SPC Free Zone capitalises its unique advantages to nurture and build creative ecosystem

SHARJAH, 28th October, 2022 (WAM) — With its strategic location in the heart of Sharjah that offers easy access to trade links across the wider MENA region, the Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone, under Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), has been empowering entrepreneurs and investors in the creative sector with a suite of flexible, convenient, and competitive solutions to accelerate their businesses.

SPC Free Zone, the world’s first printing and publishing free zone, has successfully capitalised on the unique strengths of Sharjah’s diversified economy, its strategic geographic location at the crossroads of three continents, and international status as a cultural and economic hub to provide a comprehensive business ecosystem with extensive support initiatives to enable businesses in the publishing, printing, and allied sectors to grow and thrive.

The mix of modern infrastructure facilities at SPC Free Zone including co-working, retail, storage, and commercial offices, and the streamlined business set-up processes and offerings under Sharjah’s globally recognised business-friendly regulatory environment, offer investors an ideal business set-up platform to access lucrative markets in the region and beyond.

Businesses from around the world can leverage the state-of-the-art free zone’s unique offerings and benefit from the growth-focused mindset and preferential investment climate in Sharjah. Among the key factors that continue to draw aspiring entrepreneurs into the SPC Free Zone’s enabling ecosystem are the inherent benefits for investors stemming from its presence in the versatile and agile business environment of Sharjah.

Strategic location

With coastlines both on the eastern and western borders of the UAE, an expanding network of destinations served by an international airport, and with three seaports, Sharjah is the perfect gateway to the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and other international markets. In addition, Sharjah shares borders with all other emirates in the UAE enabling businesses based in Sharjah to reach more than 10 million potential customers residing in the country.

Diverse cultural agenda

As the cultural capital of the UAE and home to major international cultural events, Sharjah offers the publishing sector unique opportunities to network, expand their businesses, and connect with customers through major cultural events organised throughout the year such as the annual Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) – recognised as the largest event of its kind globally in 2021 in terms of buying and selling copyrights and one of the top three book fairs in the world; Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF); SIBF Publishers Conference; Sharjah Book Sellers Conference; and many more.

Ease of business setup

In Sharjah’s modern investment environment, investors can get pre-approvals and formalise a business registration within 45 minutes. All the mandatory steps in the business setup processes are streamlined to speed up the establishment of companies, and investors can complete all formalities to start operations in just five days, enabling them to dedicate more time and efforts to expand their reach regionally and internationally.

Unique services

Since its inception in 2017, SPC Free Zone has attracted significant players and businesses across the creative sector. It has created a unified platform for publishers to complete all translation, publishing, and distribution activities and provides world-class services and advanced infrastructure to assist publishers including storage, logistics, and printing. The launch of Lightning Source Sharjah, the first-of-its-kind large-scale print-on-demand service in the region, offers stakeholders at SPC Free Zone significant opportunities to expand access to books and content, and reach the Asian and African markets quicker and at lower costs.

Smart, simple solutions

While enjoying 100 percent ownership and 0 percent income or corporate tax, investors at SPC Free Zone can choose from a host of cost-effective 1,500+ business activities to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey. The tailored solutions further enable investors to combine up to five activities and receive up to 100 visas on one license. Under the flexible package solutions, a 10-year trade license or dual license to operate in the mainland, are available for investors with varied business needs.

Salim Omar Salim, Executive Director of SBA, said, “We are committed to providing strategic opportunities, unique facilities and services, and world-class innovations to enable the publishing sector in the region to accelerate their entrepreneurial ambitions. At SPC Free Zone, our value proposition builds on the strengths of Sharjah’s huge natural and geographic advantage, its proximity to large regional economies, a stable and regulatory environment to support them in the long run, and the presence of a large pool of talent to accelerate sustainable growth in the cultural and creative sectors.”

Lina Ibrahim/ Hazem Hussein

6 Reasons to Register a Company in the UAE

6 reasons a company in the UAE

In the high paced world of today, developing a business is one of the top priorities for individuals who pursue change. Climbing the corporate ladder demands enthusiasm, which entrepreneurs demonstrate with good grace. 

