Understanding SPC Free Zone Company Setup

Are you looking for an expert to help you in the process of SPC Free Zone Company Setup? Enterslice is just one call away to assist you in obtaining SPC Free Zone Company Registration seamlessly. The Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPCFZ) is one of the UAEโ€™s latest and most dynamic Free Zones, with its headquarters located in Al Zahia, Sharjah.

While the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone is specially designed for publishers, authors, and media and information technology businesses, it offers licenses for diverse business activities such as publishing, printing, e-commerce, and consultancies.

It has a strategic location, just 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport and its business-friendly policies have made the Business Setup in Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone a preferable choice among entrepreneurs across the globe, especially for those looking to establish and expand in the Middle East and beyond.

100% Foreign Ownership

No Paid-up Capital Requirement

License Issued within 1 to 3 Days

Unlimited Visas for Flexi-desk

2000+ Business Activities

Free Name Check

Enterslice Makes Business Setup in SPC Free Zone a Smooth, Joyride

Start your company in one of the UAEโ€™s most business-friendly free zones and enjoy a smooth, hassle-free incorporation process of business setup in SPC Free Zone with Enterslice's expert-led support.

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What are the Types of Licenses for SPC Free Zone Company Registration?

The different types of licenses for SPC free zone company registration are as follows:

Commercial licenses

A commercial license is one of those licenses that allows you to trade goods for both importing and exporting, distributing, or selling within the UAE free zones. Typically, it is ideal for businesses dealing in physical products or multiple trading activities.

Service license

A service license is categorically made for businesses that offer professional consultancy services like IT services, marketing agencies, management consulting, training services and many other service-based activities.

E-commerce license

An e-commerce license is suitable for entrepreneurs operating existing online stores or digital selling platforms. This license helps you to sell products online, manage digital marketplaces, and operate internet-based businesses legally and smoothly.

General trading license

A general trading license gives you the flexibility to trade a wide variety of products without restrictions on categories. It further provides a great option for businesses dealing in multiple product lines or mixed goods.

Publishing license

Since the SPC free zone is specifically designed for publishing and media, it offers a special license for publishing houses, printing activities, content creation, book distribution and other media-related services. Further, SPC allows you to combine multiple business activities from different categories under a single license.

What are the Benefits of SPC Free Zone Company Setup?

The list of benefits of SPC Free Zone Company Setup is as follows:

Availability of a dual license

Availability of a dual license

One of the most significant features of SPC free zone company setup is that it provides a unique option to apply for a Dual License, which includes a free zone license (issued by SPC) and a mainland license (issued by the Sharjah Economic Development Department- SEDD).

While, a company can enjoy 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions, while also being able to trade directly with the mainland market across UAE without needing a local distributor or a separate mainland office.

Ultra-fast company setup

Ultra-fast company setup

One of the main highlights is that the Business Setup in Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone is its speed of company setup. Most of the applicant entrepreneurs receive their business license within a single day.

Cost-effective packages

Cost-effective packages

SPC free zone offers the most affordable business setup packages in the UAE. Whether, you are starting a small or planning to scale your business operations, the pricing is budget friendly as compared to other free zones.

Exclusive Rights

Exclusive Rights

The SPC free zones provides a generous visa allocation and is known for its ability to issue large number of visas (up to 20 visas on select packages), which is crucial for companies with growth ambitions.

Strategic location

Strategic location

SPC is strategically located in Sharjah but sits close to Dubai, offering easy access to clients, suppliers and key business hubs without high costs. It is one of the benefits of SPC free zone company setup.

Multi-year license options

Multi-year license options

SPC free zone also allows the businesses to choose licenses for 1, 2 or 3 years depending upon their needs. This is a great option for entrepreneurs who are looking to save on renewal costs or avoid yearly paperwork. Further, a multi-year license is also available for those looking for a long-term plan.

100% foreign ownership

100% foreign ownership

At SPC, 100% foreign ownership is allowed, which can be fully owned by expatriates, eliminating the need for a local partner.

