Company Formation in JAFZA
Establishing Your Business with JAFZA’s Seamless Setup Process
Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a fresh-faced dreamer, JAFZA welcomes you with open arms. Come join the ranks of those who dare to dream big and redefine the future of business.
Success Starts Here
Established in 1985, Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) stands as the UAE’s oldest free zone, and the largest in Dubai today. With over 9,500 domestic and international enterprises calling it home, JAFZA is home to a diverse array of industries. From manufacturing plants and assembly units to logistics firms and factories, its dynamic ecosystem encourages innovation and growth, contributing to an annual trade value surpassing $100 billion.
Nestled in the heart of Dubai’s bustling economic landscape, JAFZA is more than just a free zone; it’s an ecosystem teeming with possibilities. Strategically located, JAFZA enjoys direct access to both Jebel Ali Sea Port (Port Jebel Ali) and Al Maktoum International Airport, also known as Dubai World Central. As the primary free zone under the umbrella of DP World, a global leader in logistics and port operations, JAFZA benefits from excellent connectivity and logistical support.
State-of-the-art infrastructure, bustling industrial complexes, and a vibrant community of entrepreneurs and visionaries from around the globe – it’s a melting pot of creativity and ambition, where big ideas are born and bold ventures take flight.
Facilities in JAFZA
Modern office spaces
JAFZA offers a range of office spaces equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and amenities to meet the diverse needs of businesses
Warehousing and storage
JAFZA provides spacious warehouses and storage facilities equipped with advanced infrastructure for efficient inventory management and logistics operations.
Free zone amenities
JAFZA offers a wide range of amenities within the free zone area, including food and beverage outlets, banking services, healthcare facilities, and recreational areas.
Industry-specific facilities
JAFZA caters to various industries with specialized facilities tailored to specific sector requirements, including manufacturing plants, technology parks, and research and development centers.
Training and development centers
JAFZA provides training and development centers offering workshops, seminars, and educational programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of the workforce within the free zone.
Business support services
JAFZA provides comprehensive business support services such as administrative assistance, company formation services, visa processing, and legal and financial consultancy services.
Customs services
JAFZA offers customs clearance and inspection services to facilitate smooth import and export operations for businesses operating within the free zone.
Transportation and logistics
JAFZA is well-connected with major transportation networks, including road, sea, and air routes, making it an ideal location for businesses involved in international trade and logistics.
Sustainable infrastructure
JAFZA is committed to sustainability and offers eco-friendly infrastructure solutions, including green buildings, renewable energy initiatives, and waste management systems.
Business networking opportunities
JAFZA organizes networking events, trade fairs, and exhibitions to facilitate business collaboration, partnerships, and market expansion opportunities for companies operating within the free zone.
Types of Companies in JAFZA
In JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone), companies can be categorized into various types based on their legal structure and activities. Some common company types in JAFZA include:
- Limited liability company
- Two to five shareholders.
- Single-shareholder company with limited liability
- Owned by an individual or a corporate entity
- Legal identity is separate from its owner.
- Operates under the parent company's name
- Subject to UAE laws and regulations.
- Formed for specific projects or transactions
- A temporary entity created for a particular purpose
- Companies engaged in manufacturing activities
- Benefit from certain incentives and exemptions provided by the UAE government.
- Companies involved in trading activities
- Import, export, distribute, and store goods within the free zone.
- Companies providing services, such as consulting, IT, marketing, or healthcare
- Allows them to offer their services within the free zone.
- Holding assets, international trading, or investment purposes
- Not permitted to conduct business within the UAE but can hold assets and investments globally.
Business Licences Types in JAFZA
Free Zone Company (FZCO):
- Limited liability company
- Two to five shareholders.
Free Zone Establishment (FZE):
- Single-shareholder company with limited liability
- Owned by an individual or a corporate entity
- Legal identity is separate from its owner.
Branch of a Foreign Company:
- Operates under the parent company’s name
- Subject to UAE laws and regulations.
Special Purpose Company (SPC):
- Formed for specific projects or transactions
- A temporary entity created for a particular purpose
National Industrial License (NIL):
- Companies engaged in manufacturing activities
- Benefit from certain incentives and exemptions provided by the UAE government.
Trading License:
- Companies involved in trading activities
- Import, export, distribute, and store goods within the free zone.
Service License:
- Companies providing services, such as consulting, IT, marketing, or healthcare
- Allows them to offer their services within the free zone.
Offshore Company:
- Holding assets, international trading, or investment purposes
- Not permitted to conduct business within the UAE but can hold assets and investments globally.
These are some of the common company types available in JAFZA, each with its own set of requirements, benefits, and limitations. Entrepreneurs should carefully consider their business objectives and consult legal advisors to determine the most suitable company type for their needs.
Licence Cost in JAFZA
The cost of obtaining a license in JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone) varies depending on the type of license and the specific business activities involved. Here’s a general overview of the license costs in JAFZA:
Trading License: The cost of a trading license in JAFZA typically ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 per year, depending on the specific trading activities and the size of the company.
General Trading License: The cost of a General Trading License may be higher than a standard Trading License, ranging from AED 20,000 to AED 35,000 per year, depending on the scope of trading activities permitted.
Industrial License: The cost of an Industrial License in JAFZA varies based on factors such as the size of the industrial facility, the nature of manufacturing activities, and the scale of production. It typically ranges from AED 20,000 to AED 40,000 per year.
Service License: The cost of a service license depends on the specific service activities included in the license. It generally ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 per year.
Logistics License: The cost of a logistics license in JAFZA varies depending on the scope of logistics services provided. It typically ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 30,000 per year.
National Industrial License (NIL): The cost of a National Industrial License may differ from other licenses and is subject to specific incentives and requirements provided by the UAE government. It typically ranges from AED 20,000 to AED 40,000 per year.
Offshore Company Registration: The cost of registering an offshore company in JAFZA varies depending on the specific services required and the level of support provided by the registration agent. It typically ranges from AED 10,000 to AED 20,000 for the first year.
Offshore Service License: The cost of obtaining an Offshore Service License in JAFZA varies based on the nature of services provided and the jurisdictional requirements. It typically ranges from AED 10,000 to AED 20,000 per year.
These are approximate costs and may vary based on factors such as company size, business activities, additional services required, and any applicable government fees or taxes. It’s advisable to consult with JAFZA authorities or a business setup consultant to get accurate cost estimates based on specific business requirements.
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Company Formation in JAFZA - Step by Step
Starting a business in JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone) involves several steps, from company registration to obtaining necessary licenses and permits. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to start a business in JAFZA:
Frequently Asked Question
JAFZA is open to both local and foreign investors. Companies from various industries can establish their presence in the free zone.
JAFZA allows the formation of various types of companies, including Free Zone Establishments (FZE), Free Zone Companies (FZCO), and branches of existing companies.
Benefits include 100% foreign ownership, no import or export duties, full repatriation of profits and capital, and a strategic location with excellent infrastructure.
Yes, having a physical office within the free zone is generally a requirement for company formation. JAFZA offers a range of office spaces to cater to different business needs.
The timeline varies, but on average, the process takes a few weeks. The exact duration depends on the completeness of the documentation and the type of business activity.
Yes, after obtaining the necessary licenses and approvals, you can open a corporate bank account in the UAE for your JAFZA-registered company.
