Jebel Ali Free Zone Business Setup | JAFZA Dubai

Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is one of the most popular free zones in the UAE, as it stands as a global hub for various business activities. It is the world’s largest logistics and R&D-driven industrial area, thanks to its strategic location in Dubai.

JAFZA is renowned for its business-friendly policies, modern infrastructure, and strategic location, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and multinational corporations alike. Setting up a business in JAFZA can significantly enhance your company’s growth potential and global reach.

If you wish to set up a business in Dubai, JAFZA might be the best place for you to get started. You will be able to enjoy various incentives and leverage Dubai’s business-friendly ecosystem.

Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is one of the most prominent and well-established free zones in Dubai, offering an ideal environment for businesses to thrive. Strategically located near Jebel Ali Port, the largest man-made harbor in the world, and Al Maktoum International Airport, JAFZA provides unparalleled connectivity and logistics advantages.

Developed in 1985, JAFZA is a vital part of Dubai’s economy with well-established infrastructure and facilities to help business startups. Today, Jebel Ali Free Zone houses over 10,000 businesses, including 100+ Fortune Global 500 companies such as Mercedes, Nestle, Canon, Caterpillar, and Reckitt Benckiser.

  • 100% Foreign Ownership: Full 100% ownership rights without the need for a local partner.
  • Tax Exemptions: Enjoy zero corporate tax and zero personal income tax, thus maximizing your profits.
  • No Custom Duties: There are no customs duties on the import and export of goods and services within JAFZA.
  • Repatriation of Profits and Capital: Complete freedom to repatriate profits and capital.
  • No Currency Restrictions: Conduct business in any currency.
  • Strategic Location: Proximity to Dubai’s largest port, Jebel Ali Port, and Al Maktoum International Airport ensures seamless logistics.
  • State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: Access to world-class facilities and services, including warehouses, office space, factories, and more.
  • Efficient Business Setup Process: Streamlined procedures for quick and hassle-free company formation.

Types of Business Formation in JAFZA Dubai

  • Free Zone Establishment (FZE): A single shareholder entity. FZE is ideal for entrepreneurs who want to start their own company in Dubai.
  • Free Zone Company (FZCO): A multi-shareholder entity. FZCO is ideal for large businesses with multiple shareholders.
  • Branch of a Company: Extension of an existing company. These companies are subjected to the same regulations and taxes as their parent company.
  • Offshore Company: A non-resident company ideal for international business. It is not physically present in the UAE, and the number of shareholders is unrestricted.
jafza free zone

JAFZA issues a wide range of business licenses, including:

  • Trading License: For businesses involved in trading activities.
  • Industrial License: For manufacturing and industrial operations.
  • Service License: For service-oriented businesses.
  • Logistics License: For logistics and supply chain management companies.
  • E-commerce License: For online trading and e-commerce businesses.

Business Activities in Jebel Ali Free Zone Dubai

JAFZA accommodates a diverse range of business activities, including:

  • Trading
  • Logistics (warehousing, distribution, transportation)
  • Manufacturing
  • IT Services
  • Consultancy
  • Professional Services
  • E-commerce
  • Financial Services
  • Healthcare
  • AEC Business
  • Marketing
  • Retail
  • Food and Agriculture
  • Petrochemicals
  • Automotive
  • Electronics
  • Accounting Services

How to Set Up a Business in Jebel Ali Free Zone [Steps]

Determine Your Business Activity

Identify the business activities you plan to conduct. Jebel Ali Free Zone is home to thousands of companies with various business activities.

Choose a Legal Structure

Decide between FZE, FZCO, Branch, or Offshore Company. This is very important because it determines the business license for your company.

Reserve Trade Name

Register your company’s trade name. Make sure it follows the regulations set by the Dubai Economic Department (DED).

Prepare Documentation

Compile the necessary documents for company registration.

Submit Application

Submit your business setup application and documents to JAFZA.

Obtain Approvals

Receive necessary approvals from JAFZA authorities.

Pay Fees

Complete the payment of the required fees for business license and registration to the free zone authority.

Sign Lease Agreement

Sign the lease agreement for your business premises. There are various options available in JAFZA such as bespoke officers, business centers, warehouses, etc.

Collect Business License

Obtain your business license and start operations in JAFZA Free Zone.

At Solutions FZCO, we provide comprehensive business setup services to help you establish your company in Jebel Ali Free Zone.

We have assisted more than 600 business setups in UAE, across different free zones. Our expert consultants guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup.

Contact us today to start your business journey in JAFZA Dubai.

jebel ali free zone

Frequently Asked Questions

The timeframe for setting up a company in JAFZA depends on your business activity, but with our help, you can have your company up and running within a few weeks.

Yes, you can own multiple businesses in JAFZA. There is no limit on the number of business activities that an individual or a company can partake in.

No, JAFZA allows 100% foreign ownership, so you don’t need a local Emirati partner to set up your company in the free zone.