Before establishment, a corporation has to be registered in the country it plans to function within. In this regard, the location where the business is registered plays a pivotal role. It is important to remember that the ease of regulations and performance standards depend on the rules and restrictions of a company’s home country. 

UAE ranks on top amongst the many tax-free countries  in the world, because of the competitive options it provides. With government-based incentives to attract foreign investments and options like the golden visa, foreigners and citizens prefer registering their companies in the UAE.

If you are planning to register your company, then read on as we explore 6 main reasons why company registration in the UAE is the best option. 

In this article, we will talk about the following

Business Structure in the the UAE-6-Reasons to start a company in the UAE

Free zones in  the UAE are  tax-free zones that many  entrepreneurs and investors choose as a place to establish their businesses. The potential benefit a  company can reap after being registered in one of the  UAE’s free zones is astounding. The two main types of business structures that a company in the UAE can adopt include:

Free zone company

This form of business structure is 100% owned by the person who has set it up. One would not need a sponsor or an agent to act as a liaison to manage the venture. 

Benefits of free zone company

If one decides to register their company in a  free zone in the UAE, they can enjoy the following benefits: 

  • 100% foreign ownership
  • The ability of opening  a corporate bank account in the UAE 
  • 0% taxation on businesses
  • Less  renewal charges 
  •  Zero paid-up share capital

Mainland Companies

A mainland company is simply an onshore entity that is registered with the relevant emirate’s government body. 

The fundamental feature of a mainland company is that there are no restrictions on its commercial activities.

6-Reasons to register a company in the UAE

There are many reasons why businesses prefer registration in the UAE. Some of the most common reasons are: 

  1. Tax-Free Zone 

Compared to many other countries in the world, the taxation laws of the UAE are lenient. With Sharjah emerging as competitive business centers of the world, they have become a magnet for startups and established companies alike.

The UAE government imposes income tax only if the incorporated company is in the foreign banking, oil, or gas industry. Otherwise, corporations of every kind are exempt from taxation in the UAE. Moreover, the free zone areas of the UAE offer lucrative opportunities for businesses. 

In tax-free zones, individuals can enjoy tax-free profits. To add zest to the opportunities, it is worth noting that the UAE has signed double taxation agreements with various countries to ensure that foreign entrepreneurs do not have to pay taxes to their country of origin. 

  1. Tax Residency 

If you register a company in the UAE, it provides you with an opportunity to take up residence as well. The UAE offers long-term visas for entrepreneurs, business owners  and their families that allows them to  stay in the UAE for up to 10 years. The UAE also offers tax residency that significantly reduces the overall tax burden , and provides  the chance of higher profits  increase by leaps and bounds. 

  1. Astounding Infrastructure 

The UAE, with emirates like Sharjah, takes pride in being the hub for astounding infrastructure. Businesses often thrive in regions where other businesses have successfully established their foundations, mainly because of  improved infrastructure, accessibility to talent, and ease of transportation. 

A well-developed city with firmly established infrastructure and economy allows companies to thrive in the market. The UAE is one of the most well-reputed countries and, as a result, serves as a great  option for business owners  from around the world . 

  1. Easy banking 

Businesses around the globe often prefer countries where the transaction is easy. The genuine boost of an organized bank system in a company’s home country is essential for growth. 

Moreover, a company’s success is mainly dependent upon the right form of credit, ease of banking, and accessibility to banks with a global presence. For companies, this notion is not a hassle since there are a multitude of international banks to choose from in the UAE. 

  1. Ownership 

Registering a company in the free zone of the UAE implies that foreign investors will have complete ownership of the company they have established. However, keep in mind that the majority of foreign investors who aim to develop a business on the UAE mainland will need the assistance of a local sponsor.

  1. No Capital requirement 

Amongst the various types of companies registered in the UAE, the free zone possibility is one of the most remunerative. A free zone company is ideal for those who are looking for a “tax relief-invoicing facility.” 

In order to set up a free zone company, there is no minimum capital required or a necessity for an actual office facility. 

Why choose SPC Free Zone?

