Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone Boosts Services With Round-the-Clock Support

In a strategic move to cater to the growing needs of entrepreneurs and investors, the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) has unveiled an expansion of its operations, now offering 24/7 support to its clientele. This initiative is set to revolutionize the ease of doing business in the region by promising a swift three business days turnaround for clients aiming to open bank accounts in the UAE. The announcement, made at a press conference held at the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) headquarters, underscores the Free Zone's commitment to enhancing its digital and electronic processes for business licensing.

Mansour Al Hassani, Director of SPC Free Zone, emphasized the significance of this development. Since its establishment in 2017 by H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammed Al Qasimi, the Free Zone has emerged as a pivotal force in economic diversification and growth. It now hosts over 10,000 companies engaging in more than 2,000 commercial activities. The latest service enhancements aim to simplify business setup procedures and expand the range of services offered, including facilitating the issuance of business licences and assisting in securing office spaces.

The revised services are designed to support international cooperation and global business expansion. They allow for the registration of share ownership for up to seven shareholders and offer the possibility of obtaining an unlimited number of visas for partners and investors. Additionally, certificates detailing permitted business activities for each licence are provided, boosting client trust and highlighting the operational excellence of the free zone.

A notable feature of the SPC Free Zone's enhanced services is the expedited process for opening bank accounts, which can now be completed within three working days. This is supported by a streamlined payment scheme for credit card holders from over 35 local, regional, and international partner banks and financial institutions. Such initiatives are aimed at fostering closer relationships between the free zone and financial institutions, thereby accelerating business processes.

Al Hassani's keynote speech also touched on the SPC Free Zone's role as a comprehensive centre for creative industries. The zone's commitment to upgrading and innovating its services reflects a dedication to bolstering the business ecosystem in Sharjah and the UAE at large. This approach not only meets the evolving needs of local and global business communities but also positions Sharjah at the forefront of economic service and community advancement.

Among other services provided by SPC Free Zone are NOC (No Objection Certificate) certificates that enable companies to lease spaces beyond their confines within the UAE. This facilitates business expansion while ensuring swift processing of UAE residency within five working days. Additionally, licences recognised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Municipalities are offered without the need for third-party approvals. This minimizes procedural delays and administrative burdens, ultimately enhancing the ease of business startup and operation.

The SPC Free Zone's latest initiative is a testament to its ongoing efforts to support economic growth and sustainability in Sharjah, reinforcing its status as a premier hub of commerce in the region.

With inputs from WAM