More than 1,000 AI-related companies have established operations at Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone), according to an announcement from the UAE-based business hub.
The companies cover AI research, innovation and consulting, model training, AI-powered solutions, intelligent systems and robotics. Of the total, 691 focus on research, innovation and consulting, 125 on model training, 110 on AI-powered solutions and 26 on intelligent systems and robotics.
The announcement cited Grand View Research projections that the UAE’s AI market will grow at a compound annual rate of 36.3% between 2026 and 2033, reaching about $97.45B by 2033.
SPC Free Zone said company formation packages start at AED 5,750, with licenses available immediately. Selected applications can be completed through its AI-powered licensing system, while investors can obtain UAE residency within five working days and receive support with corporate bank account openings within three working days.
Businesses can choose from more than 2,000 activities, combine up to five activities under one license and operate with 100% foreign ownership without a paid-up capital requirement. A dual-licensing option supports operations in both the free zone and the UAE mainland.
Saif Al Suwaidi, director of SPC, said the free zone is focused on helping technology companies establish efficiently, access markets and scale. The AI companies form part of a wider community of more than 20,000 businesses from 173 countries.
Source: Zawya