SPC Free Zone helps provide support to businesses, including an opportunity to opt for a dual license for the mainland and free zone. Each license includes up to 100 visas, too. Moreover, businesses can maximize their profits with zero paid-up share capital, and 100% foreign ownership.

SPC Free Zone also provides an e-commerce license and general trading license for all commercial activities. Our aim is to provide business owners with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate their way.  And also provided 6 valid reasons to register a company in UAE.

SPC Free Zone is here to help with your business setup in the UAE!

6 Low-Investment Tech Startup Ideas In Sharjah

6 low-investment tech startup ideas in Sharjah

Becoming a tech entrepreneur can be a lucrative option for young, talented individuals across the globe. 

Let us walk you through 6 low-investment tech startup ideas in Sharjah that can be high-yielding, and can align with your long-term goals.  

If you are an entrepreneur considering a  tech startup, the last element you need to worry about is the paperwork when you may already have a lot on your plate. SPC Free Zone can assist you in getting started with the necessary documentation and legalities and making the business set up a simple, hassle-free process.

Oftentimes, one falls short of ideas in the race to get to the top. After all, the world is full of options, but you seek something unique, an idea that would resonate with your vision. One of the most preferred niches in the market today is for tech startups that require minimal investments. While being light on the pocket, your tech startup idea needs to be high-yield as well. 

  1. Marketing Company 

Several years ago, the phrase “the world is a global village” came into existence. Today, it stands truer than ever as the internet provides accessibility options from all across the globe. A majority of corporations across the world rely on “marketing” to spread the word. After all, social media has been ablaze in recent times, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Businesses today are reliant on networking online, and that is where “marketing” slides in. With options like google analytics and meta-marketing, companies seek marketing teams to spread the word. A tech startup that focuses on marketing is a low-investment option with high-yield potential. Once the team lead is able to generate a portfolio of top-notch companies, the array of options to work with would be vast. 

  1. Web Design 

For an entrepreneur who is web-inclined, starting a low-investment tech startup directed toward web designing can be a lucrative option. After all, the corporate world of today is heavily reliant on functional and easy-to-navigate web pages that would garner potential customers. If you can assist corporate companies in this regard, then the startup holds the potential to grow exponentially and can churn substantial revenue. If done right, a web design startup with experienced individuals can rise above the expected threshold of performance. 

  1. IT Company 

While some businesses around the globe have focused on their digital journey and online presence, many did not concentrate their efforts on an online market.  The COVID-19 pandemic, however, allowed businesses in virtually all niches to widen their horizon and expand online. Regardless of the need of the hour, the majority may still not have the time, skills, or resources to expand their vision online successfully. The art of managing an online campaign with Ads tailored for the targeted audience is difficult to ascertain for most. In this light, an IT startup is a viable option. 

  1. Software Company 

Amongst low-investment tech startup options, a software house is a feasible option. As an IT professional, one can develop different types of customized software for businesses. Corporations acquire software that would assist in solution provision. While developing a software company, an entrepreneur must remember that proper marketing planning is key. If done right, the software company can grow by leaps and bounds. 

  1. AI (Artificial Intelligence) Services 

A tech-startup company that would provide artificial intelligence services can be a suitable investment option in Sharjah. Since the pandemic, the world has become dependent on artificial intelligence. In the healthcare sector, lab results and biological processes require artificial intelligence to update data sources. 

On cybersecurity platforms, Artificial Intelligence assists in eliminating foreign threats. In the hospitality industry, options like dining reservations and online delivery with instant chat boxes allow seamless service provision. As a result, a tech startup focused on AI services can be feasible and profitable. 

  1. Telehealth and Virtual Medical Services 

In the past few years, the health industry has significantly changed with improvements in its technological niche. Many tech companies today are streaming their services for the healthcare industry. As per recent studies, telecommunication with patients can resolve 80% of primary medical attention required. Moreover, with virtual medical services, hospitals can streamline and improve their services. So, This is why these 6 low-investment tech startup ideas in Sharjah focused on telehealth services can be rewarding.