Banking Simplicity

Banking Simplicity

It facilitates banking simplicity; thus, it is easy to open a bank account for streamlined businesses within the SPC free zone. It is one of the significant benefits of SPC free zone company setup.

What are the Types of Business Structures for SPC Free Zone Company Setup?

The different types of Business Structures for SPC Free Zone Company Setup are as follows:

  • Free Zone Establishment (FZE) :- A Free Zone Establishment is a single shareholder company, owned by either an individual or a corporate entity. It is suitable for setting up a standalone legal entity in the SPC Free Zone. This structure allows 100% foreign ownership and offers limited liability, thereby protecting the personal assets of the shareholder.
  • Free Zone Company :- A Free Zone Company can have multiple shareholders (up to 7), including individuals, corporate entities, or both. It allows 100% foreign ownership with limited liability protection. Compared to an FZE, this structure is more complex and is ideal for partnerships or ventures involving multiple investors, offering flexibility in capital investment and risk sharing.
  • Branch of a Company :- A branch company in the SPC Free Zone can be either a local or an international branch. A local branch allows UAE-based companies to expand their operations, while an international branch enables foreign companies to establish a presence in the UAE through the SPC Free Zone.

How to Apply for SPC Free Zone Company Setup?

The step-by-step procedure for SPC Free Zone Company Setup is as follows:

Apply for a Trade Name

Firstly, the applicant needs to select a unique, strong, memorable business name that resonates with customers and establishes their identity. The chosen name should be unique, easy to remember, and must include the legal form of the entity (LLC, FZE, FZC, etc.).

This business name should be in adherence to local cultural norms and regulations, and it should not contain references to any governing authority, emirates, the UAE, or any religious terms that might violate public morals or order.

Apply for Your Trade License

Secondly, you need to apply for a trade license as per your business needs; therefore, it is important to understand the nature and category of your business to leverage the maximum benefits offered in the SPC Free Zone.

Select an Office Space

Thirdly, you will have to select the office spaces in alignment with your business requirements. Whether you prefer to rent or purchase, you can find a space that accommodates your staff and aligns with the service requirements.

Register Your Business

This stage is the final step that involves submitting an appropriate application along with the necessary documentation and trade license through the SPC Free Zone login. For this, you need to complete the required paperwork and pay the associated registration and licensing fees.

Establishment Card and Visa Processing

Here, you need to apply for an establishment card from the UAE immigration authorities. For this, you need to process visas for yourself (if needed), your employees, and dependents. Followed by submitting visa applications, undergoing medical testing, and obtaining a UAE ID and labour cards.

Open a Corporate Bank Account

In this stage, you need to open a corporate bank account suitable for your business needs. For this, you need to file an application to open a corporate account with the concerned bank, along with documents such as the companyโ€™s Sharjah publishing city license, passport copies of the shareholders, and the company memorandum.

Start Operations

Lastly, once you receive the Company Registration in SPC Free Zone certificate, you can set up your office and accordingly market your services or products and commence business operations under the guidance and regulations of the SPC Free Zone.

What are the Available Office Options for Company Registration in SPC Free Zone?

The list of available offices options for company registration in SPC free zone is as follows:

Co-Working Spaces

A co-working space is basically made of a collaborative environment, allowing like-minded professionals to network and share ideas. It provides a cost-effective solution with all the necessary office amenities, mostly ideal for freelancers, entrepreneurs and startups.

Serviced Offices

A serviced office is suitable for businesses that wants a ready-to-use space without the hassle of setting up each aspect individually. These offices are fully furnished and equipped with essential services like internet, telephony and administrative support.

Shell and Core offices

A shell and core office is a customizable office space providing a blank canvas. These spaces are essentially bare and can be fitted as per the needs of a tenant and according to their specific design and layout requirements.

