Client

The first of its kind, Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone, is a subsidiary of the Sharjah Book Authority, offering a unique ecosystem dedicated to empowering the global print and publishing industry. Operating 24/7, SPC Free Zone streamlines the entry process for entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the lucrative UAE market. Their pioneering “Instant License” service expedites business setup, while tackling everything from residency visas and corporate banking to immigration processes and securing office or warehouse space. Despite these advantages, SPC Free Zone faced a challenge: effectively communicating the breadth and depth of their offerings to a global audience of entrepreneurs.

While Dubai attracts entrepreneurs with promises of luxury, Sharjah is a hidden gem. Often-overlooked, it offers a compelling alternative for entrepreneurs seeking a cost-effective and dynamic environment to launch their ventures. Compared to its Dubai counterparts, SPC offers a significantly lower barrier to entry, making it especially attractive for startups and entrepreneurs with budget considerations. But affordability wasn’t the only story to tell. SPC provides access to a staggering 2,000+ business activities, catering to a wide range of industries beyond just publishing. We needed to effectively communicate the breadth of opportunities available to a diverse audience of entrepreneurs seeking a foothold in the UAE market.

We understood the key to success lay in segmenting the audience. We didn’t target entrepreneurs with a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we meticulously researched and identified distinct groups based on industry focus (e.g., technology, logistics, design), company size (startups, SMEs), and budget constraints. We leveraged Google Ads, LinkedIn, and industry-specific platforms to display targeted ads with compelling messaging. We also created a diverse library of content – blog posts, Activity Hub articles – that addressed the challenges and opportunities relevant to each audience segment. To overcome language barriers, we ensured all content and marketing materials were translated into key languages (English, Arabic, French, etc.). Cultural nuances were meticulously considered to ensure maximum reach and engagement. We integrated cost comparisons and transparent pricing structures into all marketing materials, and implemented website tracking tools and social media analytics to measure campaign performance in real-time. Landing pages were optimised for lead generation, and A/B testing allowed us to refine messaging and identify the content that resonated most with each audience segment.

The campaign launched, and the strategic approach fueled its success. Targeted online advertising resulted in a significant increase in website traffic, with a surge in visits from entrepreneurs across various industries. Website inquiries for business setup procedures within SPC Free Zone increased, a testament to the effectiveness of our pricing transparency. Within a remarkable two months, we shattered their previous sales record.

The true measure of success lies in the impact. SPC Free Zone witnessed a significant increase in the number of entrepreneurs from diverse industries setting up shop within the free zone. This influx of businesses not only boosted Sharjah’s economy but also cemented its reputation as a viable and cost-effective alternative to Dubai for business establishment in the UAE.

By strategically optimising keywords, crafting compelling ad copy, and enhancing landing page experiences, we achieved significant results. We dominated search engine results pages, increased lead generation, and drove substantial revenue growth.