The United Arab Emirates is one of the most attractive business destinations in the world. Among its many business hubs, Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) stands out as a modern, versatile, and investor-friendly option for entrepreneurs looking to establish their companies.
Whether you’re an international trader, a consultant, a digital entrepreneur, or a publisher, SPC company formation offers a fast, affordable, and efficient pathway to grow your business. With over 2,000 business activities available, entrepreneurs can explore countless opportunities within and beyond publishing.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about SPC Free Zone company formation—from benefits and license types to the step-by-step process, costs, facilities, and solutions for investors.
Why Choose Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone for Company Formation?
The Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone was originally designed to support the publishing and media industry, but today, it’s one of the most diverse free zones in the UAE, welcoming entrepreneurs from multiple sectors.
Key Benefits of SPC Free Zone Business Setup
- 100% foreign ownership with no need for a UAE sponsor.
- Zero corporate and personal tax.
- Repatriation of capital and profits without restrictions.
- Fast company formation, often completed in just 2 hours.
- Over 2,000 business activities to choose from.
- Dual licenses (free zone + mainland) for wider market access.
- Affordable packages tailored for startups, SMEs, and large enterprises.
- Investor and employee visa eligibility with multiple options.
- World-class infrastructure including offices, co-working spaces, and business facilities.
- Strategic location in Sharjah, with close access to Dubai International Airport and Sharjah seaports.
Types of Business Licenses in Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone
Choosing the right license is essential for successful SPC company formation.
Commercial License
Allows businesses to import, export, distribute, and trade goods across industries. Perfect for international traders and retail companies.
Professional/Service License
For companies offering services such as IT, consultancy, design, education, or digital marketing.
E-commerce License
Ideal for online sellers and digital entrepreneurs who want to run an e-commerce store targeting UAE and global markets.
Publishing License
Specialized for businesses in the publishing, media, and printing industry. This includes book publishing, digital publishing, and content production.
General Trading License
Gives businesses freedom to trade multiple products across various categories without restrictions.
Legal Structures Available in SPC Free Zone
Business owners can select from different company structures based on their ownership and expansion needs.
Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
- A single shareholder entity, either individual or corporate.
- Ideal for entrepreneurs running a one-person company.
Free Zone Company (FZC)
- A company with 2 or more shareholders.
- Suitable for partnerships and joint ventures.
Branch Office
- A branch of an existing local or foreign company.
- Allows expansion into the UAE without creating a new legal entity.
Step-by-Step Process of SPC Free Zone Company Formation
Setting up a company in SPC Free Zone is simple and fast. Investors choose their business activity, legal structure, and trade name, then submit documents for approval. With affordable packages and efficient services, business owners can obtain their license and start operations within just a few hours.
Step 1: Select Business Activity
Choose from more than 2,000 activities such as trading, consultancy, publishing, IT, or e-commerce.
Step 2: Choose License Type
Apply for the license that matches your business activity (commercial, service, publishing, e-commerce, or general trading).
Step 3: Decide Company Structure
Select whether to register as an FZE, FZC, or branch office.
Step 4: Trade Name Reservation
Submit trade name options to the SPC authority. The name must be unique and comply with UAE regulations.
Step 5: Submit Documents
- Passport copies of shareholders
- Passport-sized photos
- Visa copy (if applicable)
- Application form
Step 6: Payment and Approval
Pay the licensing fees and sign the incorporation documents.
Step 7: Receive License and Certificate
Within 2 hours, you’ll receive your license, incorporation certificate, and lease agreement to officially start operations.
Office and Facility Options in SPC Free Zone
The Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone offers flexible office solutions for every business size. From cost-effective co-working spaces and flexi-desks for startups to executive offices and warehousing for larger enterprises, SPC provides scalable facilities designed to help companies grow efficiently while maintaining a professional business presence.
Flexi-Desk / Co-working Spaces
Affordable and flexible shared office facilities for startups, freelancers, and consultants.
Dedicated Offices
Private offices with modern amenities, perfect for SMEs and growing companies.
Executive Offices
Premium furnished spaces with additional facilities for established businesses.
Warehousing and Storage
Available for companies involved in trading, logistics, and distribution.
Cost of SPC Free Zone Company Formation
SPC offers affordable setup packages for entrepreneurs of all sizes.
- Basic package: Starts from $2,750 annually (includes license and flexi-desk).
- Publishing license: Cost depends on activities and visa requirements.
- Trading/general trading license: Slightly higher due to activity coverage.
- Multi-year licenses: Discounts available for 2–3 year setups.
Costs may vary depending on the number of visas and office space requirements.
Visas and Residency in SPC Free Zone
One of the biggest advantages of SPC company formation is eligibility for UAE residence visas.
Investor Visa
Available for company owners and shareholders.
Employee Visa
Allows companies to hire staff, with quota based on office size.
Family Sponsorship
Investors can sponsor dependents including spouse, children, and parents.
Bank Account Opening for SPC Free Zone Companies
After incorporation, you can open a corporate bank account in major UAE banks. Requirements include your trade license, incorporation certificate, shareholder documents, and company stamp.
Industries That Benefit from SPC Free Zone
While it started as a publishing hub, SPC now supports a variety of industries:
- Publishing and media
- Consulting and professional services
- E-commerce and digital business
- Import/export trading
- IT and technology companies
- Education and training services
Advantages of SPC Free Zone vs Other Free Zones
- Ultra-fast business setup (within 2 hours).
- Affordable packages compared to Dubai free zones.
- Dual license option (mainland + free zone).
- Wider choice of activities (2,000+).
- Excellent location close to Dubai and Sharjah hubs.
Challenges and Solutions for Investors in SPC Free Zone
Entrepreneurs may face challenges like license selection, banking processes, or regulatory compliance. In SPC Free Zone, these hurdles are resolved by expert advisory services, simplified setup procedures, and scalable infrastructure. With professional support, investors can overcome barriers and smoothly expand their business in the UAE market.
Choosing the Right License
Solution: Consult SPC advisors to match activities with license type.
Banking Hurdles
Solution: Work with consultants who have strong ties with UAE banks.
Understanding Legal Compliance
Solution: Hire local legal and business advisors for compliance support.
Scaling the Business
Solution: Use SPC’s scalable office and facility options for easy expansion.
Conclusion
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone is one of the fastest-growing free zones in the UAE. Its affordable setup, diverse activities, and quick licensing make it the perfect destination for startups, SMEs, and global entrepreneurs. With dual licensing options, visa eligibility, and full foreign ownership, SPC provides the flexibility that modern businesses need.
If you are looking to establish your business in the UAE, Freezone Company Formation in Dubai, UAE remains one of the smartest investments for long-term growth.
FAQs
How long does it take to form a company in SPC Free Zone?
Company setup can be completed within 2 hours if documents are ready.
Can I own 100% of my company in SPC?
Yes, full foreign ownership is allowed.
What types of licenses are available?
Commercial, professional, publishing, e-commerce, and general trading.
Do I need a physical office?
No, flexi-desks and co-working spaces are available for low-cost setups.
Can I get a dual license in SPC Free Zone?
Yes, SPC offers both free zone and mainland dual licenses.
How many business activities can I include in one license?
You can include multiple activities under one license.
Can I sponsor my family with an SPC visa?
Yes, investors can sponsor family members.
What industries thrive in SPC?
Publishing, trading, e-commerce, IT, and consultancy are most common.
Is SPC Free Zone cheaper than Dubai free zones?
Yes, SPC offers more affordable setup packages compared to Dubai.
Can I open a UAE bank account with an SPC license?
Yes, once your company is incorporated, you can open a corporate account.
