SHARJAH, UAE, 19 October 2026 - Beehive, the DFSA-regulated SME finance provider and an etisalat company, has signed a partnership with Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) to support the growth of businesses based in the free zone. It was signed at the Sharjah Investment Forum on 14th October 2026.
The partnership gives SPC Free Zone companies a direct route to Beehive's Sharia-compliant business finance.
Beehive will work with SPC Free Zone through a dedicated team, and the two will work together on events and marketing to reach SPC companies.
What the partnership means for SPC Free Zone companies
Growing businesses often reach a point where the plan is ready, but the cash isn't. Through the partnership, SPC companies can apply for:
Term Finance: This type of long-term funding provides SMEs with up to AED 2 million, repayable over 12 or 24 months. Businesses can use it for planned growth, such as equipment, premises, or a new contract.
Working Capital Finance: A short-term funding option against business invoices, so growth doesn't have to wait for clients' payments. It gives businesses up to AED 2.5 million, repayable in 90 –120 days.
Applications are reviewed by Beehive's credit team, who give a clear answer on whether the finance fits.
A word from Beehive
"We're delighted to be partnering with Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone. Many of the businesses based at SPC Free Zone reach the point where the plan is ready, but the funding isn't: a contract to deliver, stock to buy, a team to grow. This partnership gives them a straightforward route to finance built for SMEs, whether that's Term Finance for the next stage of growth or Working Capital Finance to bridge the wait for invoices to be paid. We look forward to supporting SPC's Free Zone companies as they grow," said Peter Tavener, CEO and Co-founder, Beehive.
How SPC Free Zone companies can get involved
Beehive finances established businesses. To apply for Term Finance, a business needs at least two years of trading and a minimum annual revenue of AED 2 million. Working Capital Finance has its own criteria, including invoicing other businesses. SPC Free Zone companies that meet the criteria can check their eligibility here, or ask the SPC team to introduce them to Beehive.
About Beehive
Beehive provides Sharia-compliant business finance to established UAE SMEs. It's regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) and is an etisalat company. Founded in 2014, Beehive is based in DIFC, Dubai.
About Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) is a government-backed free zone authority and subsidiary of Sharjah Book Authority, established in 2017 by Royal Decree of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah. Originally established to support the publishing and printing industries, SPC Free Zone now supports entrepreneurs and businesses across multiple industries, including e-commerce, technology, consulting, media, and general trading, with more than 19,000 active companies and licenses for 2,000+ business activities. Offering 100% foreign ownership, instant licensing services, remote setup options, and free coworking spaces for license holders, SPC Free Zone provides flexible business setup solutions for entrepreneurs establishing and growing their businesses in the UAE.
Media enquiries
Oliver Bass, Beehive
oliver.bass@beehive.ae