With digitalization taking strides toward modifying the world’s landscape today, investing in technology is a viable long-term option. Starting a low-investment tech startup in Sharjah through SPC Free Zone can be a feasible option, considering the global competitive landscape.

If you are currently looking to start your own technology business then SPC Free Zone is the right platform for you.

Our seamless business setup process can simplify your new journey and help kickstart a rewarding venture. Here are some tips which ensure your start-up doesn’t fail.

How To Start A Successful Photography Business In UAE

Photography Business in UAE

The UAE is one of the most dominant and sought-after locations for travelers and photographers alike,with its aesthetic locations and modern infrastructure. A photography business in the UAE can thrive and grow for entrepreneurs who are expert photographers will find that a photography business in the UAE has a lot of potential to grow and thrive. If you are wondering how to start a successful photography business in the UAE, we have put together a guide for those just starting out.

Understand the field

Establishing a successful photography business in the UAE requires passion for the field, as well as expertise and experience along with technical knowledge about hardware and software. Prior to establishing a photography business, it is important to understand a few details. For example, it is important to remember that while some work for photography can be completed in-house such as  portraits and photos for official documentation, live shoots require traveling to  onsite locations. One should budget accordingly keeping this in mind. Professional-grade equipment and editing time will also influence the turnover of the business. 

Location

Before establishing your business in the UAE, it is important that you take note of the location. As an entrepreneur in the photography field, you will need to define a targeted audience,  and then decide the location of your office centrally. In this manner, you can provide timely services to your clients and respond to potential clients’ queries

Permissions and Laws

In the UAE, taking photos of people can be a sensitive matter. . Photos of women and families in public places are forbidden. 

Before establishing a successful photography business, you will need to obtain permission from relevant authorities to do so. For example, before beginning work on a commercial campaign, permissions (written or verbal) will need to be obtained from management of the specific location.

Moreover, it is a point to be noted  that photographers in the UAE do not hold the discretion of sharing photos without consent and informing the client(s).

To establish a successful business in the UAE, you will need to focus on all these aspects that would influence your business performance in the long run. SPC Free Zone can help you design a plan for your photography business. You can manage all the required legal documentation and licenses singularly with the help of SPC Free Zone. The documentation you will need depends on the business you plan to establish. Suppose you are looking to set up a studio for family or personal portraits. In that case, a physical office space with staff members will be mandatory. Documentation needs that you may encounter include lease agreement, share certificate, certificate of formation and business activity certificate to name a few. 

Craft your identity in the market 

One of the first steps in establishing a photography business in the UAE is to craft your identity. Today’s world is full of places and spaces where you can promote your photography skills. One of the best ways to grab attention includes creating a portfolio which has relevant and interesting content  that would garner the attention of your targeted audience. 

Once a portfolio has been created, you can set up your online presence. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are viable options. Moreover, you should also consider starting your own website with a detailed section of information regarding your business.  

While crafting your identity, it is important to remember that you would need a niche for yourself. You will need to make a note of the services that have been missing in the market and how you can ensure better provision. Once the intricacies of the business have been defined, it will be a seamless task to market your skills. There are multiple benefits of starting a business in UAE you can also avail yourself of it by enhancing your skill.

License and Legalities Before Starting a Photography Business in the UAE

The most cost-effective way of starting a photography business and obtaining your license is through a Free Zone, such as SPC Free Zone. We aim to provide all entrepreneurs with a supportive platform in order to seamlessly establish their business without the hassle of extensive paperwork and other formalities. Your new photography business can be set up in just 45 minutes. We can also provide UAE residency in just 5 working days with your new business setup, depending on your requirements. Let us turn your passion into a lucrative business venture for you. 

How To Start A Facilities Management Company In The UAE

Facilities Management Company in the UAE

The UAE is an excellent choice if you are considering starting a facilities management company. With its large and rapidly growing market, ample opportunities for growth and favourable business environment, the UAE is the perfect place to start your business.

However, there are a few things you need to know before getting started. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to get your business up and running, the licensing requirements and the costs involved.

We will cover the following topics:

  • What does a facilities management company do?
  • Advantages of starting a facilities management company in the UAE
  • Steps to start a facilities management company in the UAE
  • Documents required to start a facilities management company 
  • Cost of starting a facilities management company
  • Why choose SPC Free Zone?

