JAFZA logo
DubaiFree ZoneVAT Designated12 Activities

The Global Hub for Trade, Logistics, and Industry

Leverage direct access to Jebel Ali Port, a top-10 world port, within a powerhouse ecosystem of 9,500+ companies. Secure 100% ownership and 0% corporate tax on qualifying income.

100% Foreign Ownership0% Corporate TaxDirect Jebel Ali Port AccessVAT Designated Zone
JAFZA — Business Setup

Established

1985

Companies Registered

9,500+

Fortune 500 Companies

100+

Business Activities

7,000+

Part of

DP World

Welcome to Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA): The Epicenter of Global Trade

Established in 1985, JAFZA is one of the world's largest and most successful free zones, operating at the heart of global trade. Strategically located alongside the world-class Jebel Ali Port, it offers an unparalleled, integrated business hub designed to attract foreign investment and drive international commerce.

Jurisdiction Key Facts

Legal Structures
FZE, FZCO, Branch of Foreign/Local Company
License Types
Trading, Industrial, Service, E-commerce, Holding
Tax Benefits
0% Corporate Tax (Qualifying), 0% Personal Tax
Ownership
100% Foreign Ownership Permitted
Annual Audit
Mandatory for all companies
Visa Eligibility
Yes, quota based on facility size

The Unrivaled JAFZA Advantage

Discover the strategic benefits that make JAFZA the definitive choice for businesses aiming for regional dominance and global growth.

Unmatched Multimodal Connectivity

Unmatched Multimodal Connectivity

Leverage a world-class logistics hub seamlessly connecting Jebel Ali Port (sea), Al Maktoum Airport (air), and Etihad Rail (land) for unparalleled supply chain efficiency.

0% Corporate Tax & Full Repatriation

0% Corporate Tax & Full Repatriation

Maximize profitability with 0% corporate tax on qualifying income and repatriate 100% of your capital and profits to your home country without restriction.

Powerful Business Ecosystem

Powerful Business Ecosystem

Join a dynamic network of over 9,500 companies, including 100+ Fortune 500 corporations, creating immense opportunities for networking, collaboration, and growth.

100% Foreign Ownership

100% Foreign Ownership

Take complete control of your enterprise. Operate with 100% foreign ownership, eliminating the need for a local Emirati partner or sponsor.

On-Site Customs & VAT Designated Zone

On-Site Customs & VAT Designated Zone

Expedite trade with dedicated on-site customs facilities and benefit from simplified VAT treatment for goods traded within this official 'Designated Zone'.

Comprehensive Industrial Facilities

Comprehensive Industrial Facilities

From executive offices and warehouses to light industrial units and development-ready land plots, find the perfect facility to support your operational needs.

JAFZA Company Setup Costs

Invest in a world-class platform. Our pricing reflects the unparalleled infrastructure and strategic advantages of operating in JAFZA.

Most Popular
1-Visa Executive Package

1-Visa Executive Package

AED35,000

Billed annually

  • 1 Resident Visa(s)
  • Flexi-Desk Facility Lease
  • Trade or Service License
  • Flexi-Desk Facility Lease
  • Establishment Card Fee

AED Pricing

JAFZA Company Setup Costs

Invest in a world-class platform. Our pricing reflects the unparalleled infrastructure and strategic advantages of operating in JAFZA.

Total Estimated Cost (Year 1)

AED0

Find the Right License for Your Business

JAFZA offers a range of license types tailored to specific business activities, ensuring your company is structured for success.

Commercial / Trading License
standard

Commercial / Trading License

Available
Industrial / Manufacturing License
standard

Industrial / Manufacturing License

Available
General Trading License
standard

General Trading License

Available
Professional / Service License
standard

Professional / Service License

Available
E-Commerce License
standard

E-Commerce License

Available

Popular Business Activities

JAFZA supports over 7,000 activities across key sectors. Here are some of the most common choices.

