Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone is the world's first dedicated publishing free zone, established by the Sharjah Book Authority to leverage the Emirate of Sharjah's globally recognised status as a capital of culture, knowledge, and book publishing. SPC is home to over 1,000 companies representing publishers, printers, distributors, libraries, educational content companies, and related knowledge economy businesses from across the globe. The free zone is co-located with the Sharjah International Book Fair — the world's third largest book fair — providing SPC companies with direct access to one of the publishing industry's most important annual events. SPC offers some of the most affordable licensing packages in the UAE from AED 5,750 with zero visa options, alongside specialised services tailored to the publishing and media industry including intellectual property support and content distribution facilitation. SPC's unique focus on the knowledge economy reflects Sharjah's vision as a global centre for culture and learning.

About SPC Free Zone

Publishing, Printing & Knowledge Economy

Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone is the world's first dedicated publishing free zone, established by the Sharjah Book Authority to leverage the Emirate of Sharjah's globally recognised status as a capital of culture, knowledge, and book publishing. SPC is home to over 1,000 companies representing publishers, printers, distributors, libraries, educational content companies, and related knowledge economy businesses from across the globe. The free zone is co-located with the Sharjah International Book Fair — the world's third largest book fair — providing SPC companies with direct access to one of the publishing industry's most important annual events. SPC offers some of the most affordable licensing packages in the UAE from AED 5,750 with zero visa options, alongside specialised services tailored to the publishing and media industry including intellectual property support and content distribution facilitation. SPC's unique focus on the knowledge economy reflects Sharjah's vision as a global centre for culture and learning.

Key Information

Zone Name SPC Free Zone
Emirate Sharjah
Setup Cost From AED 5,750
Visa Quota Up to 6
Min. Capital None
Setup Time 2–5 business days

Costs & Fees

License Fee / Setup Cost From AED 5,750
Minimum Share Capital None

Cost Notes

All costs shown are approximate and subject to change. Additional costs may include registration fees, notarisation, visa medical fees, and bank account opening fees. Always verify the exact costs with SPC Free Zone directly before proceeding.

Permitted Business Activities

Book Publishing Academic Publishing Digital Publishing E-books & Online Content Printing & Packaging Media Production Content Creation Education E-learning Journalism & Editorial Translation & Interpretation Graphic Design Animation Photography PR & Communications Advertising & Marketing Events Management IT & Technology E-commerce General Trading Cultural & Heritage Publishing Magazine & Newspaper Publishing

The above activities are indicative. SPC Free Zone may permit additional activities based on your specific business requirements. Always confirm with the zone authority.

How to Set Up in SPC Free Zone

  1. Choose your business activity
    Identify the specific business activities you want to conduct. This determines the license type you need.
  2. Select your package
    Choose between flexi-desk, shared office, or dedicated office options based on your needs and budget.
  3. Submit your application
    Provide required documents including passport copies, business plan, and completed application forms.
  4. Pay fees and receive your license
    Once approved, pay the applicable fees and receive your trade license — typically within 2–5 business days.
  5. Apply for visas
    Use your trade license to apply for investor and employee visas through the free zone authority.
  6. Open a bank account
    Use your incorporation documents to open a corporate bank account with a UAE or international bank.