What documents does an Indian national need to start a web development 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 web development venture.

How long does it take for an Indian citizen to set up a web development 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.

What are the tax implications for a Web Development 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.

What documents do I need to set up a Web Development 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.

How long does it take to get a Web Development licence in SHAMS?

The typical processing time for a web development 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 I open a corporate bank account with my SHAMS Web Development 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 Web Development company in SHAMS?

Most of the setup process for a web development 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.

Web Development in Sharjah Media City for Indian nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Web Development in SHAMS

Starting From

AED 6,150

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Sharjah

About Web Development

The UAE continues to attract Indian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and SHAMS is one of the most popular jurisdictions for web development operations. Largest expatriate community in the UAE (~3.5 million), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Sharjah Media City gives your Web Development business access to Sharjah's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. The Web Development activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up web development businesses in Sharjah Media City since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why SHAMS for Web Development?

Choosing SHAMS for your web development business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

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

Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days. For business setup, a proper residence visa is required. Once your web development 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 Indian Business Owners

Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks. Many banks have dedicated Indian business desks. For your web development business in SHAMS, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Indian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any India-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Indian Nationals

Indian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through MEA (Ministry of External Affairs). This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for web development), 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 India passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by MEA (Ministry of External Affairs)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Completed application form for trade licence

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Passport-sized photographs with white background

7Signed application form from SHAMS authority

8Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

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 web development 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 web development 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 web development 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.

Web Development in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

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DIFC

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Abu Dhabi DED

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JAFZA

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Dubai DED

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DMCC

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IFZA

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