What does a facilities management company do?

A facilities management company provides a wide range of services that help to keep buildings and grounds in good condition. These companies are responsible for maintaining the facilities themselves and coordinating the work of contractors who provide additional services. Facilities management includes everything from managing office buildings to maintaining hospitals.

In addition to keeping the facilities clean and safe, facilities management companies must also ensure that the building remains safe, secure, and comfortable for tenants. They must also keep up with changing regulations and standards regarding health care, fire prevention, and environmental protection.

Facilities management services are useful for companies of all sizes. Whether the client is a start-up or a Fortune 500 company, having a specialised team manage the property can increase productivity and decrease costs.

Advantages of starting a facilities management company in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates is a rapidly growing market for facilities management services. With its large and rapidly expanding population, there is a growing demand for facilities that meet the highest quality and safety standards. These are some of the many benefits of starting a facilities management company in the UAE:

  1. The UAE has a highly developed infrastructure, which makes it easy to set up and operate a facilities management company.
  2. The country offers a stable and business-friendly environment, which is crucial for any business’s success.
  3. The UAE has a favourable tax regime and offers ample opportunities for business development.
  4. As mentioned earlier, the UAE’s growing economy presents opportunities for facilities management companies to expand their operations. The tourism and business industries are experiencing particularly strong growth, driven by demand from both the public and private sectors. This provides an ideal environment for facilities management companies to grow and flourish.
  5. A facilities management company in the UAE also benefits from a skilled workforce. The UAE has a large pool of talented and experienced professionals who can support all aspects of facilities management. In addition, the labour cost in the UAE is relatively low compared to other countries. 

Steps to start a facilities management company in the UAE

The company formation process in the UAE can be tricky, but by following these simple step-by-step instructions and with a little help from us, it will become much easier. So, below are five basic steps to take when forming your own business:

Step 1: Choose your company’s name

The trade name is a critical component of the legal process. You must choose an appropriate and professional-sounding one and comply with UAE’s strict naming conventions (no harmful or disrespectful language).

Step 2: Decide the jurisdiction

The United Arab Emirates has three economic zones – Mainland, Free Zone and Offshore. Each jurisdiction offers its own business-related laws to cater to various company requirements – your company’s specific needs will determine which one is right for you.

Step 3: Legal structure

You can choose from several legal structures for your business in the UAE. The legal structure of your business greatly impacts how you operate, what taxes to pay and how to organise your resources and assets. Before applying for the licence, you must determine which type best suits your needs.

Step 4: Documentation Submission to the DED

Once you have settled on a company name, an undertaking and a location, complete the necessary paperwork and submit it to DED for endorsement. The DED is responsible for issuing the required licences and permits for establishing a business in the country. The licencing of a company and its formation occur simultaneously. 

Step 5: Obtain Licenses

Once the DED has approved your business activities, you will get the Memorandum of Association, Certificate of Incorporation and other documents. After approval, you can apply for additional documents such as visas, leases and work permits.

Documents required to start a facilities management company

When applying to the DED, whether through a business formation agent or on your own, you will need to provide the following information and paperwork:

  • Copy of the investor’s passport
  • Copy of the local sponsor’s passport (if required)
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) if any shareholder is working in a UAE company
  • Copy of Emirates ID of the shareholder(s)
  • DED registration application form
  • An attested Memorandum of Association from a public notary
  • A certified tenancy contract for the office premises (if any)

During the procedure, you may be asked to provide additional paperwork. Working closely with a company formation agent can be beneficial because they will know exactly what information you need at each process step.

Cost of starting a facilities management company

So, how much does it cost to register a company in UAE? Not as costly as you might think.

The cost of registering your company begins from AED 20,000 onwards. The outlay depends on what kind of business you’re setting up and what services you provide. Additionally, an investor visa costs between AED 4000 to AED 5000, and depending on the number of employee visas you need, their fee ranges between AED 5000 to AED 7000 per visa.

