Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) has proudly achieved the “Great Place to Work” certification for the 2025-2026 period, marking its second consecutive year of receiving this esteemed accolade. This recognition highlights the positive and thriving work culture developed within the free zone’s administrative department, serving as a strong endorsement from its most critical stakeholders—its employees.

The certification is awarded based on direct and anonymous employee feedback gathered through targeted surveys. SPC Free Zone’s success was driven by exceptional scores in various categories, including Workplace Hospitality, Leadership Behaviour, Innovation, Engagement, Equity, Collaboration, and Safety. These impressive ratings reflect an environment where employees feel welcomed, respected, empowered, and secure.

Saif Al Suwaidi, Director of SPC Free Zone, commented that the organization believes human capital is crucial for sustainable institutional success. He emphasized that being certified as a Great Place to Work for a second year is a direct result of the guidance and support from Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority. Al Suwaidi noted that this accomplishment highlights how a healthy and attractive work environment positively influences team performance and extends to the broader business community.

Currently, over 9,600 companies operate within an ecosystem that inspires growth, creativity, and sustainability, enhancing the free zone’s capability to attract international partners and reinforce its status as a global hub for knowledge and investment.

SPC Free Zone has also introduced various policies and initiatives aimed at fostering growth, connection, and well-being among employees. A notable initiative is the SPC Academy, which offers all employees regular monthly learning and development workshops, providing access to cross-departmental training. This program is designed to enhance the organization’s understanding of its dynamics and empower individuals to broaden their skill sets and career paths.

To promote engagement and inclusion, the free zone has curated a calendar full of meaningful activities that strengthen bonds and celebrate diversity. This includes recognizing international days, raising awareness for various causes, hosting annual gala dinners to reward exceptional achievements, and organizing Iftars during Ramadan to foster community spirit.

Recognizing the importance of physical and mental health, the free zone also hosts bi-weekly free sports events to encourage employees to socialize, stay active, and recharge together.

Additionally, the SPC Cares Corporate Social Responsibility program enhances the organization’s value through employee-driven participation in new volunteer initiatives and sustainability projects. Following significant actions, such as distributing iftar meals to those in need during Ramadan, SPC aims to become the first UAE free zone to integrate social impact as a core pillar of its employee experience and organizational identity.

SPC Free Zone is a globally connected business ecosystem that hosts companies from over 40 countries. It is recognized for its specialized community of over 1,500 publishers and creators of educational and cultural content, combining state-of-the-art facilities with an environment of innovation and sustainability. In late 2024, SPC Free Zone launched the world’s first AI-powered business license, which can complete registration in under five minutes.

This commitment to technological leadership and people-first values, as evidenced by the recent “Great Place to Work” certification, positions SPC Free Zone as a unique gateway for entrepreneurs and enterprises seeking growth within the UAE’s dynamic business economy.