Article about SPC Free Zone – Reviewed by: Abraham, Senior Chartered Accountant at ProAct – Expert in Auditing, Corporate Tax, VAT, AML, UAE Company Formation and Free Zone Compliances.
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) has rapidly evolved into one of the UAE’s most entrepreneur-friendly jurisdictions. Located just 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport, it offers instant licensing, low costs, and massive flexibility—far beyond just “publishing.”
Whether you are a startup, SME, freelancer, or e-commerce brand, this guide covers everything you need to know to launch your UAE business with ProAct Chartered Accountants.
⭐ Quick Summary: Why SPC Free Zone?
- Speed: Fast License issuance.
- Cost: One of the most affordable free zones in the UAE (Starts ~AED 4,999).
- Flexibility: Combine up to 5 unrelated activities (e.g., Marketing + Trading).
- Visas: 0 to 20+ visa quotas available instantly.
- Ownership: 100% foreign ownership with no paid-up capital.
Most Recommended Partner:
👉 ProAct Chartered Accountants — We don’t just issue licenses. We handle your Business Setup + Banking + VAT + Corporate Tax + AML under one roof.
Why Choose SPC Free Zone?
Unlike legacy free zones that can be slow or rigid, SPC is built for the modern digital economy.
1. Unmatched Activity Flexibility
SPC is unique in allowing you to combine unrelated activities on a single license.
- Example: You can run a “Digital Marketing Agency” and an “E-commerce Store” under one trade license.
- Total Activities: Over 1,500+ available (Consulting, Trading, Media, IT).
2. Fast License Issuance
SPC has digitized its entire formation process.
- Instant Issuance: If security approvals are clear, your license is generated in under an hour.
- Zero Paperwork: No physical presence is required for incorporation.
3. Strategic Location
- 10 Minutes to Sharjah International Airport.
- 15 Minutes to Dubai International Airport.
- Seamless Access: Located on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), giving you easy logistics access to all Emirates.
SPC Free Zone License Cost (2025 Breakdown)
Note: Prices are estimates based on 2025 standards and subject to change.
| Package Type | Estimated Cost (AED) | Best For |
| Zero Visa Package | Starting AED 4,999 | International entrepreneurs, dropshippers, residents with existing visas. |
| 1 Visa Package | AED 12,000 – 15,500 | Solopreneurs & Freelancers requiring UAE residency. |
| Multi-Visa (2+ Visas) | AED 16,000 – 46,000+ | Growing SMEs and teams. |
| General Trading | Starting AED 6,885 | Import/Export businesses trading multiple goods. |
| E-Commerce License | Starting AED 5,760 | Amazon/Noon sellers and online stores. |
Optional Add-Ons
- Additional Activity: AED 500 – 1,000
- Immigration Card: Usually included in visa packages.
- Co-working Space: varies by size (often included).
SPC Free Zone vs. Other Freezone
How does SPC stack up against IFZA, RAKEZ, and DMCC?
| Feature | SPC Free Zone | IFZA | RAKEZ | DMCC |
| Setup Speed | ⭐ *Fastest | Fast (2-3 days) | Fast | Slow (1-2 weeks) |
| Cost Entry | ⭐ Low | Medium | Low | High |
| Activity Mix | ⭐ High Flexibility | Limited mix | High Flexibilty | Strict |
| Banking Ease | High (Wio/Mashreq Neo) | High | High (Wio/Mashreq Neo) | High |
| Audit Required? | No (mostly) | Yes (Mandatory) | No | Yes (Mandatory) |
Step-by-Step: How to Setup Your Company with ProAct
We simplify the process into a seamless experience.
- Consultation & Activity Selection
- We review your business model to select the right activities to avoid future UAE Corporate Tax rules conflicts.
- Name Reservation & Compliance Check
- We submit your trade name and run a preliminary AML check.
- Document Submission
- You provide: Passport copy + Digital Photo.
- We handle: All application forms and portal uploads.
- License Issuance
- You receive your Trade License, MOA, and Lease Agreement digitally.
- Visa & Emirates ID Processing
- We process your entry permit, medical test, and Emirates ID typing.
- Bank Account Opening
- ProAct introduces you to our banking partners (Wio, Mashreq, ADIB) with a prepared compliance file to ensure approval.
Critical Compliance: VAT, Corporate Tax & AML
In 2025, getting a license is easy—staying compliant is the hard part. This is where ProAct protects you.
Corporate Tax (9%)
- SPC companies are subject to UAE Corporate Tax if they generate non-qualifying income or trade with the mainland.
- ProAct’s Role: We assess if you qualify for the 0% Free Zone Benefit.
VAT Registration
- Mandatory if taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000.
- ProAct’s Role: We handle your VAT registration and quarterly filing.
AML (Anti-Money Laundering)
- Real Estate agents, Auditors, Corporate Service Providors (CSP) and Dealers in Precious Metals (DNFBPs) must comply with UAE AML Implementation.
- ProAct’s Role: We provide Full Implementation and annual consultancy services.
Why Founders Chose ProAct in 2024
Most setup agents disappear after you get your license. ProAct is your long-term financial partner.
1. The 4-Layer Review System
We don’t just file papers. Every application goes through a 4-step check for Accounting, VAT, Tax, and Legal accuracy.
2. AI-Powered Dashboard
Get access to our accounting dashboard that syncs with your bank account for real-time financial health. Additional cost may apply.
3. Banking Pre-Approval
We know which banks accept which nationalities and activities. We stop you from getting rejected.
Ready to launch? Don’t risk compliance errors. Let ProAct handle your SPC setup, visas, and taxes in one go.
Book Your Free Consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How fast can I get an SPC license?
The license can be issued in as little as 45 minutes, subject to portal availability and security pre-approval.
2. How much does an SPC license cost in 2025?
Packages start from approximately AED 4,999 for a zero-visa license. Visa packages typically range from AED 12,000 to AED 15,500.
3. Can foreigners own 100% of an SPC company?
Yes, SPC Free Zone allows 100% foreign ownership with no need for a local sponsor.
4. Do I need a physical office?
No. SPC offers “co-working” and “virtual” lease agreements that satisfy the legal address requirement.
5. Can I get a UAE residence visa?
Yes, you can obtain a UAE investor visa (valid for 2 years) or employee visas.
6. Is SPC Free Zone good for e-commerce?
Yes, it is excellent for e-commerce (Amazon/Noon) due to low costs and the ability to hold a General Trading activity.
7. Does SPC require an annual audit?
Generally, no. Unlike DMCC and IFZA, SPC does not currently mandate an annual financial audit for license renewal, though maintaining books is required by Tax Law.
8. Can I open a bank account with an SPC license?
Yes. Digital banks like Wio and Mashreq Neo work very well with SPC licenses. ProAct assists with this process.
9. Is trading allowed?
Yes, you can hold Commercial, Trading, and General Trading licenses.
10. Do I need to pay Corporate Tax?
Yes, unless you meet specific “Qualifying Income” criteria. ProAct can conduct a tax assessment for you.
Contact ProAct Chartered Accountants
Your Local Experts for Business Setup, Accounting, AML, Tax, and Audit.
- Locations: Dubai • Sharjah • Abu Dhabi • Ras Al Khaimah
- Phone: +971 50 725 6685
- Web: ProAct
- Hours: Mon–Sat | 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. For tailored guidance, consult ProAct directly.
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