Publishers and content creators looking to establish their presence in Sharjah, UAE, often encounter two distinct licensing options: the Sharjah Publishing License and the Sharjah publishing city license. While both licenses enable entities to operate within the publishing industry, there are notable differences between them. In this comparison guide, we elucidate the disparities between the Sharjah Publishing License and the Sharjah Publishing City License, providing clarity for entrepreneurs seeking to understand the regulatory framework of publishing in Sharjah.
Scope of operation:
The primary difference between the two licenses lies in the scope of operation they offer. The Sharjah Publishing License permits entities to engage in publishing activities within the emirate of Sharjah. This license is suitable for traditional publishing houses, self-publishing authors, and printing companies operating within Sharjah’s jurisdiction. In contrast, the Sharjah Publishing City License, offered by Sharjah Publishing City (SPC), provides broader opportunities for entities to operate within a specialized free zone dedicated to the publishing industry. SPC’s license extends beyond Sharjah’s borders, allowing businesses to benefit from the free zone’s incentives, infrastructure, and supportive ecosystem while accessing global markets.
Regulatory framework:
Another key distinction between the two licenses is the regulatory framework they adhere to. The Sharjah Publishing License operates under the regulations and guidelines set forth by the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) and other relevant government authorities in Sharjah. Entities holding this license must comply with the legal requirements and standards applicable to publishing activities within the emirate. On the other hand, the Sharjah Publishing City License operates within the regulatory framework established by Sharjah Publishing City (SPC), which offers a tailored set of regulations and incentives designed to support the publishing industry’s growth and innovation. SPC’s regulatory framework is specifically crafted to meet the needs of publishers, authors, and content creators operating within the free zone, providing a conducive environment for business expansion and development.
Infrastructure and support services:
Entities holding the Sharjah Publishing License rely on their own infrastructure and resources to conduct publishing activities within Sharjah. While they may benefit from local amenities and services available in the emirate, they do not have access to the specialized infrastructure and support services offered by Sharjah Publishing City. In contrast, entities holding the Sharjah Publishing City License have access to state-of-the-art facilities, world-class infrastructure, and a broad range of support services provided by SPC. These include modern office spaces, printing facilities, distribution hubs, logistics services, and networking opportunities tailored to the needs of the publishing industry, enabling businesses to enhance their operations and competitiveness within the global market.