Suppose you seek a cost-effective, business-friendly, globally connected zone for your media, publishing, or creative venture. In that case, Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC) might be the perfect choice. Located in the cultural capital of the UAE, SPC is the world’s first publishing-free zone, offering unmatched benefits for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and global companies.
📍 What is Sharjah Publishing City (SPC)?
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone is a unique business hub that combines the benefits of a publishing ecosystem with the facilities of a free zone. Established to promote the media, publishing, printing, and creative industries, SPC is open to over 1,500 business activities, making it ideal for a wide range of sectors, not just publishing.
Whether you want to start a media agency, a consultancy, a trading business, or a tech startup, SPC Free Zone provides a flexible and affordable platform to launch and grow your business in the UAE.
🌟 Why Choose SPC Free Zone?
Here are the top reasons why Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone stands out among UAE free zones:
✅ 100% Foreign Ownership
There is no need for a local sponsor or partner. You have full ownership of your business.
✅ Quick and Easy Setup
Your license can be issued within 1–2 working days, and many packages don’t even require a physical presence in the UAE.
✅ Wide Range of Business Activities
SPC offers over 1,500 approved activities — from consultancy and e-commerce to IT, publishing, and marketing.
✅ Dual-License Option
You can operate in local and international markets with a dual license (mainland + free zone).
✅ No Paid-Up Capital Required
You don’t need to show any capital deposit — making it easy and affordable to start.
✅ Cost-Effective Office & Co-Working Solutions
SPC offers scalable options based on your needs and budget, from shared desks to private offices.
🧾 Business Activities Allowed at SPC
Despite being known as a publishing hub, SPC allows diverse activities, including:
- Media and Advertising Agencies
- Book Publishing, Editing, and Printing
- IT Services & Software Development
- General Trading & E-commerce
- Digital Marketing & SEO Services
- Management Consultancy
- Educational Services
- Freelance Work Permits
This makes it an attractive option for non-publishing businesses as well.
🏢 License Packages Offered by SPC
SPC Free Zone offers multiple business license packages tailored to startups, freelancers, SMEs, and international investors:
1. Zero Visa Package
Perfect for solo entrepreneurs or freelancers operating remotely.
2. 1-6 Visa Packages
Ideal for companies planning to bring employees to the UAE.
3. General Trading License
It gives you the right to trade multiple unrelated products under one license.
4. E-commerce License
Helps online sellers operate legally across the UAE and beyond.
All packages include company incorporation, a business license, a lease agreement, and access to office facilities.
📋 Steps to Register a Company in the SPC Free Zone
Setting up your business in the SPC Free Zone is simple:
- Choose Business Activity
- Select License Package
- Submit Required Documents
- Get Trade Name Approval
- Pay the License Fee
- Receive Business License & Documents
The entire process can be done remotely and, in most cases, within 1-2 business days.
📄 Required Documents
You’ll only need minimal documentation:
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photo
- Entry visa or Emirates ID (if applicable)
- Preferred trade name
No NOC or attested degrees are required for most activities.
💰 SPC Free Zone License Cost
Pricing is highly competitive and transparent:
Package TypeStarting From (AED)
Zero Visa Package 5,750/year
One Visa Package 9,000/year
General Trading 13,500/year
Dual License Option Available on Request
Note: Pricing varies depending on business activity and visa eligibility.
🌐 Dual License Advantage
With SPC’s dual license option, you can apply for a mainland license and your free zone license — allowing you to do business directly with clients in the UAE mainland without setting up a separate branch.
🧠 Who Should Set Up in SPC Free Zone?
SPC is ideal for:
- Creative professionals and writers
- Entrepreneurs launching startups or e-commerce businesses
- Consultants and freelancers
- International companies seeking a UAE base
- Budget-conscious founders who want a fast setup and zero bureaucracy
📣 Final Thoughts
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone is more than just a hub for writers and publishers. It’s a full-fledged business community built for the future of work — remote, flexible, and globally connected.
Whether starting your journey or expanding your presence in the UAE, SPC Free Zone is an innovative, efficient, and affordable solution for your business setup needs.
