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The Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) was started in 1985. It is one of the biggest and most successful free zones in the UAE. It covers more than 57 square kilometers. JAFZA is next to Jebel Ali Port, the world’s largest man-made harbor, and Al Maktoum International Airport.

This makes it an important place for global trade and transport. More than 10,700 companies, including many Fortune 500 businesses, are working in JAFZA.

It gives great access to markets in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. JAFZA supports many types of businesses, such as manufacturing, trading, e-commerce, and logistics.

For investors, JAFZA company setup offers excellent opportunities. With its easy rules, modern buildings, and no tax system, JAFZA is a top choice for both new businesses and big global companies. This article explains why JAFZA is still one of the best places in the UAE to start and grow a business. For expert assistance, RIZ & MONA Consultancy can guide you every step of the way.

Business Setup Process in Jebel Ali Free Zone

Setting up a business in Jafza is streamlined, with modern systems and efficient procedures designed to cater to diverse business needs.

Select Business Activity and License Type:

Identify your business activity (e.g., trading, manufacturing, services) and choose the appropriate license.

Reserve Trade Name:

Reserve a unique and compliant trade name for your company through Jafza’s portal.

Submit Application:

Complete the application form and submit required documentation via the Jafza Business Center or online portal.

License Approval and Lease Agreements:

Receive approval for your license and finalize office or industrial space leasing agreements.

Open Corporate Bank Account:

Open a business account with any UAE-based bank to manage your operations.

Visa Application:

Apply for investor and employee visas as per your business requirements.

Additional Highlights

Online Services: Jafza offers a digital portal for easy application submission, payments, and tracking.
Support Services: Dedicated customer support teams assist with compliance, documentation, and account setup.
Flexibility: Entrepreneurs can choose from over 7,000 activities and customized facilities to match their operational needs.

Start your Jebel Ali Free Zone business hassle-free with Riz & Mona.

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Key Benefits for Business Setups in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza)

100% Foreign Ownership

Full control with complete profit and capital repatriation.

Tax Incentives

0% corporate & personal tax with full customs exemptions.

Global Recognition

Trusted by brands like Unilever, Nestlé, and Siemens.

Skilled Workforce Access

Easy visa allotments and nearby staff accommodation.

Diverse Industries

Supports trade, logistics, e-commerce & manufacturing.

Advanced Infrastructure

Over 1.3M sqm of flexible offices & storage facilities.

Strategic Location

Direct port & airport access to 3.5B+ consumers globally.

Simplified Setup

Fast approvals and flexible licensing for easy launch.

Required Documents for JAFZA Free Zone Business Setup

Document Type	Details
Shareholders & Managers	Passport copies, visa copies (if applicable), passport-sized photos
Proof of Address	Utility bills or tenancy contracts for all shareholders and managers
Application Forms	Completed and signed as per JAFZA requirements
Business Plan	Required for specific activities to assess feasibility
No-Objection Certificate	Mandatory for UAE residents if employed elsewhere

Types of Legal Entities permitted in JAFZA Free Zone

Free Zone Company (FZCO)

Structure: Two or more shareholders.
Best For: Joint ventures or multi-investor businesses.
Benefits: Enables larger investments with shared risk.

Free Zone Establishment

Structure: Single entity under Free Zone regulations.
Best For: Businesses needing liability protection and flexibility.
Benefits: Offers full control with corporate structure advantages.

Branch of a Foreign Company

Structure: Extension of an existing foreign company.
Best For: Expanding into Dubai without forming a new entity.
Benefits: Operates under parent brand with no capital needed.

Public Listed Company (PLC)

Structure: Shares are traded publicly on a stock exchange.
Best For: Firms aiming to raise capital through public listing.
Benefits: Boosts capital access, trust, and visibility.

How Much Does It Cost and How Long Does It Take to Start a Company in JAFZA?

