Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is the Middle East’s leading business hub, known for its commitment to fostering long-term customer relationships and forging strategic alliances with global investors. By offering world-class infrastructure and quality-driven, value-added services, JAFZA empowers businesses to capitalize on the vast opportunities in the region in a highly systematic and efficient manner.
The Premier Business Hub of the Middle East
Since its inception in 1985, JAFZA has become one of the region’s most recognized and respected brands. It symbolizes excellence, innovation, and the power of partnership. As the world’s first free zone to achieve ISO certification in 1996, JAFZA continues to set industry standards for quality and operational excellence.
JAFZA's Vision and Role in Dubai's Growth
JAFZA is committed to driving Dubai’s economic development, offering limitless possibilities for industrial growth. As the largest free zone in the MENA region, JAFZA provides an unparalleled environment for businesses to thrive, attracting some of the world’s most prestigious companies across various industries. Over the years, JAFZA has consistently attracted leading global enterprises thanks to its unique, value-added benefits business setup in Dubai. By offering a robust platform for business expansion, JAFZA continues to be a beacon of opportunity and growth in the region.
Business Setup in JAFZA: A Strategic Hub for Global Trade
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is strategically positioned as one of the world’s most efficient sea-air logistics hubs. Recent developments at JAFZA and the surrounding region have been designed to enhance operational efficiency, including adding a six-lane highway that ensures goods remain custom-bound, significantly reducing processing times. Allows seamless transportation from the port to cargo aircraft in just 20 minutes.
Jafza Prime Location
JAFZA is the world’s only free zone between one of the largest airports and a major seaport. It is flanked by Jebel Ali Port, the 7th largest container port globally, on one side and Al Maktoum International Airport, one of the world’s largest cargo airports, on the other. This prime location provides businesses unparalleled access to sea and air routes, making it a critical hub for international trade.
Global Connectivity
Located at Jebel Ali Port, the largest artificial harbor in the world, JAFZA connects to ports worldwide, offering businesses direct access to global markets. The proximity to Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum Cargo Airport further enhances JAFZA’s role as a central logistics and distribution hub, enabling businesses to reach markets across the globe easily.
A-Pillar of Economic Growth
Over the years, JAFZA has been a key driver of Dubai’s and the UAE’s remarkable economic growth. Its ability to attract top-tier businesses worldwide is a testament to its unique value propositions and competitive advantages. By offering a world-class business environment, JAFZA continues to draw the “crème de la crème” from various industries, contributing significantly to the region’s economic development.
JAFZA’s strategic location, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and efficient logistics solutions make it an ideal choice for businesses looking to establish a strong presence in the Middle East and beyond. Whether you want to expand your operations or tap into new markets, JAFZA offers the perfect platform to achieve your business goals.
Advantages of Setting Up a Business in Jebel Ali Free Zone
- Prime Operational Facilities
- Free Zone Business License: Secure a business license that provides access to JAFZA’s extensive network of opportunities.
- Efficient Visa Processing: Benefit from streamlined visa processing services, making it easier to manage your workforce.
- Comprehensive Business Premises: Choose from various business premises, including offices, warehouses, retail units, and staff accommodation, tailored to your company’s diverse requirements.
- Strategic Trading Hub
- Vast Trading Community: Join thousands of traders operating under one roof, creating a dynamic and interconnected business environment.
- Modern Storage Solutions: Take advantage of a state-of-the-art environment that ensures the safe storage of goods, with facilities conveniently located near your retail outlet.
- Convenient Sales Opportunities
- Proximity to Key Markets: Enjoy the convenience of being adjacent to the Jebel Ali Free Zone, eliminating the need for gate entry and simplifying access to your business.
- Sell to the Local Market: Leverage the benefits of a free zone license while allowing you to sell directly to the UAE public, expanding your customer base.
Formation Types in Jebel Ali Free Zone
The structure of a company in the Jebel Ali Free Zone is determined by the number of shareholders involved, with various formation types available.
Multiple Shareholders
Single Shareholder
Free Zone Establishment (FZE): A FZE can be registered by a single shareholder, an individual, or a company. An FZE is a Limited Liability Company (LLC) within the Free Zone, where the company’s liabilities are limited to its paid-up capital. The FZE has a distinct legal personality, separate from its shareholder, and possesses a natural person’s capacity, rights, and privileges.
Existing Established Entities
Branch Office: A company outside the Jebel Ali Free Zone can register a branch, which is considered an extension of its parent company and operates under the same name.
