Author: Rashid Mohammed
Published: July 23, 2024
Updated on: Nov 27, 2025
Selecting the ideal free zone for your business is a critical decision that can significantly impact your bottom line. With numerous options available in the UAE, understanding the cost implications of each is essential. This comprehensive analysis delves into the key factors to consider when comparing free zones in the UAE.
By examining factors such as license fees, visa costs, office space rentals, and additional services, this article will empower you to make an informed decision that aligns with your business goals and budget.
Several key factors should be carefully evaluated when comparing different options for business setup in Dubai, UAE.
License Fees are a fundamental expense. The base cost of obtaining a business license varies significantly between free zones. Additionally, fees for including extra business activities beyond the base license package can differ. It's essential to consider the long-term costs as well, including annual license renewal fees, as these costs can accumulate over time and impact your overall business expenses.
Visa Costs constitute another significant expenditure. The fees associated with obtaining employment visas for staff can vary widely among free zones. Factors such as visa processing time, additional services offered, and renewal costs should be carefully considered. Understanding these expenses is crucial for budgeting your HR costs effectively.
Office Space is another critical cost component. Rental rates for office space can vary significantly based on location, size, and amenities offered. Additionally, setup costs, such as office fit-out and furniture, should be factored in. Ongoing expenses, including utilities like electricity, water, and internet, can also contribute to overall costs.
To get a comprehensive understanding of the cost differences between SPC Free Zone and other free zones, it's important to look at specific numbers. While exact figures can fluctuate, this comparison offers a general overview of why SPCFZ can be the ideal option for your business licenses.
| Free Zone Type | E-commerce License | Standard Trade License |
|---|---|---|
| SPC Free Zone | Starting at AED 5,750 | Starting at AED 6,875 |
| Other Free Zones | AED 8,000 to AED 15,000 | AED 8,000 to AED 15,000 |
| Free Zone Type | Visa Allocation Cost per Visa |
|---|---|
| SPC Free Zone | Approximately AED 1,600 |
| Other Free Zones | AED 1,800 to AED 2,500 |
SPC Free Zone: Office space rental prices vary depending on location and size. However, you receive a flexi-desk with your business license.
Other Free Zones: Office space rentals can be significantly higher, especially in prime locations.
While specific fees for additional services vary, SPC Free Zone's pay-as-you-go model often results in lower overall costs compared to bundled packages offered by other free zones. You can also benefit from the 0% interest Easy Payment Plan offered to credit cardholders of affiliated banks.
Selecting the right free zone for your business is a critical decision. While cost is a crucial factor, it's essential to consider other elements such as business-friendly regulations, infrastructure, and available support services.
The Sharjah free zone, SPC Free Zone, offers a competitive advantage with its flexible licensing options, competitive pricing, and transparent cost structure. By utilising the cost calculator, you can independently estimate your business setup costs and make informed decisions.
To make the most of your business venture, try the cost calculator to compare your options and identify the best fit for your business.
The key cost factors include:
SPC Free Zone offers:
In comparison, other free zones typically charge between AED 8,000 to AED 15,000 for a basic package.
SPC Free Zone visa allocation costs approximately AED 1,600 per visa, while other free zones charge between AED 1,800 to AED 2,500 per visa.
Yes, you receive a flexi-desk with your business license at SPC Free Zone. Office space rental prices vary depending on location and size, but are generally lower than other free zones, especially in prime locations.
SPC Free Zone's pay-as-you-go model allows businesses to pay only for the services they need, often resulting in lower overall costs compared to bundled packages offered by other free zones. Additionally, credit cardholders of affiliated banks can benefit from a 0% interest Easy Payment Plan.
SPC Free Zone is a Sharjah-based free zone offering flexible and cost-effective business setup solutions in the UAE. With competitive pricing, transparent cost structures, and a range of value-added services, SPC Free Zone helps entrepreneurs and businesses establish their presence in the UAE market.
Start Your Business:
SPC Plus Value Added Services:
Resources:
Partner Programs:
For more information about SPC Free Zone and business setup options: