Background on SPC Free Zone
Established in 2017, Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) is strategically located in Al Zahia, Sharjah, along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, just minutes from major airports and trading hubs.
The free zone offers comprehensive business services, including company formation, visa processing, corporate banking, and modern facilities such as coworking spaces and offices, which support over 1,500 business activities across various industries.
Key features include 100% foreign ownership, dual licensing capabilities that enable operations in both the free zone and the mainland UAE, a fast 7-day setup process, and the flexibility to combine up to five business activities under a single license without incurring additional fees.
The Honest SPC Free Zone Reviews
1. Customer Service Experience
SPC Free Zone maintains a 4.9-star rating from over 2,273 customers, with praise for responsive and professional support; however, some report issues with accountability and communication during restructuring periods. The team handles administrative tasks with experienced professionals providing guidance throughout the process.
2. Licensing and Registration Process
Licenses are issued within 3-5 working days, with complete setup including visa stamping in 7 working days due to onsite immigration services. Simple 3-step process: quote and payment, document submission, and application finalization. Flexible options include 1-10 year validity, combining up to 5 activities per license, and dual licensing for free zone and mainland operations.
3. Pricing and Packages
Packages start from AED 5,750 compared to AED 8,000-15,000 at other free zones. Office costs: unfurnished AED 980/sqm, furnished AED 1,100/sqm, shell & core AED 400/sqm, warehouse AED 480/sqm. Visa allocation costs approximately AED 1,600 per visa. License renewal matches initial package costs.
4. Office and Facilities
Best-in-class facilities with 24/7 access, including modern offices, warehouses, and co-working spaces. World-class infrastructure with state-of-the-art printing technology, contemporary office spaces, and logistics services. Located 7 minutes from Sharjah Airport, 15 minutes from Dubai Airport.
5. Visa and Immigration Services
Complete visa processing in 7 working days with onsite immigration services. Includes VIP medical tests, biometric applications, and family relocation assistance. Up to 20 visas available per license on select packages. Medical and Emirates ID processing is required within 30 days of entering the UAE.
6. Business Environment and Networking
Great Place to Work is certified by 9,681 businesses from over 40 countries. Co-working spaces offer networking opportunities, active partnerships with the Sharjah Investors Services Centre and Mashreq Bank, as well as participation in industry events. A diverse community supports business growth and global market access.
Common Themes in User Feedback
- Positive highlights: Quick setup processes, a responsive customer service team, and professional staff support during company formation.
- Frequent drawbacks: Post-setup service gaps with outsourced customer service, poor communication during renewals/amendments, and lack of real person availability for issue resolution.
- Notable trends: Strong initial formation services but declining support quality after setup, with customers increasingly moving to other free zones due to post-formation service issues.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Best suited for: Cost-conscious startups and entrepreneurs needing quick setup from AED 5,750, especially in publishing, media, e-commerce, and trading with dual licensing requirements.
Consider alternatives when: You need consistent post-setup support, have high-risk nationality visas, or require guaranteed banking relationships.
Final thoughts: Strong initial setup reputation (4.9-star rating) but post-formation service quality declines with outsourced support and communication issues. Best for self-sufficient businesses prioritizing cost over premium ongoing service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Benefits of an SPC Free Zone?
100% foreign ownership, dual licensing, 7-day setup, from AED 5,750, combine 5 activities per license.
Which Free Zone Is Best?
Depends on the industry – DIFC (finance), DMCC (commodities), JAFZA (logistics), SPC (cost-effective media and e-commerce).
What Are the Disadvantages of a Free Zone Visa in the UAE?
Limited mainland operations, banking challenges, restricted employment, and visa depend on license validity.
Which Is the Cheapest Free Zone in Sharjah?
SPC Free Zone – starts AED 5,750 vs others at AED 8,000-15,000.