For an accurate quote, get in touch with SPC Free Zone to receive an up-to-date estimate that considers your specific needs. This way, you know you’re paying the lowest possible rate for the services you need.

Why choose SPC Free Zone?

Conveniently located near Sharjah, the SPC Free Zone is a popular business location. Established in 2017, it provides various state-of-the-art infrastructure facilities, including coworking spaces, offices, warehousing and retail stores, all in a regulatory framework favourable to businesses.

SPC Free Zone promotes entrepreneurship and offers business support services, including 100% foreign ownership with zero paid-up capital to companies to help them grow and become economically contributing entities. 

Whether you need an e-commerce license in UAE or a general trading license, we have it covered, offering more than 1,500 commercial activities. Additionally, you can apply for a dual-licensing option that provides mainland and free zone on the same license and up to 20 visas under that license. Furthermore, the on-site immigration services allow you to get your license in under two hours.

Contact SPC Free Zone for help with your business setup in the UAE today!

5 services powering entrepreneurship of publishers at SPCFZ

Sharjah 24: The Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPCFZ), the world’s first printing and publishing free zone, is scaling up efforts to create a nurturing environment for a broad spectrum of publishing, printing, and allied businesses to set up, grow and reach new markets, and contribute to the booming global publishing industry.

The range of affordable solutions for business setup needs at SPCFZ’s integrated ecosystem enables publishers to set up their businesses in just one day in Sharjah’s high-growth and promising investment environment. A range of cost-effective and value-added services are also fuelling the entrepreneurial aspirations of publishers and facilitating their access to global markets. These services save time, are convenient, enhance communication with industry experts, and help publishers focus on growing their businesses.

By choosing a specialised publishing setup package starting from AED 6,875, publishers can benefit from the following services: 

Consultancy services:
 Depending on the primary activity and current and future plans of the business, SPCFZ guides investors in deciding the structure that best suits the organisation. Investors can get pre-approvals, formalise registration of the business, and get the Business License within 45 minutes.

Drafting services:  SPCFZ provides drafting services for vital legal documents that are crucial for the formation of any business including Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Lease Agreements. 

Document services:
 Investors at SPCFZ will be provided with essential documents on finalising the process of company formation. These include Share Certificate, Certificate of Formation, and Business Activity Certificate.

Visa Services:
 SPCFZ offers multiple options that help publishers choose the right residency visa for their business needs. It also speeds up the visa issuance process for investors through a branch of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, port security in the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone.

Other Services: Under the publishing package, investors can nominate up to 5 licensed activities from different categories under one trade license without any additional fees, and the publisher can also register as a member of the Emirates Publishers Association under the agreement of understanding between the free zone and the association.

Salim Omar Salim, Director of SPCFZ, said: “The value-added services under the free zone’s Publishing Package aim to fulfil the unique needs of each investor, whether they are just starting out in the business or looking to expand their operations. Apart from the wide range of benefits accruing to all investors in a free zone, the additional services further enhance the supportive environment at the free zone and take forward our commitment to creating an inclusive ecosystem for regional and international publishers.”

To know more about SPCFZ’s Publishing Package, please visit  https://spcfz.ae/setup-packages

Sharjah Publishing City Highlights Its World-Class Services And Key Incentives To Global Industry Players At ADIBF 2022

The Sharjah Publishing CityFree Zone (SPCFZ) has spotlighted the array of world-class services and unparalleled business incentives it has designed for global players seeking to foray into regional markets, in publishing, creative and other industries at the 31st edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, which runs until May 29 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

SPCFZ has also taken the opportunity to showcase the comprehensive amenities companies operating in the free zone provide, which new entrants can benefit from. These include shipping and logistics, translations, distribution to name a few.

Salim Omar Salim, Director of SPC Free Zone, said: “Our participation in Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is aimed at informing participants and guests from the UAE, the region and around the world about our services and incentives, as well as educate them about ways in which they can leverage these benefits to establish and grow their regional presence out of Sharjah”.

“We have been in several networking meetings with participating publishers, and have discussed the promising opportunities they can transform into successful business results by utilising SPCFZ’s advanced infrastructure in addition to key services to companies from 106 countries that operate in the free zone,” he added.

