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in India, attested documents via MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), and a business plan for your graphic design venture.

How long does it take for an Indian citizen to set up a graphic design 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 much does it cost to set up a Graphic Design business in Sharjah Media City?

The total setup cost for a Graphic Design business in SHAMS starts from approximately AED 6,150 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 3,200 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

What documents do I need to set up a Graphic Design business in SHAMS?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my SHAMS Graphic Design licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from SHAMS, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

How long does it take to get a Graphic Design licence in SHAMS?

The typical processing time for a graphic design 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.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Graphic Design company in Sharjah Media City?

Yes, SHAMS allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

Graphic Design in Sharjah Media City for Indian nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Graphic Design in SHAMS

Starting From

AED 6,150

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Sharjah

About Graphic Design

As an Indian national looking to establish a Graphic Design business in Sharjah Media City, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. India has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Indian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Sharjah's commercial laws, your Graphic Design 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 graphic design 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 Graphic Design?

There are several compelling reasons why Sharjah Media City continues to attract graphic design entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers budget-friendly from aed 6,150, which is particularly valuable for graphic design 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 graphic design professionals. Furthermore, no physical office requirement positions your graphic design 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 Indian nationals specifically, the Sharjah government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Indian 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 Indian Nationals

For Indian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days. For business setup, a proper residence visa is required. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your graphic design business in SHAMS.

Banking for Indian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your graphic design company in SHAMS: Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks. Many banks have dedicated Indian business desks. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Indian business structures.

Document Attestation for Indian Nationals

Document attestation for Indian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in India, (2) Attestation by MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to graphic design businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid India passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by MEA (Ministry of External Affairs)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Signed application form from SHAMS authority

7Passport-sized photographs with white background

8Completed application form for trade licence

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 graphic design business plan and the best SHAMS licence options for Indian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from India through MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the graphic design 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. Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks.

Start Operations

Your graphic design 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 Indian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Graphic Design in Other Jurisdictions

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