Free Zone Company (FZCo): A FZCo can be established with two to 50 shareholders. These shareholders can be individuals (two to 50 people), entities (two to 50 companies), or a combination. An FZCo operates as a Limited Liability Partnership within the Free Zone, where the company’s liabilities are limited to the amount of paid-up capital.
Public Listed Company (PLC): Similarly, a Public Listed Company can also be formed with two to 50 shareholders, including individuals, companies, or a combination of both. A PLC functions as a Limited Liability Partnership within the Free Zone, with liabilities also limited to the paid-up capital
JAFZA Company Formation: License Types
When setting up a business in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), you can choose from a variety of license types based on the nature of your activities:
Trading License
A Trading License allows businesses to engage in trading activities, including importing, exporting, and distributing goods.
Service License
A Service License permits businesses to offer various services within the Free Zone, covering professional services, consultancy, and other non-manufacturing activities.
National Industrial License
The National Industrial License is specifically designed for manufacturing companies where at least 51% of the ownership is held by nationals of AGCC (Arab Gulf Cooperation Council) countries. This license supports industries with significant local ownership.
Offshore Registration
Offshore Registration allows for limited liability offshore companies within JAFZA, which is ideal for businesses without a physical presence in UAE seeking tax-efficient solutions.
Industrial License
An Industrial License is required for companies involved in manufacturing or industrial activities. This license allows them to produce, assemble, or package products.
E-Commerce License
The E-Commerce License permits businesses to trade online, including buying and selling goods and services via electronic platforms and networks.
Innovation License
An Innovation License is ideal for businesses that develop new and innovative products or services, fostering creativity and technological advancement.
Ready to set up your offshore company in the JAFZA Free Zone? Contact us today to begin the process.
Need Assistance with Company Formation in JAFZA?
Starting the business license application process in the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) can be straightforward with the right support. Our professional specialists are here to help you every step of the way. We can prepare, review, attest, and submit all necessary legal documentation to ensure your business setup process is smooth and efficient.
At Jafza UAE Free Zones, we cover every aspect of doing business in the UAE, including the Jebel Ali Free Zone and other Free Trade Zones. Our comprehensive services have assisted over 1,000 companies in establishing their operations in the UAE and the broader Middle East region.
We offer comprehensive business setup and bank account opening services in Dubai. We handle all necessary complexities, allowing you to concentrate on business growth.
Company Formation in JAFZA: Required Documents and Legal Structures
To establish a company in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), the following documents are required:
Required Documents for Company Setup
- Application & EHS Application Form (Typed): Ensure all forms are typed and accurately completed.
- Passport Copies: Provide copies of passports for each individual involved, including shareholders and managers.
- Project Summary: A brief overview of your business project, outlining its scope and objectives.
- Letter from Parent Company: If forming a branch company, a letter from the parent company authorizing the branch setup in JAFZA.
- CV of Shareholders: Submit the resumes of all shareholders to provide background information.
- NOC from Sponsor: UAE residents must have a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current sponsor.
- Application Fee: The application fee is a one-time, non-refundable fee of AED 500.
Legal Structures of JAFZA Companies
Free Zone Establishment (FZE) and Free Zone Company (FZCO):FZE: This can be established by a single shareholder and offers the benefit of being set up as a separate legal entity within JAFZA.
FZCO: This requires 2 to 5 shareholders and functions as a separate legal entity, providing flexibility and protection under the free zone’s regulations.
Special Status Non-Resident Offshore Companies
JAFZA allows individuals or corporate entities to form offshore companies. These companies operate as non-resident organizations with a corporate legal entity governed by the Jebel Ali Free Zone Offshore Companies Regulations 2003.
Frequently Asked Questions
Setting up a Jebel Ali Free Zone business offers numerous benefits, including 100% foreign ownership, profit repatriation, 0% personal and corporate income tax, and no customs duties, along with various business incentives and support services.
Setting up a business in the Jebel Ali Free Zone requires specific requirements, depending on the business type, such as registration with the Free Zone Authority and a valid trade license.
Setting up a business in the Jebel Ali Free Zone does not require residency, but companies must have a local UAE sponsor responsible for their activities in the UAE.
Ajman Offshore Formation
Our team provides expert business setup services in Ajman Mainland, guiding through licenses, regulatory requirements, and paperwork, ensuring efficient compliance, and allowing focus on business growth.
JAFZA Free Zone Offshore
We provide expert services for forming an offshore company in the JAFZA Free Zone, ensuring smooth registration, documentation, compliance, and set up, benefiting from the tax and regulatory environment.
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