Author: Melban Mascarenhas
Published: July 25, 2025
Updated on: Nov 27, 2025
A free zone trade license is one of the best and most affordable methods to start a business in the UAE. Dubai's free zones are well-known, but Sharjah is gradually becoming a smart choice, especially with platforms like SPC Free Zone offering quick setup, visa support, and lower overall costs.
According to a recent business report, Sharjah's GDP rose by 6.5% reaching AED 145.2 billion, driven by greater investments in different businesses and industries.
This guide breaks down the Dubai free zone license cost, including setup costs and visa packages, and explores why SPC Free Zone might be the best alternative for businesses on a budget.
The Dubai free zone license cost in 2025 continues to be shaped by multiple market drivers:
As free zones improve their infrastructure and digital onboarding processes, demand for business licenses is increasing. This has broadened the price range between high-end and budget-friendly free zones.
Licenses for certain activities, such as trading or consulting, might raise the base price, especially in renowned economic zones. Similarly, opting for office space or multiple visas will also increase costs.
SPC Free Zone stands out as a strong choice because it offers:
While Dubai remains a popular destination for investors, Sharjah is becoming a better alternative, especially for entrepreneurs seeking quick entry, growth opportunities, and lower startup costs. SPC Free Zone provides infrastructure comparable to Dubai's but with the benefits of streamlined processes.
Your visa quota significantly impacts the Dubai free zone company setup cost. Free zones typically offer various packages:
With each progression, visa allocation increases, raising the entire cost, which includes establishment cards, visa processing, and Emirates ID.
Many business owners look for a free zone license Dubai with visa cost to better plan their budgets. Depending on the free zone, licenses with one visa in Dubai can cost between AED 10,000 and AED 35,000.
SPC Free Zone offers similar benefits, if not more, with competitive rates, making it ideal for startups and growing companies.
Ideal for solo entrepreneurs or online stores, such as e-commerce startups.
SPC Free Zone pricing: Starting from AED 6,875
For business owners who want to reside in the UAE.
SPC Free Zone pricing: Starting from AED 8,475
This package allows you to work in both the free zone and the mainland. SPC Free Zone handles the entire dual structure, eliminating the need for a separate mainland sponsor.
Setting up at a low price does not mean lower quality. SPC Free Zone offers essential services, visa management, and a flexible structure to run operations smoothly without overinvesting upfront.
The Dubai free zone trade license cost varies depending on workspace requirements:
SPC Free Zone provides tailored workspace solutions. Depending on team size and budget, entrepreneurs can choose:
For those seeking the cheapest free zone license Dubai, virtual and desk-sharing options remain the most affordable. SPC Free Zone's flexible payment plans and value-based services make it easy to build and grow at your own pace.
The average free zone license fee Dubai businesses pay varies based on chosen activity. Here are typical price ranges in 2025:
Cost range: AED 10,000 to AED 50,000
Depending on your chosen Dubai free zone, business activity, and office type. These licenses support:
Cost range: AED 10,000 to AED 30,000
Designed for:
Cost range: AED 8,000 to AED 25,000
Typically chosen by:
Setup fees vary depending on:
SPC Free Zone allows you to combine multiple activities under one license starting from AED 6,875, providing better value with:
For example, you can combine consultancy and trading, reducing the need for multiple licenses.
When budgeting for long-term operations, renewal fees are critical.
Typical range: AED 6,000 to AED 12,000
Depends on:
| Item | Cost | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Establishment Card renewal | Approx. AED 640 | Every 2 years |
| E-Channel renewal | AED 2,280 | Per renewal |
| Visa and Emirates ID renewal | AED 2,530 | 2 years |
SPC Free Zone offers transparent, upfront pricing on renewal costs. Founders can plan ahead with fixed packages that avoid mid-year surprises.
The Dubai free zone license package cost in 2025 varies, but SPC Free Zone offers one of the lowest price points in the UAE.
Price: Starting at AED 6,500 for license and lease agreement
With SPC Free Zone, you receive the benefits of a well-connected business location without paying premium prices. Their efficient structure includes:
This makes it a standout choice for startups and SMEs.
The Dubai free zone business license price in 2025 depends on several factors:
Dubai remains a popular place for business, but free zones like SPC Free Zone in Sharjah provide similar infrastructure at more affordable rates for both setup and renewal.
When deciding where to set up, consider more than just location. Factors that often make a bigger difference include:
Explore SPC Free Zone's 2025 setup options with flexible license and visa packages.
Know someone who wants to grow their business? Refer them to SPC Free Zone and earn up to AED 1,500! Simply fill our referral form and we'll handle the rest.
The Dubai free zone license cost in 2025 ranges between AED 8,000 and AED 50,000, depending on the number of visas allocated and the type of business.
A package for the cheapest free zone license in Dubai with visa costs approximately AED 8,475.
Depending on your visa quota and setup, the annual renewal fee is usually between AED 6,000 and AED 12,000.
Yes, you can choose between virtual and co-working packages, so you do not need to rent office space.
Yes, SPC Free Zone has similar benefits but costs less, and businesses can set up quickly and digitally.
Packages with one visa usually range from AED 10,000 covering the Dubai free zone license cost and essentials. Sharjah free zones like SPC Free Zone have licenses with visas starting from AED 8,475.
Yes, SPC Free Zone lets you combine multiple activities like consultancy and trading under a single license.
Typically, it covers:
Extras may increase your Dubai free zone license cost.
Most free zones offer visa processing support as part of your setup plan. Processing times and costs may vary.
It usually takes 5–7 working days with complete documents. Fast-track services are available in the SPC Free Zone.
About SPC Free Zone
SPC Free Zone is a business setup platform in Sharjah, UAE, offering affordable free zone licenses, visa processing, and business support services for entrepreneurs and SMEs.