Leveraging Sharjah’s strategic location between east and west, SPC Free Zone has been playing a key role in bringing publishers from either sides of the world closer, propelling the entry and expansion of industry players into the Gulf, Middle East and North Africa regions. It offers businesses an advantageous free-zone business environment with numerous benefits including 100 percent foreign ownership, best-in-class infrastructure replete with fully-equipped office spaces, and comprehensive allied services like printing, licensing and distribution.

Business License In Sharjah: Costs & Requirements

business license in sharjah

When most people think of business in the UAE, they think of Dubai. However, it is far from all that the UAE has to offer.

Bordering Dubai is the emirate of Sharjah, offering lots of the same benefits along with its own unique culture and customs. In this article, I’ll explore the many great reasons to get a business license in Sharjah including:

  • The steps to get a business license in Sharjah
  • How much it costs to start a business in Sharjah
  • The types of business licenses in Sharjah
  • The benefits of starting a business in Sharjah

Steps to Get a Business License in Sharjah

Get Business License in Sharjah

To get business licenses in Sharjah, you need to carry out the following three-step process.

Step 1: Submit documents and the application and receive the trade license in two hours

When in SPC Free Zone, you can submit your documents online and receive your trade license in just two hours.

You will need to submit your completed application form, including details of your chosen trade name. It helps to choose several potential company names in order of preference in case your first option has already been registered by another business. SPC Free Zone can help you with this step.

On top of this, you will be asked to upload some or all of the following documents:

  • A valid copy of your passport
  • Copy of visa
  • Copy National ID (if applicable)
  • No objection certificate (if required)

Step 2: Register for e-channel and receive an immigration card

With the first important step to get business licenses in Sharjah out of the way, you can now register for e-channel services and apply for your immigration card.

Step 3: Visa processing

With your immigration card in hand, you can now apply for an entry permit. This allows you to stay in the UAE for up to 60 days. You are free to leave and return during this period but it is advised against it as it can cause issues with your immigration file.

Another part of the visa process is medical. This involves biometric scanning, a chest x-ray, and a blood test. At this stage, you can also apply for your Emirates ID which allows you to access vital services in the country.

How Much Does it Cost to Acquire Business Licenses in Sharjah?

Starting a business in Sharjah can cost anywhere between AED 5,000 and AED 30,000+ depending on your requirements. Many factors will play a part in the total cost, from the type of facilities you require to how many employees you have.

To get an accurate and bespoke quotation, get in touch with SPC Free Zone.

Types of Business Licenses in Sharjah

The three types of business licenses in Sharjah are commercial, industrial, and professional. Each license allows the holder to carry out business activities with an umbrella of related industries.

As you might expect, the professional license covers professional services, the commercial license covers trading and other commercial activity, and the industrial license covers manufacturing and other industrial activities.

Benefits of Starting a Business in Sharjah

Sharjah offers entrepreneurs many incredible benefits. Just minutes from Dubai, it offers direct links by land, sea and air with every corner of the globe. Whether trading internally in the UAE or further afield in Africa, Asia and Europe, Sharjah makes for a great base.

Its international airport flies direct to the Middle East, Asia and Europe, while its ports on both the Gulf of Oman and Persian Gulf are a dream for cargo and import/export businesses. Such is the emirate’s incredible infrastructure that it is dubbed the industrial hub of the UAE.

A fast-growing emirate – its population has almost doubled in the last ten years – Sharjah offers incredible opportunities to business owners, such as low-cost labour and licensing. Of course, the emirate also offers all of the incredible advantages of working in the UAE. These include an open and welcoming business environment. VAT remains low at a flat 5%.

When you set up anywhere in the UAE, you’ll also benefit from the nation’s fast, affordable and time-tested company formation and immigration processes.

Why get an SPC Free Zone license when looking for business licenses in Sharjah?

SPC Free Zone makes business setup in the UAE easy. Start up here and you can receive your trade license in under 45 minutes. You can also choose from over 1,500 business activities and apply for up to 20 visas under a single trade license.

