Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) is a dedicated free zone located in Sharjah, UAE, designed to support businesses in the publishing, printing, and media sectors. It is one of the most cost-effective and strategically positioned free zones in the UAE, offering a business-friendly environment for international and local investors.
SPC Free Zone serves as a hub for various industries, particularly in publishing, digital media, printing, and distribution. The free zone aims to cater to a wide range of business activities, providing them with essential resources, streamlined processes, and strong infrastructure support. The area is ideal for publishers, media professionals, content creators, and entrepreneurs looking to set up their operations in the UAE's growing media landscape
Industry Focus
- Sharjah Publishing Free Zone (SPFZ) is primarily designed to support businesses in:
- Publishing
- Printing
- Media & Content Creation
- Book Distribution
- E-commerce for Books and Publications
- Digital Publishing
Ownership
- 100% Foreign Ownership : SPFZ allows full foreign ownership of businesses, so no local sponsor or partner is required.
Business Licenses
- Types of Licenses available in SPFZ:
- Publishing License: For companies engaged in publishing, printing, and related services
- Media License: For media-related businesses such as advertising, broadcasting, and production
- E-commerce License: For businesses involved in selling books, publications, and related products online
Taxation
- Corporate Tax: 9% corporate tax applicable on profits exceeding AED 375,000 effective from 2023.
- VAT:A 5% VAT applicable on most goods and services
- Exemptions: Certain activities may qualify for tax exemptions based on FTA criteria
Office Space Solutions
- SPFZ offers a range of flexible office space options:
- Virtual Offices : Ideal for businesses that do not require a physical office
- Serviced Offices: Fully furnished offices with basic services.
- Dedicated Office Space : Customizable office space for larger operations.
Visa & Immigration
- Visa Eligibility: Companies in SPFZ can apply for residency visas for investors and employees. The number of visas depends on the office space and business activity.
- Family Sponsorship: Investors can sponsor their family members for UAE residency under certain conditions.
Regulatory Framework
- Sharjah Publishing Free Zone Authority governs SPFZ. It ensures compliance with UAE federal laws, industry regulations, and global publishing standards.
Compliance & Reporting
- SPFZ businesses must adhere to UAE's anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, as well as industry-specific publishing standards.
Cost of Formation
- The setup costs for starting a business in SPFZ typically start from AED 8,500 and may vary based on business activity, office space, and visa requirements.
Banking & Financial Services
- Bank Account Opening: SPFZ companies can open corporate bank accounts in the UAE, with access to both local and international banking services.