Cost of SPC License in 2026
The cost of an SPC free zone license will vary depending on the type of license, additional requirements, specific services, and other factors. The average cost of an SPC license in 2026 is AED 5760, as it is subject to change as per the policy amendments and decisions of the government. Besides, the license cost will be determined according to the business activity and the business structure.
There are less obvious charges, including lease expenses and charges for additional approvals, as well. It would be best to set up the business in SPC under the guidance of a trusted business setup service.
| Package Type | Visa Allocation | Starting Price (AED) | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Co-working/ Publishing (Basic) | 0 | 5,700 | Those looking to set up a business in SPC on a low budget, like freelancers, start-ups, media, digital media, where no private space is required. |
| Standard/ Trading | 0 | 8000 | Businesses involved in standard trading, rather than publishing, need this license. |
| General/ Standard | 1 | 11700 | A formally formed business that requires one visa. |
| Publishing/ Co-working Space | 1 | 9200 | Small businesses, including start-ups, where the operational budget is minimal, and the owner/ manager needs a visa. |
| Co-working Space | 2-3 | 10800 - 12400 | Suitable for a small team working in publishing, media, trading, or e-commerce industries. |
| Publishing | 4-6 | 14000 – 17200 | Growth-centric businesses, with a team of employees. |
| Standard/ General Business | 2-4 | 12800 – 15100 | A medium-sized business that operates with a team. |
| Mixed Activity Package | 0 | 6500 | Entities undertaking mixed business operations, like media, publishing, trading, and services. |
How to Set Up an SPC Freezone Company
The Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC) authority has laid down a simple and straightforward process for setting up a business in this regime. Neither does it have complex regulations nor difficult terms to follow. Kiltons simplifies the entire setup by handling documentation, approvals, and compliance on your behalf. Our expert consultants ensure a fast, cost-effective, and hassle-free business formation experience in the SPC Free Zone.
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Types of Business Entities in SPC
Free Zone Establishment (FZE), Free Zone Company (FZC), and Branch of an Existing UAE/ Foreign Company are the three types of business structures allowed in the SPC freezone.
| Entity Type | Description | Ownership |
|---|---|---|
| Free Zone Company (FZC) | It can have 2 to 7 shareholders. The owners can be individuals, corporate entities, or both. Responsibilities, investments, and authorities can be shared among the shareholders, as per the company policy. | 100% |
| Free Zone Establishment (FZE) | FZE has a single-owner business structure. The individual owner or the corporate entity can own and control the company. Foreign ownership is permitted in this case as well. That means the companies in the SPC can be owned by foreigners completely, without any legal limitations in that aspect. | 100% |
| Branch Office | This is nothing but an extension of a foreign-owned or UAE-based company located in the SPC freezone. The company will be functioning under the ownership and legal framework of the parent organisation. The full ownership is with the parent company. | 100% |
Documents Required for SPC Business Setup
For an Individual Shareholder
- Passport Copy (Valid for at least 6 months)
- Personal Information Sheet or Application Form
- Visa Page Copy (if applicable)
- Emirates ID (if applicable)
For Corporate Shareholders
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) of the Corporate Entity
- Article of Association (AOA)
- Trade License
- Board resolution establishing that the investment in the SPC freezone company is permitted
- Incumbency Certificate
- UBO List
- A passport copy of the Company Manager
- Visa copy of the Company Manager
- Emirates ID of the Company Manager
Timeline Breakdown for SPC Business Setup
Although the timeline for company formation in the SPC freezone might differ depending on various aspects, described below is the estimated time required. This is in accordance with the assumption that all the documents are ready. There can also be governmental delays due to unforeseen reasons or holidays. At the same time, the processing time might be less for individuals based on their nationality and visa status. Note that it can be vice versa as well.
Finalise the business activities, the license required, the number of visas, and the type of office space. All the subsequent activities will be based on this.
Submit 03 options for the trade name, as per the naming regulations in the SPC, for reservation. Resubmission is required if the suggestions are rejected. Hence, ensure the names are acceptable to the authority.
Prepare all the documents, including the lease agreement, shareholder details, AOA, MOA, and applications. Submit it to the SPC freezone authority in the prescribed format.
The license issue process normally takes 01 to 03 business days. At the same time, a fast license issue process is also available. Through which one can get an SPC license in under an hour.
Typically done within 1 to 3 days after issuance of the license. E-channel is necessary for immigration, while the Establishment Card will state the visas allotted.
This could be undertaken simultaneously with the earlier steps. Finalization of office space, setting up the structure, and the lease agreement can be concluded during the setup process.
Complete the immigration formalities, including biometrics, health insurance, Emirates ID, entry permit, and medical test.
A corporate bank account can be opened with the company license and the relevant documents. The time taken to complete the formality will differ depending on the bank.
