JAFZA stands for Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority, or simply Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), being one of Dubai’s oldest and largest free zones. It is strategically located next to Jebel Ali Port and close to Al Maktoum International Airport. Established under Decree No. (1) of 1985, by the Government of Dubai, it serves as a global hub for trading, logistics, manufacturing, and corporate operations.
JAFZA supports import/export businesses, industrial manufacturers, logistics operators, and multinational corporations looking for direct access to international markets. The free zones work under the JAFZA Authority, which manages company registration, licensing, facility allocation, and regulatory compliance.
Companies registered in JAFZA benefit from 100% foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, and simplified customs procedures. Unlike mainland structures, JAFZA companies operate within the free zone framework while maintaining strong connectivity to global supply chains.
Over time, JAFZA has become an attractive and preferred destination for international investors due to zero import duties, 0% income tax and minimal corporate tax, world-class infrastructure, regulatory strength, and logistics advantages. Individuals choose JAFZA for business setups for the unlimited benefits it offers.
Single shareholder limited liability company, suitable for startups and SMEs operating independently.
Multi-shareholders can have limited liability companies, which is an ideal option for joint ventures and larger trading or industrial enterprises.
Any business entity can get an extension of an existing company, either foreign or UAE-based. It allows parent companies to establish JAFZA operations without creating a new legal entity.
Holding companies are benefited in terms of a tax flexible environment to manage subsidiaries, investments, and assets under centralized ownership.
Allows companies to import, export, distribute, and trade goods internationally through JAFZA. It is ideal for businesses involved in logistics, wholesale, and commercial trading operations.
This license is issued to companies engaged in light to heavy manufacturing and production activities within JAFZA. It supports factories, assembly units, and industrial processing facilities.
This license is designed for consultancy and corporate service providers offering non-physical services such as management, IT, logistics support, and advisory operations. It suits businesses focused on expertise-based activities rather than goods trading.
Holding company license enables companies to own and manage subsidiaries, assets, and corporate investments under one structure. It is commonly used by corporate groups seeking centralized control of regional or international operations.
Each license fulfills specific operational and regulatory requirements set by the JAFZA Authority.
In Jebel Ali Free Zone Areas, the following activities are fully supported.
However, activity approvals depend on licensing category and facility type.
JAFZA Authority governs all company formation and operational matters within the free zone. It oversees:
Businesses must operate according to UAE free zone regulations and JAFZA operational guidelines.
Identify whether your operations involve trading, manufacturing, logistics, or professional services.
Choose FZE, FZCO, Branch, or Holding Company based on ownership model and corporate structure.
Align your activity with the correct commercial, industrial, service, or holding license.
Office, warehouse, or industrial plot selection directly impacts visa eligibility and operational permissions.
JAFZA provides flexible facilities based on business size and activity:
Facility selection influences licensing approval and employee visa quotas while offering direct access to port logistics infrastructure.
Typical expenses include:
Most JAFZA company formations are completed within 2–4 weeks, subject to document readiness and authority approvals. Businesses must also comply with UAE corporate tax regulations and VAT registration thresholds, along with annual license renewals.
CorpLex helps you build your company in JAFZA within a minimum time and with a few requirements. Common documentation includes:
Additional approvals may apply for industrial or regulated activities.
Setting up a JAFZA company involves legal procedures, facility coordination, and regulatory approvals. CorpLex simplifies the entire process through structured guidance and end-to-end support.
We provide:
CorpLex helps startups, SMEs, and international investors establish compliant operations while preparing for long-term growth in Dubai. Contact us today and launch your dream business in JAFZA today.
You can establish FZE, FZCO, Branch Office, or Holding Company structures depending on ownership and business objectives.
Yes, JAFZA permits full foreign ownership across all supported entity types.
Yes, JAFZA offers Holding Company licenses for corporate group management and asset ownership.
Most JAFZA company formations take between 2 and 4 weeks, depending on approvals and documentation.
Facility selection depends on license type and activity. Offices, warehouses, and industrial units determine visa eligibility and operational permissions.
Direct mainland trading requires a UAE distributor or mainland branch, depending on activity and licensing.
Yes, JAFZA requires an approved facility (flexi-desk, office, or warehouse) as part of licensing.