The free zone offers 100% foreign ownership in all cases, zero paid-up share capital, on-site immigration services, and dual mainland and free zone license options – all conveniently located right in the heart of Sharjah.

Want to know more? Get in touch on 800 SPCFZ (77239) or 00971 800 SPCFZ (77239).

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SPCFZ highlights its services to global industry players at ADIBF

Sharjah24 : The Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPCFZ) has spotlighted the array of world-class services and unparalleled business incentives it has designed for global players seeking to foray into regional markets, in publishing, creative and other industries at the 31st edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, which runs until May 29 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

SPCFZ has also taken the opportunity to showcase the comprehensive amenities companies operating in the free zone provide, which new entrants can benefit from. These include shipping and logistics, translations, distribution to name a few.

Salim Omar Salim, Director of SPC Free Zone, said: “Our participation in Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is aimed at informing participants and guests from the UAE, the region and around the world about our services and incentives, as well as educate them about ways in which they can leverage these benefits to establish and grow their regional presence out of Sharjah”.

“We have been in several networking meetings with participating publishers, and have discussed the promising opportunities they can transform into successful business results by utilising SPCFZ’s advanced infrastructure in addition to key services to companies from 106 countries that operate in the free zone,” he added.

Leveraging Sharjah’s strategic location between east and west, SPC Free Zone has been playing a key role in bringing publishers from either sides of the world closer, propelling the entry and expansion of industry players into the Gulf, Middle East and North Africa regions. It offers businesses an advantageous free-zone business environment with numerous benefits including 100 percent foreign ownership, best-in-class infrastructure replete with fully-equipped office spaces, and comprehensive allied services like printing, licensing and distribution.

SBA showcases Sharjah’s pioneering efforts in enriching the publishing industry at MIBF

Sharjah Book Authority welcomed delegation headed by Oman’s Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth at the SBA Pavilion

Press Release March 7, 2022

Muscat: As part of its mission to reinforce Sharjah’s cultural ties with the region and the wider Arab world, the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) participated in the 26th Muscat International Book Fair, where 715 publishers from 27 countries exhibited their publications.

At the SBA pavilion, visitors and guests of the book fair were introduced to Sharjah’s cultural project, and to the ongoing efforts of SBA in enriching the publishing industry through innovative initiatives and hosting of international events including the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) and Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF). SBA also showcased the facilities and extensive range of business support services offered by the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone), and the vital support offered to publishers, translators, and content creators by the Sharjah International Literary Agency (SILA).

During the book fair, HE Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Chairman of SBA, received His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth in Oman, and a delegation of high ranking Omani officials and cultural figures to the SBA pavilion. The SBA Chairman presented the Minister with a copy of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah’s newly published ‘The History of Al Ya’ariba in Oman’ and ‘Friendship and Trade Treaty between the King of Portugal and the Sultan of Zanzibar in 1879 AD’’.

The Omani Minister lauded the keen interest and efforts of the Ruler of Sharjah in documenting the history of the region to preserve it for the benefit of future generations.

During the book fair, HE Al Ameri also met with HE Sayyid Said bin Sultan al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, to discuss cooperation opportunities to support the publishing industry and draw attention to the outstanding literary output of the two countries at international events and exhibitions.

Commenting on SBA’s participation at the book fair, Al Ameri said: “SBA’s participation in Muscat International Book Fair stems from the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to build cultural bridges between nations and takes forward SBA’s agenda of celebrating book fairs at the local and international levels in support of creatives and publishers.”

The SBA Chairman added: “Through its regional and international participation, SBA is keen on spotlighting the strengths of the Emirati cultural scene and introduce visitors, publishers, and dignitaries at book fairs to Sharjah’s cultural project and its efforts in enhancing the publishing sector in the region. Our participation also aims to instill and promote the culture of reading, which is a cornerstone of building knowledge-based communities.”

During the international event, the SBA Chairman met with several directors of book fairs across the Arab region. He introduced them to the various cultural events and initiatives organised locally and regionally by the Authority, and briefed them on the ongoing efforts to boost Emirati and Arab literature at the international level in a bid to build cultural bridges around the world.

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