Interior Design in SHAMS
Starting From
AED 6,150
Setup Time
2 Business Days
Visa Quota
3 Visas
Location
Sharjah
About Interior Design
Setting up an Interior Design business in Sharjah Media City offers a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to establish a strong presence in the UAE market.
As a free zone entity regulated under Sharjah's commercial laws, your Interior 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 interior 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 Interior Design?
There are several compelling reasons why Sharjah Media City continues to attract interior design entrepreneurs from around the world.
The jurisdiction offers budget-friendly from aed 6,150, which is particularly valuable for interior 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 interior design professionals. Furthermore, no physical office requirement positions your interior 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.
Requirements & Documents
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 interior design 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. As a non-regulated activity, the documentation requirements are straightforward. 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 interior design 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 interior design 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 total setup cost for an Interior 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.
Interior Design in Other Jurisdictions
Get Started Today
Ready to set up your interior design in SHAMS? Our team is here to help.
SPEAK TO AN ADVISORWHATSAPP USQuick Facts
Official Source
www.shams.ae ↗Popular in SHAMS
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.
Ready to Start Your Interior Design?
Get a personalised quote for setting up your interior design in SHAMS. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.