Retail spaces

Retail office spaces are for businesses that directly sell to their respective customers. These are suitable for shops, cafes and other retail outlets, providing businesses with direct access to their customers based within the free zone.

Warehouses and Storage areas

Warehouses and storage areas are for businesses that require storage for inventory and logistics. These facilities are designed to accommodate goods securely and are also equipped with modern logistics facilities.

What are the Documents Needed for Business Setup in SPC Free Zone?

The list of documents required for business setup in SPC Free Zone is as follows:

Copy of the parent companyโ€™s commercial registration certificate

CPR copy of the director

Copy of Passport

Copy of the parent companyโ€™s Memorandum of Association, Articles of Association, and amendments for foreign restricted companies.

Copy of the visa pages of the manager

An original bank reference and CV

Original educational qualification and experience letter

General community solution or board of directors as the single owner of the SPC

Passport copy

Passport-sized photo

Business activity list

Application form

Emirates ID copy (if applicable)

Documents for Corporate Shareholders (if any)

What is SPC Free Zone?

Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) free zone is the worldโ€™s first free zone dedicated to publishing and creative industries. It was launched in 2017 under the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), and is a part of Sharjahโ€™s efforts to support media, content, and knowledge-based businesses. Initially, it was built for publishers, while now it welcomes over 1500 business activities across sectors like trading, consultancy, IT, and marketing.

It allows 100% foreign ownership, offering flexible packages and quick license approvals. One of the attractions of an SPC free zone company registration is the ability to combine up to five activities under a single license. It also facilitates shared workspaces, visa packages and no requirement for a physical office, thus making it cost-friendly for startups. Those entrepreneurs who are looking to start a business with low-cost business setup options with a wide range of activities, SPC free zones would be the ideal launchpad in Sharjah.

UAE Trade Mark Registration

SPC Free Zone Business Activities List

Here is the SPC Free Zone business activities list you can explore:

  • General Trading
  • Books and Publishing Materials Trading
  • IT and Electronics Trading
  • Office and Stationery Supplies Trading
  • Foodstuff Trading (with some specific regulatory checks)
  • Textiles, Clothing, and Footwear Wholesale
  • Consultancy
  • Marketing & Media
  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Education & Training
  • Accounting & Bookkeeping
  • Publishing
  • Printing & Production
  • Broadcasting
  • E-commerce Trading
  • Online Services (Digital platforms, subscription services, and online content delivery)
SPC Free Zone Company Setup

Post-Registration Compliances for Business Setup in Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone

Have a look at the post-registration compliances for business setup in Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) free zone-

  • Trade License Renewal
  • Establishment Card & Visa Allocation
  • Residence Visa Processing and Renewal
  • Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) Compliance
  • Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) Reporting
  • Anti-money Laundering & CFT Compliance
  • Corporate Bank Account Maintenance
  • Financial & Audit Reporting
  • Immigration and Labour Compliance
  • Customs & Import-Export Compliance
SPC Free Zone Company Setup

Why Trust Enterslice for SPC Free Zone Company Setup?

With over 15 years of experience, Enterslice provides expert guidance in setting up SPCs in free zones, making the process simple, fast, and compliant. Hereโ€™s why Enterslice should be your first choice for SPC Free Zone Company Setup:

  • Free Consultation on Free Zone Selection and Business Structure
  • 100% Ownership Options for Foreign Investors
  • Fast-track Processing of Free Zone Company License
  • End-to-End Support from Application to Incorporation
  • Access to In-house Legal and Compliance Experts
  • Ensures Compliance with Free Zone Regulations and UAE Laws
  • Post-setup Services like Visa Processing, Bank Account Opening, and License Renewal
  • Transparent Pricing with No Hidden Costs
  • 24/7 Customer Support for All Queries
  • Assistance in Drafting Memorandum of Association and Legal Documents
  • Guidance on Dual License (Free Zone + Mainland) Setup
  • Access to Global and Virtual Business Opportunities

FAQs on Business Setup in Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone

An SPC license is a business license issued by the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) that allows companies to operate specific permitted activities such as publishing, printing, media, e-commerce, consultancy, and IT services. It enables entrepreneurs and businesses to set up a company in a cost-effective, business-friendly UAE free zone, with benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, tax advantages, and easy market access.

