When comparing SRTIP vs SPC free zones to set up your business, SRTIP offers a more affordable license and setup costs and easier bank account opening. SPC free zone offers an instant license and more media-related activities.
Both free zones offer 100% foreign ownership, eligibility for 0% Corporate Tax, and no minimum share capital requirement.Â
SRTIP Free Zone
Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park was set up in 2016 to support tech, R&D, and innovation companies. It’s based in Sharjah, close to University City, and gives founders on-site prototyping labs, a 3D studio, an electronics lab, and access to the Sharjah Business Angels Network.Â
Available Business Activities
SRTIP’s free zone business activities span more than 2,000 approved options, mostly grouped around tech, R&D, and innovation work. These are the main activity categories:
- Software and IT: Software development, cloud solutions, cybersecurity, or IT consulting activities
- R&D and product development: Prototyping, product testing, and applied research across sectors like renewable energy and life sciences
- Advanced manufacturing and robotics: Robotics, automation, or EV engineering activities
- Consulting: Management consulting, engineering consultancy, or environmental advisory work
- Creative and digital: Design, architecture, or digital content creation activities
- E-commerce: Run an online store, sell digital products, or operate on a marketplace
- The zone also connects founders to accelerator programs and research partnerships with over 20 universities.
Cost of Setting Up a Business
SRTIP’s free zone license cost starts at AED 5,500 for a zero-visa package. It costs between AED 5,500 to AED 30,000 to set up a business in the SRTIP free zone, including office and visa requirements. These are the main costs:
Cost Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
License-only package | From 5,500 |
License with 2 visas | Around 18,000 |
Medical fitness test | Around 320 |
Emirates ID | Around 370 |
Establishment card | Around 200 |
Paid-up capital | Not required |
Visa Process
SRTIP issues employment visas for owners and staff, following the standard steps for any UAE residence visa: entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa issuance. SRTIP free zone visa approval usually takes 1-2 weeks once your license is issued.Â
SPC Free Zone
Sharjah Publishing City started as the world’s first publishing-only free zone. It now covers more than 1,500 activities across media, education, e-commerce, and general trading.
Available Business Activities
SPC now covers more than 1,500 approved activities, though its licenses still center on publishing and media. These are the main license types:
- Publishing License: You can print, publish, and distribute books, magazines, and other media.
- Media License: You can operate in digital media, broadcasting, or advertising.
- Service License: You can offer consultancy, training, or other publishing-related services.
- Trading License: You can import, export, or distribute publishing materials and equipment.
Many activities outside publishing, like computer programming and general consultancy, are still licensed under these same categories.
Cost of Setting Up a Business
Setting up a business in SPC Free Zone starts from AED 6,875 for a standard zero-visa license. Total first-year costs depend on the size of your office (flexi-desk, private space) and the number of visas you require.
- 0-visa package: Starts at AED 6,875
- 1-visa package: Around AED 13,000 to AED 15,000, including immigration fees
- 2-visa package: Around AED 18,000 to AED 20,000, including visa allocation and processing
Visa Process
The SPC Free Zone visa application runs through the Sharjah immigration portal. Once your trade license is active, you apply for an establishment card and entry permit, complete the mandatory medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics, and receive your electronic residence visa. It usually takes 7 to 10 working days to get an SPC free zone visa.Â
SRTIP vs SPC Free Zone: Which One Should I Pick?
You should pick the SRTIP free zone if you build tech products, software, or need lower startup costs. You should set up your business in the SPC free zone if you run a publishing, media, or basic trading business.
Feature | SRTIP Free Zone | SPC Free Zone |
Best For | Tech startups, software, R&D, and innovation | Publishing, print media, content, and trading |
Starting Cost (0 Visa) | From AED 5,500 | From AED 6,875 |
Extra Perks | Prototyping labs, 3D studios, university access | Fast 2-hour setup, flexible activity mixing |
Business Activities | 2,000+ tech, IT, consulting & trading options | 1,500+ media, publishing & trading options |
Start a Business With SRTIP Accelerator
SRTIP Accelerator has helped entrepreneurs and startups set up their business, with affordable licensing packages and hands-on support at every step. Our expert team handles your license, visas, and opening a corporate bank account. Book a free consultation to get your SRTIP free zone business up and running.
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FAQs
How much does an SRTIP free zone license cost?
You can get a zero-visa SRTIP license starting at AED 5,500. Your total setup cost will range between AED 5,500 and AED 30,000 depending on the number of residency visas, office facilities, and operational permits you include.Â
What is the purpose of SRTIP?
SRTIP free zone was established in 2016 to grow Sharjah’s tech, R&D, and innovation sectors. The zone provides you with prototyping laboratories, university research connections, and accelerator programs tailored for tech, trading, and e-commerce founders.
How much does it cost to renew a free zone license in Sharjah?
You can expect your annual license renewal in Sharjah free zones to start around AED 5,500 to AED 6,875 for basic zero-visa packages. Your final annual renewal cost will vary depending on your specific free zone, license category, and active visa quotas.
