What documents does a Bangladeshi national need to start a photography business in the UAE?

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

How long does it take for a Bangladeshi citizen to set up a photography 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 Photography licence in SHAMS?

The typical processing time for a photography 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.

Is Sharjah Media City good for photography 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 business activities can I include on my SHAMS licence?

Your SHAMS licence can include photography 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 open a corporate bank account with my SHAMS Photography 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.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Photography company in SHAMS?

Most of the setup process for a photography business in SHAMS can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

Photography in Sharjah Media City for Bangladeshi nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Photography in SHAMS

Starting From

AED 6,150

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Sharjah

About Photography

Setting up a Photography business in Sharjah Media City as a Bangladeshi citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Bangladesh-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Bangladeshi 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 photography 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 Photography?

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 photography 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 photography professionals. Furthermore, no physical office requirement positions your photography 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 Bangladeshi nationals specifically, the Sharjah government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Bangladeshi 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 Bangladeshi Nationals

Bangladeshi nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. Once your photography 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 Bangladeshi Business Owners

Bangladeshi entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation. Some banks may require additional proof of business activity. For your photography business in SHAMS, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Bangladeshi business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Bangladesh-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Bangladeshi Nationals

Bangladeshi nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for photography), 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 Bangladesh passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

6Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

7Signed application form from SHAMS authority

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 photography business plan and the best SHAMS licence options for Bangladeshi nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Bangladesh through Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the photography 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. Bangladeshi nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

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

Start Operations

Your photography 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 Bangladeshi nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Photography in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750