Set Up Your Company in Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA)

Set up your business in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) and position yourself at the heart of Dubai’s thriving trade and logistics hub.

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Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority Company Formation

Jebel Ali Free Zone is the oldest and most renowned free zone in Dubai, built adjacent to the region’s largest man-made port. Home to more than 7,000 companies, this respected hub is a magnet for firms seeking seamless entry into the UAE’s trade network.

Located just minutes from Dubai International Airport—one of the world’s busiest cargo airports—JAFZA facilitates the movement of over 2.7 million metric tonnes of goods each year. Its proximity to Al Maktoum Airport, which is fast becoming the largest cargo airport globally, further boosts its appeal as a centre for logistics and rapid distribution.

The zone’s logistics platform is second to none; JAFZA has established a single, bonded customs area linking Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum Airport, which streamlines the entire import and export process for businesses.

JAFZA continues to thrive as one of Dubai’s largest business centres, supporting over 7,100 companies from 120 countries. With instant access to the world’s seventh largest port, direct routes via air, sea, and land, and proximity to leading airports, JAFZA provides unrivalled trans-shipment speeds and market entry to over two billion customers. This is why so many companies call JAFZA home.

Advantages of Setting Up Your Business in Jebel Ali Free Zone

Customs Compliant

JAFZA offers on-site customs services, making it straightforward for businesses to manage customs clearance and efficiently re-export goods across the MENA region.

The Return of Profits

Companies in JAFZA are permitted to transfer all profits—tax-free and with no restrictions—back to their home country. This ensures complete financial control and maximises how businesses can allocate their earnings.

Infrastructure

JAFZA provides world-class infrastructure, including modern roads, warehouses, and essential facilities. These resources make daily operations easy and support every stage of business growth.

Benefits of Customs

Businesses benefit from complete exemption on taxes and import duties for goods entering JAFZA, which reduces operational expenses. This key advantage allows firms to stay competitive and keep their supply chains agile.

Business Hub

JAFZA is a thriving hub for global companies, giving direct access to partners, suppliers, and customers from all over the world. This dynamic ecosystem encourages business growth and drives new opportunities for collaboration.

Ease of Setup

Setting up a company in JAFZA is efficient and stress-free thanks to transparent regulations, minimal bureaucracy, and tailored support. Fast processes and expert assistance mean firms can get started in a matter of days.

Cost of Starting a Business in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)

Starting a company in JAFZA offers a premium business environment with competitive pricing that fits a variety of budgets. At Prime Setup UAE, we provide transparent packages that cover licensing, office space, visas, and ongoing support, ensuring no surprises and smooth onboarding.

Typical pricing from leading UAE business consultants includes:

Free Zone Establishment (FZE) Licence: Starting from AED 15,000
Free Zone Company (FZCO) Licence: From AED 25,000
Company Registration Fee: AED 5,000 (non-refundable)
Office Space Lease: Beginning at AED 25,000 per year based on size and location
Visas: Approximately AED 3,000 per visa for employees and owners
Additional Business Activities: AED 500 per activity
Establishment Card and Other Govt Fees: Included in package

Prime Setup UAE’s expert team streamlines the process, offering customised payment plans and dedicated account management — making your JAFZA business setup seamless, fast, and cost-effective.

Steps in Setting Up Your Business in Jebel Ali Freezone

Setting up a business in Jebel Ali Free Zone involves a series of well-defined steps. Prime Setup UAE will guide you through each stage to ensure your company is established efficiently, saving you time and money.

Choose Business Activities

: Pick up to 3 business activities from JAFZA’s approved list to suit your trade licence.

Choose Company Name

: Prepare 3 unique name options following naming rules to avoid delays.

Select Company Type and Licence

: Decide on FZE, FZCO, branch, or offshore setup with licence type matching your business.

Prepare Documents

: Collect passports, business plan, MOA/AOA, lease agreement, and other required paperwork.

Sign Lease Agreement

: Finalise your office, warehouse, or flexi-desk lease required for registration.

Submit Application & Pay Fees

: Submit documents to JAFZA and pay registration, licence, and lease fees.

Receive Licence & Incorporation Certificate

: Get official business licence, certificate, and related documents to begin operations.

Apply for Establishment Card & Visas

: Process establishment card for visa quota; apply for visas for owners and employees.

Open Bank Account

: Use company documents to open a business bank account in the UAE.

Maintain Compliance

: Renew licence annually, update records, and submit required reports to authorities.

Types of Companies in JAFZA

JAFZA hosts a diverse community of over 9,000 companies from Fortune 500 firms to SMEs. These businesses represent a wide array of industries that thrive thanks to JAFZA’s strategic location, infrastructure, and business-friendly policies.

Types of Licenses Offered in JAFZA

JAFZA provides several business licence options designed to suit a wide range of activities and company sizes.

Trading Licence

Allows import, export, distribution, and storage of goods.

General Trading Licence

Covers a wide variety of products for broader trade activities.

Industrial Licence

Required for manufacturing, processing, and packaging operations.

Service Licence

Grants permission for consultancy, professional services, and specialised support.

Logistics Licence

For transportation, warehousing, and supply chain management.

E-Commerce Licence

Enables online businesses with buying, selling, and support functions.

Documents Required to Setup a Company in Jebel Ali

To set up a company in JAFZA, you’ll need to submit key identification and business documents. Having these ready from the start ensures a smooth registration, faster approvals, and full compliance with free zone requirements.

Completed company registration application form

Valid passport copy for each shareholder and director

Recent utility bill for proof of address

Passport-size photo for each shareholder and director

Proposed company name options

Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)

Power of Attorney for authorised representatives

No Objection Certificate (NOC) from existing UAE sponsor (if applicable)

Business plan (for industrial or project facilities)

Lease agreement for office, warehouse, or flexi-desk

Shareholder/director resolutions and appointment letters

Parent company documents (for branch formation)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to set up a company in JAFZA?

The setup process usually takes between 7 to 14 business days after submission of complete documents and lease agreements. This timeline depends on business activities, licence type, and facility choice. Missing paperwork or additional regulatory approvals can extend this period.

2. What types of companies can I establish in JAFZA?

You can form a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) with a single shareholder, a Free Zone Company (FZCO) with multiple shareholders, a branch of an existing company, or an offshore company. Each has specific operational scopes and regulatory frameworks tailored to different business needs.

3. Can I own 100% of my company in JAFZA?

Yes, foreign investors enjoy 100% ownership of their companies in JAFZA with no local sponsorship required. This policy supports complete control of capital and business decisions by the investor.

4. What documents are needed for JAFZA registration?

Essential documents include passport copies of shareholders and directors, proof of address, a detailed business plan, Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA), lease agreement of office or warehouse space, power of attorney (if applicable), and no objection certificates where relevant.

5. Are there restrictions on business activities?

Each licence permits a defined set of activities. Some specialised activities may require additional approvals from regulatory bodies. Selecting the appropriate activities before registration avoids complications in licensing, banking, and visa issuance.

6. Can I change my business activity after registration?

Yes, JAFZA facilitates activity modifications or additions through an amendment procedure. This flexibility supports business growth and diversification without the need to form a new company.

7. What licenses does JAFZA offer?

JAFZA licenses include Service, Industrial, Trading, Logistics, E-Commerce, and National Industrial licences. You can select a licence matching your business model and expected operations in the free zone.