You have a business license, all the documents, and the corporate bank account. Start business operations right away.
Key Advantages - SPC Business Setup
The key advantages that make SPC Freezone the ideal domain for investment include:
Quick and Easy Business Set Up
No hassles, as in the case of many other business jurisdictions. Simplified formalities make company formation comfortable.
Wide Range
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone has a wide range of business activities for you to choose from. More than 1500 business activities are permitted in SPC.
Full Repatriation of Profits and Capital
Take home capital and the profit without any legal complications. The investors are allowed to transfer the investment and earnings to their home country.
Lower Business Setup Costs
The business setup costs in SPC are lower than in many other free zones.
Strategically Beneficial Location
Located closer to the seaport and airport, SPC offers convenient and trouble-free export and import.
Get Multiyear License
A Multiyear license that ranges up to 10 years is available.
Dual License Option
Get a Mainland business license as well, while having a trade license in the SPC free zone, without any trouble. SPC allows you to have a dual license.
Licensing
Sharjah Publishing City (SPC)
Need help?
1
What is the Business Activity Planned?
SPC is a media-based free zone. 1500+business activities, spread across the following sectors, can be considered for the business in this free zone. Businesses can perform up to five activities under one license.
- Publishing
- Media
- IT
- E-commerce
- Consultancy Services
- Import and Export Trading
- Manufacturing
This is the first step for business formation in SPC.
2
Business Structure Planned
Free Zone Company (FZC) and Free Zone Establishment (FZE) are the two common business structures in the SPC. Single shareholder FZE, FZC with multiple shareholders, or a branch of an existing foreign company can be established.
3
Type of License You Need
The type of license for the business in the SPC freezone will depend on the business activity planned. The different types of licenses are:
- Commercial Licence/ Trading License
- Service License
- Media License
- E-commerce License
- Industrial License
- General Trading License
4
What is the Package You are Looking For?
The business package can be chosen according to the budget, the type of activities, the size of the business, and the visas required.
5
Name of the Business
Let it be SPC Freezone or anywhere else in the UAE, the name of the business should abide by the extant regulations. Talk to us if you are confused about a specific name or need suggestions for your business in SPC. The business name:
- Should not have any reference to any government bodies in the country.
- Should not be religious
- Should not have any offensive or blasphemous terms
- The person’s name can be used if it is part of the license name
Once the company name that meets the regulations mentioned above is finalized, register it with SPC. The authority will examine the business name before approval.
6
Document Submission
The following documents have to be submitted for obtaining a business license in the SPC free zone:
- Copy of Passport of the Owner (s)
- Passport Size Photographs in White Background
- Some of the Business Activities Require a Proper Business Plan to be Submitted
- Emirates ID and Visa, if you are a UAE Resident
- NOC (for applicable individuals only)
Submit the documents for perusal and approval by the authority. License and registration fees can be paid on approval of the documents. The said fees are paid annually.
Make sure that all the documents are submitted in the prescribed format. The SPC trade license is issued in 1 to 3 days on submission of documents. The Following are issued to the SPC Freezone company owner:
- Business License
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Lease Agreement (if applicable)
- Share Certificate
7
Apply for Visas (Depending on the Business Package Chosen)
Those who have chosen a business package with visas need to pursue visa processing as well. Hence, the procedure would include:
- Entry Permit
- Establishment Card
- Medical Test for Visa Approval
- Emirate ID
- Visa Stamping
8
Open a Corporate Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account in the name of the SPC Freezone business. Once this is also completed, you are all set to scale the summit of success through your company at SPC.
SPC Business Bank Account Assistance
Popular Banks
- Mashreq Bank
- Emirates NBD
- RAK Bank
- Wio
Required Documents
- Original Passport (Shareholders/ Signatory)
- Company Incorporation Documents
- Emirates ID
- Tenancy Document
- Bank Statement (06-12 months)
- Latest Curriculum Vitae
- Detailed Business Plan
- Company Seal
Bank Interview
The bank may schedule an interview to understand the business plans, the type of transactions intended, and other details regarding the company.
Account Opening Timelines
The timeline will depend on the bank. It can take 07 days to 21 days for account opening.
Talk to an expertOffice Options Available in SPC
Choose from a broad list of office categories. The type and size of the office can be chosen depending on the budget, business activities, and plan for expansions. However, the number of visas permitted will depend on the size and type of office.
| Workspace Type | Description | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| Co-working Space | Shared workspace with common amenities | Ideal for freelancers, start-ups, low low-budget businesses |
| Furnished Private Office | Ready to move into furnished office spaces | Businesses that are looking to start functioning right away. It will have the necessary furnishing. |
| Unfurnished Private Office | Office spaces that are not furnished. | Companies are looking to customise the look and feel. They can also set up cost-effective furnishing as desired. |
| Warehouse/ Storage Space | Spaces designed for storage | E-commerce, export, and import entities can opt for such an office space. For storing and moving products as required. |
| Shell/ Core Units | Basic structure only. It can be modified or designed as per the requirement. | Customised facilities will require shell and core units. The configuration can be tailored according to the business needs. |
| Retail Office Space | Offices with a dedicated area for customer interaction. | Businesses needing display of products, customer interaction, retail sales, café, etc., can opt for this type of space. |
SPC License Types & Sample Business Activities
SPC Freezone license assures safe and secure operation of the business in this jurisdiction. The authority assures a comfortable and growth-centric environment for the companies.
