SPARK

SESP — SME Engagement & Scaling Program (Virtual Free Zone Licence)

Virtual SPARK Free Zone licence for founders/SMEs — UAE presence without immediate relocation; pathway to physical tenancy.

Overview

SESP (SME Engagement & Scaling Program) provides a virtual SPARK Free Zone licence so international founders and SMEs can establish a real UAE presence, operate remotely, and transition to physical space when ready. Participants get: discounted UAE Free Zone licence entry (upgradable to visa allocations and physical space), prestigious SRTIP business address, flexidesk and meeting-room access when in the UAE, discounted soft-landing stays, ecosystem access (10,000+ companies), events/labs/research partnerships, warm introductions, and the quarterly SESP Webinar Series. How it works (≈4 days): choose business activity → submit documents online → receive UAE licence digitally → open bank account (visa-dependent).

Learning objectives

  • Establish credible UAE science & technology free-zone presence remotely
  • Operate within SPARK ecosystem with pathway to physical tenancy
  • Access webinars, labs, events, and warm introductions

Modules / structure

  • Q1 Webinar — The Landscape: Sharjah & Beyond
  • Q2 Webinar — The Setup: Remote Operations
  • Q3 Webinar — The Build: SoiLAB Prototyping
  • Q4 Webinar — The Scale: Funding & Growth
  • Day 1 — Choose licensed business activity
  • Day 2 — Submit documents online
  • Day 3 — Receive UAE licence digitally
  • Day 4 — Bank account guidance (visa-dependent)

Admission

Aimed at international founders, SMEs, and companies at UAE market-entry stage. Passport, application form, and supporting documents required (digital portal; no physical visit for virtual licence). Final licensing subject to SPARK / SRTIP assessment.