The list of documents required for business setup in SPC free zone is as follows:

  • Parent company registration certificate
  • Directorโ€™s CPR, passport, and photograph
  • MOA, AOA, and amendments (for foreign restricted companies)
  • Managerโ€™s passport and visa pages
  • Bank reference, CV, and educational/experience documents
  • Board resolution or consent (for single-owner SPC)
  • Business activity list and application form
  • Emirates ID (if applicable)
  • Documents of corporate shareholders (if any)

The step-by-step procedure for SPC free zone company setup is as follows:

  • General Trading :- Engaging in the import, export, distribution, and sale of a wide range of permitted goods.
  • Books and Publishing Materials Trading :- Trading of books, journals, magazines, and other educational or publishing-related materials.
  • IT and Electronics Trading :- Trading of information technology products, electronic devices, and related equipment.
  • Office and Stationery Supplies Trading :- Wholesale or retail trading of office equipment, stationery items, and workplace supplies.
  • Foodstuff Trading :- Trading of food and grocery items, subject to specific regulatory approvals and health compliance checks.
  • Textiles, Clothing, and Footwear Wholesale :- Wholesale trading of garments, fabrics, apparel accessories, and footwear.
  • Consultancy :- Providing professional advisory services across business, management, strategy, or specialized domains.
  • Marketing & Media :- Offering services related to branding, advertising, digital marketing, and media planning.
  • Information Technology (IT) :- Providing IT solutions, software services, system integration, and technical support.
  • Education & Training :- Delivering educational programs, professional training, skill development, and learning services.
  • Accounting & Bookkeeping :- Providing financial record-keeping, accounting support, and bookkeeping services.

The different types of company structures in SPC free zone are as follows:

  • FZE (Free Zone Establishment) :- A single-shareholder company that allows 100% foreign ownership with limited liability, making it ideal for individual entrepreneurs or standalone corporate entities.
  • FZC (Free Zone Company) :- A company structure that permits up to 7 shareholders (individuals or corporate entities), offering 100% foreign ownership and limited liability, suitable for partnerships and joint ventures.
  • Branch :- Enables local or foreign companies to expand their operations by establishing a branch office in the SPC Free Zone without creating a separate legal entity.

The list of benefits of SPC free zone company setup is as follows:

  • Dual license for free zone & mainland trade.
  • Fast setup, licenses often in 1 day.
  • Affordable packages for all business sizes.
  • Up to 20 visas on select plans.
  • Strategic location near Dubai.
  • Multi-year licenses (1โ€“3 years).
  • 100% foreign ownership.
  • Easy bank account setup.

The available office options in the SPC free zone company setup are as follows:

  • Co-Working Spaces :- Collaborative and cost-effective workspaces ideal for freelancers, startups, and entrepreneurs.
  • Serviced Offices :- Fully furnished, ready-to-use offices equipped with internet, telephony, and administrative support.
  • Shell & Core Offices :- Customizable blank office spaces that allow businesses to design and layout according to their specific needs.
  • Retail Spaces :- Commercial spaces suitable for direct customer-facing businesses such as shops, cafes, and showrooms.
  • Warehouses & Storage Areas :- Secure facilities designed for inventory management, storage, and logistics operations.

The time taken for a Business Setup in Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone is typically completed within a few working days, depending upon the readiness of the documents and the concerned authorities' approval.

Yes, you can indeed open a UAE corporate bank account with an SPC Free Zone License, subject to bank compliance requirements.

The list of SPC free zone features is as follows:

  • Company formation in 5 to 10 business days
  • Easy to open a bank account
  • Minimal paperwork
  • 100% foreign ownership
  • UAE investor visa
  • 0% Income Tax & withholding tax

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