Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) is the world’s first free zone dedicated to the publishing, printing, and content creation industries. It offers a tax-free, business-friendly ecosystem with over 1,500 business activities, fast company setup (24-48 hours), and strategic global market access, making it the ideal choice for publishers, authors, media professionals, and digital entrepreneurs.
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) is the world’s first and only free zone dedicated entirely to the publishing, printing, and content creation industries.
Established in 2017 under the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, SPC Free Zone offers a tax-free, business-friendly ecosystem designed to empower publishers, media professionals, and digital entrepreneurs.
With over 1,500 business activities, lightning-fast company setup, and strategic access to global markets, SPC Free Zone is rapidly becoming the top choice for creative and publishing businesses in the UAE and beyond.
| Feature | SPC Free Zone | Dubai Media City | TwoFour54 Abu Dhabi | RAKES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Specialization | 100% Publishing & Media Focus | General Media & Tech | Media & Entertainment | Mixed Industries |
| Setup Cost | From AED 5,750 | From AED 15,000 | From AED 10,000 | From AED 7,500 |
| Visa Processing | 5 Days | 7-10 Days | 7-14 Days | 5-7 Days |
| Office Flexibility | Flexi-Desks, Private Offices, Warehouses | Limited Options | Limited Options | Limited Options |
| Government Support | Sharjah Book Authority, SILA, Shera | Dubai Culture | TwoFour54 Partners | RAKEZ Business Support |
✅ Best for: Publishers, authors, digital content creators, printing firms, and media consultants looking for low-cost, specialized, and fast-track setup.
| License Type | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Publishing License | Book publishers, magazines, digital media | Covers print & digital content |
| Trading License | Book distributors, e-commerce sellers | Allows local & international trade |
| Consultancy License | PR firms, marketing agencies | Includes media & branding services |
| Freelance Permit | Authors, designers, translators | Low-cost for solo professionals |
| Printing License | Printing presses, packaging firms | For physical book production |
SPC Free Zone offers over 1,500 business activities across multiple industries, including:
✅ Publishing & Printing – Book publishing, digital content creation, and printing services.
✅ E-commerce & Trading – Selling books, media, and other products online.
✅ Consultancy & Media Services – PR firms, marketing agencies, and content creators.
✅ IT & Technology – Software development, cloud services, and cybersecurity.
🔹 🔹Pro Tip: Select the activity that aligns with your business goals. If unsure, consult a business setup expert for guidance.
SPC Free Zone offers various licenses based on your business needs:
Publishing License: Ideal for book publishing, magazines, and digital media.
Trading License: This license is suitable for book distributors, e-commerce businesses, and retail.
Consultancy License: This is perfect for PR firms, marketing agencies, and media consultants.
Freelance Permit: This is best for independent authors, designers, translators, and consultants.
Printing License: Designed for printing presses and packaging companies.
Need multiple business activities? SPC Free Zone allows multiple business activities under one license!
The document submission process is quick and straightforward. You will need:
📌 Passport Copy: Clear copy of all partners’ and shareholders’ passports.
📌 Application Form: Complete the SPC Free Zone company registration form.
📌 Business Plan (if required)—A brief outline of your business activities.
🚀 Fast-Track Setup: Some businesses may qualify for a zero-paperwork setup!
SPC Free Zone offers one of the fastest business approval processes in the UAE.
Once your documents are submitted, your license can be issued within 24-48 hours.
You will receive your trade license, certificate of incorporation, and memorandum of association (MoA).
🔹🔹Need help with approvals? Vazone Business Consultants can assist with a smooth and hassle-free registration process.
After obtaining your business license, the next step is opening a corporate bank account.
SPC Free Zone collaborates with top UAE banks, including:
Emirates NBD, ADCB, Mashreq Bank, and RAKBANK.
Requirements for opening an account:
✅ Business license and registration documents.
✅ Passport and visa copies of company shareholders.
✅ Proof of business activity (invoices, contracts, etc.).
🔹🔹 Need assistance? Vazone’s banking experts can help with choosing the best banking solutions.
The SPC Free Zone allows businesses to apply for up to 6 residency visas per company. The process includes:
1️⃣ Entry Permit Issuance: Issued within 5 working days.
2️⃣ Medical tests & Emirates ID: Includes a blood test, x-ray, and biometrics.
3️⃣ Visa Stamping: The residency visa is stamped in your passport.
✅ Processing time: Visa approvals take 5-7 working days.
✅ Eligibility: Business owners, employees, and dependents can apply.
🔹🔹Need visa support? Check Vazone’s visa services for professional assistance.
✅ Yes! SPC offers e-commerce licenses for online bookstores, digital content sales, and more.
✅ No! It also supports IT, marketing, consulting, and trading businesses.
5 working days for residency visas.
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