Why SPC Free Zone is a Smart Choice
- SPC or Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone offers 100% foreign ownership, so no local partner required.
- Zero corporate and personal income taxes, with import/export duty exemptions inside the zone. Full repatriation of profits and capital.
- Over 1,500 business-activities to choose from; you can even combine up to 5 different activities under one license.
- Flexible licensing packages: you can start with no-visa license or include visas as needed; also options for virtual offices, flexi-desk, shell and core, or fully furnished premises.
- Fast setup: license issuance in 2-5 working days once documents are ready.
Setup Steps
1. Select business activities & license type
- Choose from the approved activities. Combine up to five sectors under one license if needed. Decide if you need visa(s) or just a business license.
2. Choose a name and register it
- Reserve a trade name that follows SPC rules; ensure it’s unique and permissible.
3. Apply for license & submit documents
- Submit required documents: passport copies, visa (if applicable), photos, etc. Pay required fees. License is processed in 2-5 working days usually.
4. Office / workspace setup
- Decide whether you need physical office, flexi-desk, virtual office, or co-working space. If required, lease and set up space.
5. Visa and immigration procedures
- If your package includes visas, apply for establishment card; then visa application, medical test, Emirates ID, etc. In SPC you can get investor/employment visas depending on package.
6. Open bank account & additional registrations
- Corporate bank account opening, possibly VAT registration, PRO services, etc. SPC and service providers often assist.
Benefits & What to Watch Out For
Major Advantages:
- No local sponsor needed; full ownership.
- Tax-friendly environment: zero corporate tax in many cases, duty exemptions.
- Flexible visas and office options to manage cost.
- Access to a large variety of permitted business activities.
Things to Check:
- Cost for visas, medical tests, Emirates ID may add up.
- Office rent / lease for shell or furnished office increases cost significantly.
- If you plan to do business in the mainland (outside free zone), check whether you need dual license arrangements.
- Renewal fees and maintaining license/visa compliance.
What Makes SPC Free Zone Stand Out
- Very competitive pricing compared with some other free zones; basic license packages starting around AED 6,855.
- Able to combine multiple business activities under one license, which gives flexibility.
- Remote (virtual) setup possible; you don’t always need physical office initially.
- Fast processing. License issuance in 2-5 working days in many cases.
Conclusion
For J K, setting up a company in SPC Free Zone is a very appealing option: it offers flexibility, ownership, favorable tax and cost benefits, and speed. If you plan carefully choose the right package, account for visa and office costs you can establish a strong presence in the UAE with relatively low upfront investment.