Category	Details
Approval Timelines	2–5 working days (depending on business type and document completeness)
Setup Costs	From AED 15,000 (basic business setup packages)
Office/Warehouse Leasing	From AED 12,000 annually (for basic facilities)
Visa Costs	AED 3,500 – AED 7,000 per visa (based on type and duration)
Bank Account Deposit	Minimum deposit starting at AED 25,000

Types of Licenses in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza)

Trading License

Use: Import/export, distribution, wholesale.
Cost: From AED 10,000
Activities: Electronics, equipment, consumer goods.
Benefit: Global trade access via Jebel Ali Port.

Industrial License

Use: Manufacturing, assembly, production.
Cost: From AED 25,000
Activities: Packaging, processing, facilities.
Benefit: Ready industrial units + shipping route access.

Service License

Use: Professional services (IT, legal, consulting).
Cost: From AED 10,000
Activities: IT, consulting, legal, marketing.
Benefit: Business-friendly setup with modern facilities.

E-commerce License

Use: Online retail, digital marketplaces, e-commerce platforms.
Cost: From AED 12,000
Activities: Digital and online trading operations.
Benefit: Seamless digital-friendly setup for online business.

Logistics License

Use: Warehousing, freight forwarding, transportation.
Cost: Custom quotes (based on activity).
Activities: Supply chain, storage, cargo handling.
Benefit: Direct connectivity via Jebel Ali Port & Al Maktoum Airport.

Offshore License

Use: International trade, holding, asset management.
Cost: From AED 11,000
Activities: Offshore business without physical office.
Benefit: 100% ownership & tax-free operations.

Visa and Residency Options in Jafza

Jafza offers a simple process for obtaining various visas, facilitating business operations and residency:

Investor Visa:

Company owners and shareholders can obtain long-term residency through the Investor Visa , enhancing stability and operational continuity.

Family Sponsorship:

Investors and employees can sponsor their families for residency, promoting family stability.

Employee Visas:

Employees can be sponsored for work visas in the UAE, with the number of visas allocated based on office space size.

Residency and Work Permits:

Jafza’s efficient process ensures quick issuance of permits, supporting business continuity.

Office Space and Facilities in Jafza

Facility Type	Description	Key Benefit
Coworking Spaces	Shared modern spaces ideal for startups and small teams.	Encourages collaboration and networking.
Private Offices	Fully equipped, customizable office units for individual businesses.	Offers privacy and tailored business setups.
Warehousing	Scalable warehouses designed for logistics and manufacturing operations.	Supports diverse industrial and storage needs.
On-Site Residences	Residential facilities for employees within the zone.	Enhances convenience and work-life balance.

JAFZA Free Zone Business Setup Consultants

How Riz & Mona Consultancy Can Help?

Riz & Mona Consultancy is renowned as one of the top business setup consultants in Dubai, with over 15 years of experience facilitating a wide range of businesses throughout the UAE. Our deep connections with government officials and key authorities, combined with our extensive expertise in consultancy, streamline the process of establishing your business in Dubai. Additionally, we offer comprehensive financial, legal, and corporate services to support our clients throughout their business endeavors.

We are here to provide comprehensive support for your JAFZA Free Zone Company Setup, from preparing your documents to completing the process. Connect with us now to begin your journey with a FREE consultation!

FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)

What are the key sectors of the Jebel Ali Free Zone?

Key sectors include logistics, manufacturing, electronics, petrochemicals, e-commerce, automotive, and food & beverage.

What are the essential documents required for setting up a business in JAFZA?

Passport copies, application forms, business plan, NOC (if applicable), and proof of address for shareholders and managers.

How much is the cost of resident visas in JAFZA Free Zone?

Resident visa costs in JAFZA range from AED 3,500 to AED 7,500, depending on visa type and additional charges.

What is JAFZA company setup timeframe?

Company setup typically takes 2-5 working days after submitting all required documents.

What are the company liquidation requirements of JAFZA Free Zone?

Requirements include submitting a closure application, settling outstanding dues, canceling visas, and returning leased facilities.