Filter by Category

Activity NameCategory
Freight ForwardingLogistics / Freight
Warehousing and StorageLogistics / Freight
Supply Chain ManagementLogistics / Freight
General TradingCommercial / Trading
Motor Vehicles and Auto Spare Parts TradingCommercial / Trading
Foodstuff and Beverages TradingCommercial / Trading
Equipment, engines and machineryIndustrial / Manufacturing
Food industriesIndustrial / Manufacturing
Pharmaceuticals ManufacturingIndustrial / Manufacturing
Technology Research & DevelopmentTechnology / Innovation
IT InfrastructureTechnology / Innovation
Cyber Security ConsultancyTechnology / Innovation

Your Streamlined Path to a JAFZA Company

Launch your business efficiently with our clear and structured setup process, fully supported by digital integration.

Initial Approval
5 Days Total Max

Phase 1 Focus

Initial Approval

11 business day

Consultation & Document Submission

We help you define your business activities and legal structure. Submit required shareholder documents and your business plan (if applicable).

22 business days

Initial Approval & Name Reservation

JAFZA reviews your application and provides initial approval, while we secure your desired company trade name.

32 business days

Company Registration & License Issuance

Sign the formation documents (remotely supported) and make the necessary payments. JAFZA will then issue your official trade license.

45-7 business days

Immigration & Visa Processing

Once the license is issued, we apply for your company's Establishment Card, followed by e-channel registration and processing of investor or employee visas.

Is JAFZA the Right Choice for Your Business?

The Global Logistics Director (MNC)

JAFZA is the ultimate hub for regional distribution. The seamless integration of Jebel Ali Port, Al Maktoum Airport, and Etihad Rail creates an unparalleled logistics triangle, eliminating supply chain bottlenecks.

Primary Benefit

Unmatched sea-air-land connectivity with expedited on-site customs.

The Industrial Manufacturing SME Owner

Expand your production closer to emerging markets with access to a complete range of industrial facilities, from light industrial units to large land plots, within a robust ecosystem of over 9,500 companies.

Primary Benefit

Purpose-built industrial ecosystem with 100% foreign ownership.

The High-Volume E-commerce Operator

Leverage JAFZA's official 'Designated Zone' status for significant VAT advantages on physical goods. Combine this with world-class warehousing for a highly efficient global fulfillment operation.

Primary Benefit

Tax-efficient operations via Designated Zone status for rapid global fulfillment.

The International General Trader

Maximize margins with a 0% corporate tax regime, no currency restrictions, and full profit repatriation. The comprehensive General Trading License and simplified customs are ideal for high-volume trade.

Primary Benefit

Maximum profitability through a zero-tax environment and unrestricted cash flow.

JAFZA vs. Other Leading Zones

See how JAFZA's unique focus on logistics and heavy industry sets it apart.

Feature HighlightJAFZAKEZAD (Abu Dhabi)DAFZA (Dubai)
Primary FocusSea-Land-Air Logistics, Heavy Industry, TradingIndustrial, Manufacturing, LogisticsAir Freight, Luxury Goods, Services
Port ConnectivityDirect Integration (Jebel Ali Port)Direct Integration (Khalifa Port)Indirect (via road)
Ecosystem ScaleVery Large (9,500+ companies)Large & GrowingMedium (Specialized)
Best ForBusinesses reliant on sea freight & multimodal transportLarge-scale industrial projects & Abu Dhabi accessTime-sensitive air cargo & professional services

This is a general comparison for informational purposes. The best choice depends on your specific business needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

JAFZA is a strategic investment in world-class infrastructure. The cost provides direct access to Jebel Ali Port and a 9,500-company ecosystem, which reduces operational costs and delivers a higher ROI for businesses moving physical goods.

Ready to Join the Global Leaders in Trade?

Position your business at the heart of global commerce. Get a personalized quote and expert guidance on starting your JAFZA company today.

  • Expert advice on your license & facility
  • Fast and efficient processing
  • Complete transparency on costs