IFZA vs SHAMS: which should you choose?
The default choice for consultants and small trading companies that want speed and a low entry price. The cheapest credible route to a UAE licence — and the one most freelancers actually need.
Our verdict
On our criteria, IFZA wins for the most common profile. The default choice for consultants and small trading companies that want speed and a low entry price.
That said, SHAMS remains the right call if: freelancers and solo consultants, content creators and media. Headline price should not decide this alone — visa quota and banking reception usually matter more.
Let's talk about your actual case
A twenty-minute call. We will also tell you if the UAE is the wrong answer for you — it often is.