Commercial License
The commercial license permits businesses, including retail/ wholesale, export/ import, and general sale,s and up to 20 visas.
Sample Activities :
- Export/ Import
- Retail/ Wholesale
- Logistics and Warehousing
- Rental Business
Trading License
Ideal for domestic trades, export and import of goods, and general trading. It has a flexible visa quota
Sample Activities :
- Domestic/ International Trade
- Electronics Import and Trade
- Trading of Industrial Goods
- Import/ Export of Furniture
Service License
Professional services can be performed with the service license in SPC. Trading is not allowed with this type of license.
Sample Activities :
- Consultancy Service
- IT Service
- Media Service
- Creative Service
E-commerce License
An e-commerce license is mandatory for businesses operating through online or digital platforms. Both domestic and international operations are permitted.
Sample Activities :
- Online Sales
Industrial License
Production, assembly, and manufacturing units require an industrial license to operate in the SPC freezone.
Sample Activities :
- Manufacture
- Assembly
- Packaging
- Production
Media/ Publishing License
Creative firms, media houses, and publishing businesses must obtain a media/ publishing license to establish a company in SPC. Trading activities are not permitted with the subject license.
Sample Activities :
- Publishing
- Printing
- Digital Content
- Media Production
Freelancer Permit
A freelancer permit allows individuals to provide professional services, start a bank account, and obtain a visa.
Sample Activities :
- Solo Freelancing Jobs
SPC Company Renewal
SPC Freezone company license is valid for one year. Hence, the company license, lease agreement, and Establishment card (if available) have to be renewed annually. The process for SPC company renewal is:
- Initiate license renewal formalities well in advance to avoid late fees and other complications.
- Prepare the necessary documents.
- Prepare the application for the renewal of the license.
- Submit the application along with the renewal fee.
- Receive a renewed license.
License Cancellation
Exit Process, Visa Cancellation, Final audit (if applicable)
SPC Company Amendments
SPC allows various types of amendments, including changes in business activities, changes in management, changes in ownership, and trade name changes. The procedure involves:
- Prepare the documents for the amendment.
- Prepare the application requesting the change, specifying the reason.
- Obtain external approval, if required.
- Submit the application along with the documents and fee.
- Receive the amended document.
- Undertake necessary corrections in the company documents.
SPC Company Cancellation
SPC company cancellation has to be undertaken when the business is discontinued formally. The process:
- Board resolution regarding the shutdown of operations.
- Obtain approval/ clearance from relevant authorities, including government organisations (as necessary).
- Deregister from VAT if the company was registered for VAT.
- Cancel all visas associated with the business.
- Return all the documents in their original form.
- Submit an application for liquidation.
- Pay the liquidation fee.
- Notice in the newspaper (if applicable).
- Obtain a cancellation certificate from the SPC authority.
Hidden Cost to be Aware of
There are no hidden costs as such. However, there are less obvious expenses that people normally miss out on. The costs that you need to consider while planning a business setup in SPC include:
- Visa and immigration costs
- Expense for leasing the office space
- Annual license renewal charge
- Expense for utilities
- Legal charges
- Auditing and accounting fee
- Agent fee
- Charges of amendments in the business activities
- Bank account opening costs
- Labour and insurance charges
Is SPC The Right Choice For You
SPC is Ideal for
Media and creative businesses can thrive in the SPC free zone, with the authorities offering flexible licensing solutions and optimal support.
As the name indicates, Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone is designed exclusively for the printing and publishing industry. Book publishers, authors, editors, self-publishing companies, print-on-demand firms, and others associated with books can choose this free zone confidently.
The e-commerce sector, with its prime focus on printed books, media-related goods, e-books, and such merchandise, can establish its business here and grow.
Expat entrepreneurs can choose this free zone to have complete control over their company. It would be more beneficial if the business focuses on books, the creative field, or media.
SPC may not be Ideal for
Since the SPC Free Zone is designed for the publishing and media industry, it is not ideal for heavy industries, manufacturing companies, and factories.
Logistics and transportation companies will require large-scale warehousing and storage facilities. Such companies may not be able to operate in the SPC efficiently due to the lack of adequate infrastructure support and space limitations.
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