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SPC Free Zone

A Sharjah free zone that began as a hub for publishing and media and now licenses a broad range of business activities.

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Overview

SPC Free Zone (Sharjah Publishing City) is in Al Zahia, Sharjah, the emirate next to Dubai. It was established in 2017 under the patronage of Sharjah's Ruler as a free zone for publishing, printing and media, and it now offers a broad range of trading, service and professional activities as well.

It is often considered by founders who want a straightforward free zone company and do not need a Dubai address. Your company and visas are registered in Sharjah. For most founders this changes little day to day, but it is worth checking that it suits your clients and your bank.

Good for

  • Publishing, media and creative businesses
  • Freelancers, consultancies and small service businesses
  • E-commerce and trading businesses that sell internationally
  • Founders who do not need a Dubai address

Things to consider

  • Your company address is in Sharjah, not Dubai, which matters to some clients
  • Flexi-desk packages come with a limited visa allocation
  • Selling directly to UAE mainland customers usually needs a distributor, a mainland branch or a specific permit
  • Regulated activities need extra approvals

Fees, packages and visa quotas change often; we confirm current figures in your consultation.

Common questions

Is SPC Free Zone only for publishers?

No. It started with publishing, printing and media, but it now licenses a broad range of trading, service and professional activities.

Can I live in Dubai with an SPC company visa?

A UAE residence visa issued in Sharjah generally allows you to live in any emirate, including Dubai. Some processes, such as certain bank or tenancy requirements, can differ, so we check your situation during the consultation.

Do I need an office in SPC?

Many small companies start with a shared or co-working option. If you need more visas, a larger office may be required. Visa allocation depends on your package and office.

Can I set up an SPC company online?

Yes. You apply online, SPC Free Zone verifies the application, and the licence and company documents are issued digitally. You still need to be in the UAE for residence visa steps, such as the medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics, and most banks want to meet you before opening an account.

Does SPC suit trading or e-commerce businesses that hold stock?

It can. Alongside publishing and media, SPC licenses general trading and e-commerce activities, and it offers warehouse and retail space as well as offices. If you import goods, you will also need a customs code. Remember that a free zone company selling to UAE customers still faces the usual limits on trading directly with the mainland.

Guides for choosing and running your company

Sources

Is SPC Free Zone right for you?

Tell us what you sell, who to and how many people you plan to hire. We compare options and confirm current fees and visa quotas.

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Or call +971 52 210 4014 (Mon–Fri, 9 AM – 6 PM)