SPC (Sharjah Publishing City) Free Zone
For entrepreneurs who are on the lookout for a fast-paced yet cost-effective entry into the market of the United Arab Emirates, SPC (Sharjah Publishing CIty) Free Zone is deemed the most suitable choice. Renowned for its seamless digital setup procedure, it permits business entities to launch quickly without any form of bureaucratic delays. Irrespective of whether you are a solopreneur or major MNC, SPC provides a flexible framework specifically designed to get your business operational in record time.
SPC Free Zone: An In-Depth Look
Handled by the Sharjah Book Authority, SPC (Sharjah Publishing City) Free Zone was set up in 2017 as the first free zone of the world which was dedicated to the printing & publishing industry sectors. However, the popular Free Zone has since transformed into a comprehensive hub of business, offering support to 1,500+ distinct business activities across numerous sectors, such as IT, consultancy, general trading, etc.
Strategically positioned on the famous Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), SPC offers excellent logistical connectivity, located only 15 minutes away from the Dubai International Airport and only 7 minutes away from the Sharjah International Airport. It serves as a single-stop platform providing top-of-the-line infrastructure, which includes co-working spaces, fully-furnished offices, and warehouses.
Strategic Advantages of SPC Free Zone
SPC is specifically engineered for speed. As opposed to traditional jurisdictions, the SPC Free Zone is known for its “Instant License” service, where trade licenses are generally issued in between 45 minutes to a full working day. Besides this, here are some of the most prominent benefits of the SPC Free Zone:
100% Foreign Ownership
Investors retain total ownership of their business entity without requiring a local UAE sponsor.
0% Corporate Tax
Business entities enjoy 0% CT (On qualifying income) as well as 0% tax on personal income.
Top-Notch Location
The Free Zone’s proximity to two significant international airports makes the place an excellent location for import/export as well as global businesses.
High Visa Quotas
There are specific packages allowing as many as 20 visas under one license, offering immense scalability for teams that are growing.
Cost-Effective
Setup changes are among the most competitive within the UAE, with zero requirement for paid-up share capital.
Xpert Tip: Selecting the right jurisdiction is very important for your long-term game plan. Our Business Advisory services can aid you in determining if the regulatory framework of SPC aligns with your particular operational requirements.
SPC Free Zone’s “Dual License” Advantage
One standout feature of the SPC Free Zone is its “Dual License” option. Generally, companies in the Free Zone are restricted to trading within the free zone or internationally, In order to trade directly with the Mainland, a separate license/distributor is generally needed.
SPC’s Dual License resolves this issue by permitting you to function in both the UAE Free Zone as well as the UAE Mainland under a sole registration. This completely removes the requirement for a physical office space on the UAE Mainland while granting you access to the region’s broader local market.
SPC License Types & Activities
The SPC Free Zone offers an extensive range of licenses, each suiting diversified models of business. You also get the option to merge up to 5 business activities from different sectors under a single license. Here is an overview of the licenses along with the permitted business activities:
Commercial & General Trading License
This form of business license is suitable for entities who are involved in activities such as buying, selling, as well as distributing goods.
- Commercial License: For trading certain goods.
- General Trading License: Permits trading in a wide range of non-related goods.
Service & Consultancy License
Designed specifically for professionals offering expert advice/services, like marketing firms, IT consultancies, as well as HR companies.
E-Commerce License
Ideally located close to residential developments and commercial establishments, the Al Hamra Industrial Zone serves light manufacturing, assembly, as well as general trading firms. It strikes a solid balance between accessibility and capability.
Publishing License
Staying authentic to its roots, the publishing license is designed specially for book publishers, magazines, as well as digital media firms.
SPC Free Zone Business Structures
When forming your SPC company, you must necessarily opt for legal structure. Below is a glance at SPC Free Zone’s legal structures:
FZE (Free Zone Establishment)
A business entity with one shareholder (either individual or corporate).
FZCO (Free Zone Company)
A business entity with multiple shareholders (up to seven individuals or corporations).
Branch Office
An extension of a pre-existing UAE company or a foreign international company.
SPC Free Zone Company Formation Process: The Xpert Way
The process of setting up a company in SPC Free Zone has numerous complex steps. Xpert Advisory simplifies the process into a seamless, hassle-free experience. Here is how we do it:
Step 1: Initial Consultation & Submission of Documents
We evaluate your business model in order to choose the correct most suitable business license as well as the right business activities.
Step 2: Approval of Business Name & Document Submission
We submit your desired company names and manage the entire initial paperwork process, including formalities with passport copies as well as photos.
Step 3: Licensing and Payment
Post approval, the license fee gets paid. SPC acts very quickly – the digital version of the business licenses generally gets issued on the very same day.
Step 4: Establishment Card and Visas
After the license gets issued, we officially apply for the crucial Establishment Card. Once active, we go ahead with other important documents, such as e-visas, medical examinations, and Emirates ID for both you as well as your family members.
Step 5: Corporate Banking
With your official license as well as Emirates ID ready, we aid in the banking procedure, using our strong professional relationships to facilitate securing a corporate bank account.
How Xpert Advisory Can Help You in SPC Free Zone
Xpert Advisory acts as your reliable corporate partner in order to ensure your business foundation is solid from the very first day. Here is how contribute value-wise to your SPC setup:
Strategic Activity Structuring
With more than 1,500 activities readily available, selecting the right combination of utmost importance. Our Business Planning experts make sure your business license aligns perfectly with the actual model of your business.
End-to-End PRO Support
Our professionals handle the entire lifecycle of the government liaison process. Right from drafting the MoA to handling visa & residency services for both you and your family members, our PRO team makes sure you avoid standing in queues..
Banking & Compliance
Obtaining a license is easy; getting an official bank account is the tough art. We prepare your official corporate profile in order to align with the strict regulatory standards of the UAE banks, thereby facilitating a seamless bank account opening.
Beyond Setup
We do not only launch your business establishment; we provide exceptional support for its growth. Whether you require Corporate Restructuring, Governance & Compliance audits, or help with VAT Registration through our Xpert Tax venture, we offer a holistic ecosystem for the success of your business.
Ready to launch your SPC Free Zone business? Get in touch with us right now for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation, and start your journey of establishing a business entity in the SPC Free Zone!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much time does it take to get a SPC Free Zone business license?
The SPC Free Zone is known for its pace. In many instances, the business license can be issued in around 45 minutes, whereas certain cases take 24 hours after the payment is cleared and the documents receive approval.
2. Can I reside in Dubai if my business entity is situated in the SPC Free Zone?
Absolutely! An SPC Free Zone visa permits you to live anywhere in the United Arab Emirates. You also have the option to rent an apartment & reside in Dubai while your business entity is Sharjah-registered.
3. Do I need to physically be present in the UAE in order to set up the company?
No, The procedure of company registration can be handled and completed remotely. However, in the case of medical checkups, formalities associated with visa, as well as Emirates ID biometrics
