Have you ever thought of starting your dream-business in UAE? You are at the right place! SPC Free Zone is quickly emerging as the preferred option of entrepreneurs/startups seeking flexibility, affordability and faster set up of their business. At a time when solopreneurs and growing SMEs continue to be rather savvy in doing business, establishing a shop in SPC is a good idea, and this guide will explain why.
What is SPC Free Zone?
The SPC Free Zone, or Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone, is one of the UAE’s most progressive and entrepreneur-friendly zones. Originally created to support publishing and media businesses, SPC has evolved into a thriving hub for over 1,500 business activities, from tech and trading to e-commerce and consulting.
Why Choose SPC Free Zone for Business Setup?
Wondering why so many startups are choosing SPC? Let’s unpack what makes it such a hotspot.
Strategic Location
Located in the heart of Sharjah, the SPC Free Zone Dubai (yes, it’s close enough to benefit from Dubai’s ecosystem too!) gives you access to key markets in the UAE, GCC, Africa, and Asia—all from one central hub.
Affordable Business Packages
The SPC Free Zone packages are super startup-friendly. Whether you’re bootstrapping or scaling, you’ll find cost-effective solutions that suit your budget without cutting corners.
Investor-Friendly Policies
The cherry on top? You get 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, and no need for a local sponsor. Sounds like a sweet deal, right?
Types of Licenses in SPC Free Zone
Choosing the right license is like picking the perfect outfit—it needs to fit your business just right.
SPC Free Zone License Categories
You can pick from:
Commercial License
Service License
E-commerce License
General Trading License
Each caters to different business activities. Whether you’re selling products, offering services, or launching an online store, there’s a license tailored for you.
SPC Free Zone E-Commerce License Cost
Looking to take your store online? The SPC Free Zone e-commerce license cost starts from as low as AED 6,000, depending on the package and activity count. That’s a small price for a big digital future.
Step-by-Step Guide to SPC Free Zone Business Setup
Let’s get practical. Here’s how you go from business dreamer to SPC business owner.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
With over 1,500 activities to choose from, it’s important to select the ones that align with your business goals. You can also combine multiple activities under one license!
Step 2: Pick the Right SPC Free Zone License
Choose the license that fits your operations—commercial, service, or e-commerce. Need to trade across categories? Consider a general trading license.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Once you’ve picked your activity and license type, submit your documents online or in person. The process is quick, with approvals often within 24 hours.
Step 4: Receive Your License and Start Operating
That’s it! Once your application is approved and fees are paid, you’ll receive your SPC Free Zone license. You’re officially in business!
Company Formation in SPC: What You Need to Know
Setting up a business sounds complicated, but SPC makes it surprisingly smooth.
Required Documents
Here’s what you’ll typically need:
Passport copy
Passport-sized photo
Business activity list
Application form
Visa (optional at the start)
Simple, right?
Legal Structure Options
You can form your company in a couple of flexible ways:
Sole Establishment
Ideal for solopreneurs who want 100% ownership and control. You’ll be the sole shareholder and decision-maker.
LLC Formation
Got partners or investors? Go for a Limited Liability Company (LLC). It gives you more credibility and growth potential.
Business License Cost in SPC
Let’s talk numbers. The business license cost in SPC is one of the most affordable in the UAE.
Basic package: Starts from AED 5,750
Multi-activity license: Around AED 8,500–AED 13,000
With visa allocation: Varies based on the number of visas (up to 20 visas possible!)
You can also choose from monthly installments to make it easier on your wallet.
SPC Free Zone Packages: What’s Included?
The SPC Free Zone packages come with value-packed perks. Most packages offer:
Business license
Lease agreement (no physical office required)
Free zone address
MOA and incorporation documents
Multiple activities under one license
Fast-track bank account opening
Need a visa? Add it to your package easily—up to 20 visas per license!
SPC Free Zone Dubai: Close Enough to Matter
While it’s officially based in Sharjah, SPC Free Zone Dubai benefits are real. You’re only 20 minutes from Dubai International Airport, and logistics, client meetings, and commuting are all super easy.
Opening a Bank Account in the UAE
Once you’re licensed, open a UAE corporate bank account. SPC helps with:
Pre-approvals
Referrals to trusted banks
Documentation support
Tip: Keep your documents handy and clear—banks love organized clients!
Virtual Office or Physical Space: Your Choice
Not ready for an office yet? No worries.
Virtual Office: Included in basic packages
Physical Office: Upgrade anytime you need one
Co-working Spaces: Modern, affordable, and ideal for small teams
Visa Options in SPC Free Zone
SPC allows up to 20 visas per license—more than most free zones. You can sponsor yourself, employees, or family.
Can You Upgrade or Modify Your SPC License?
Absolutely. SPC lets you:
Add or remove business activities
Change business structure
Upgrade to a different license
Add visa quotas as your team grows
Wrapping It Up: Why SPC Free Zone Rocks for Entrepreneurs
In a nutshell, if you’re looking for a low-cost, fast, and flexible way to start your business in the UAE, the SPC Free Zone business setup is the smart route.
From the wide range of licenses and packages to its killer location and pro-business vibes, it checks all the boxes for entrepreneurs looking to grow.
Final Thought
Entering into a business may seem to be a daunting task, but it does not have to be so. The SPC Free Zone is the evidence that the formation of a company in the UAE may be easy, cheap, and quick. Are you starting your first business? Or your side-hustle? Or a local base of operation? SPC puts everything you need to make it work right in your hands, without dumping a mass of red tape on you, or charging you a fortune.
Flexible license, low barrier of entry, simple visa processing, and friendly environment make the SPC Free Zone business setup a brilliant decision an entrepreneur can take in 2025.
FAQs
How long does it take to get an SPC Free Zone license?
Usually within 24–48 hours after submitting your documents and payment.
Can I run more than one business under one SPC license?
Yes! SPC allows multiple business activities under one license—even from different sectors.
What’s the cheapest SPC Free Zone license option?
Basic packages start from around AED 5,750, with occasional promotions bringing it even lower.
Is an office mandatory for company formation in SPC?
Nope. You can operate with a virtual office address included in your license package.
Can I upgrade my license later?
Totally. SPC lets you upgrade your license, add activities, or change legal structure whenever you’re ready.
