Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) Business Setup
Build, scale and trade globally from JAFZA
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11,000+ businesses 100+ Fortune Global 500 companies Generates over 23% of Dubai’s annual FDI inflows
- 11,000+ businesses
- 100+ Fortune Global 500 companies
- Generates over 23% of Dubai’s annual FDI inflows
Why Choose JAFZA?
Direct access to global markets through integrated sea, land and air connectivity
100% foreign ownership and full capital repatriation
0% personal income tax
On-site customs services enabling duty-free import and re-export within the free zone
A mature logistics ecosystem integrated with the world’s busiest ports and airports
JAFZA – An Overview
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is one of the largest free zones in the world and is considered the region’s most established trade and logistics hub. Since its launch in 1985 with just 19 companies, JAFZA has expanded massively and is home to over 11,000 companies, including more than a hundred Fortune Global 500 enterprises across trading, logistics, manufacturing and more, making it a cornerstone of Dubai’s international trade and investment landscape.
Strategically located beside Jebel Ali Port, which is the largest container port in the Middle East, JAFZA enables efficient movement of goods across Asia, Africa and Europe. Through Jebel Ali port and Dubai’s wider logistics network, businesses operating in JAFZA connect to over 150 global ports and access markets representing over 3.5 billion consumers worldwide.
A Jebel Ali Free Zone company setup allows businesses to benefit from 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax and full repatriation of profits within a well-defined regulatory framework that is supported largely by advanced digital processes.
Whether you plan to obtain a Jebel Ali Free Zone trade license or another business license type tailored to your operations, JAFZA provides clearly defined licensing options to fit a plethora of commercial purposes and growth ambitions.
Business licenses at JAFZA
JAFZA offers three license types to suit various business needs:
Trading License
Enables businesses to engage in import, export, and e-commerce activities.
Service License
Enables companies to provide consulting or support services within JAFZA and to clients outside the UAE, in line with approved activities.
Industrial License
For businesses engaging in manufacturing, product assembly, or packaging.
Logistics License
Permits businesses to carry out logistics-related activities such as warehousing, freight forwarding, distribution and supply-chain services.
Success Starts Here
An Integrated Trade and Logistics Platform Awaits You
Jebel Ali Free Zone Office Space Solutions
Find the perfect workspace to match your business needs with flexible and modern options.
Warehouses
Storage and distribution facilities supporting logistics, manufacturing and trade operations.
Showrooms
Dedicated spaces for product display, demonstrations and client management within the free zone.
Office Space
Fully serviced or custom office units designed for administrative, management and commercial functions.
Retail Outlets
Licensed premises for direct product sales to customers within designated areas.
Co-working Spaces
Flexible, shared workspaces ideal for startups, SMEs and project-based teams.
How it Works?
Set up your Jebel Ali Free Zone company in three simple steps.
Get a Quote
Receive a customized business setup plan based on your needs.
Register Your Business
Submit your application and complete the necessary registration steps.
Start Operating
Receive your business license and begin operations smoothly.
Process to Obtain Your Jebel Ali Free Zone License
We guide you through the following steps to set up your business in Jebel Ali Free Zone:
1. Choose Your Legal Structure
Decide on the legal entity type, such as Branch, FZE, or FZC, based on shareholders and liability structure.
2. Define Your Business Activity
Select from JAFZA Free Zone’s approved business categories that align with your operations.
3. Select an Office Solution
Choose from flexi-desks or private office spaces, based on your business requirements.
4. Secure Necessary Approvals
Some business activities require prior approvals; others allow direct licensing.
5. Submit Your License Application
Submit the necessary documents and apply for a business license based on your activity.
6. Obtain Your Business License
Upon approval, receive your license and workspace lease agreement from JAFZA Free Zone.
Note: The process may vary depending on your business activity and regulatory requirements.
Residence Visa Process for Jebel Ali Free Zone
Once your business license is issued, we handle the entire visa application process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Step 1: Establishment Card Application
We initiate and process your company’s establishment card, a mandatory requirement for visa applications.
Step 2: E-Visa Application
Our team handles the e-visa application, ensuring all necessary documents are submitted, including:
- Business license
- Establishment card
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photo
- Current visa or cancellation paper (if applicable)
Step 3: E-Visa Issuance and UAE Entry
Once the e-visa is issued, you may use it to enter the UAE from overseas. If you are inside the UAE at the time of application, JAFZA will issue an e-visa plus a change of status.
Step 4: Medical Test Assistance
We coordinate your medical test appointment and ensure you have all the required documents:
- Original passport
- E-visa copy
- Passport-size photos
- Change of status confirmation (if inside the UAE)
Step 5: Emirates ID Biometrics
We guide you through the biometric registration process for your Emirates ID. Required documents include:
- Original passport
- E-visa copy
- Passport-size photos
- Medical test results
- Emirates ID application
- Change of status confirmation (if applicable)
Step 6: Residence Visa & Emirates ID Issuance
Once your visa is approved, we will ensure you receive your Emirates ID, which serves as proof of residency in the UAE.
With Zone10X, you don’t have to worry about complex paperwork; we handle everything to help you set up a company in the UAE. Get in touch today, and let’s get your visa processed 10x more smoothly!
Documents Required for Jebel Ali Free Zone Company Formation
The following documents are typically required to set up a company at Jebel Ali Free Zone. Requirements may vary based on the business activity and free zone regulations.
For Individual Shareholders:
- Completed application form (typed and signed)
- One-page business plan
- Emirates ID (for UAE residents)
- Address proof of shareholder(s) and manager(s)
- Passport-sized photograph of shareholder(s) and manager(s)
- Passport-sized photograph of shareholder(s) and manager(s)
- KYC documents and sanctions form
For Corporate Shareholders:
- Completed application form (typed and signed)
- One-page business plan
- Trade license (for an existing company)
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Board resolution
- Valid passport copies of directors, secretary and proposed manager
- UAE residence visa copies, if applicable or written confirmation if not held
Upon submission of the required documents, the free zone will typically issue:
- Business License
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Shared-desk Agreement (if applicable)
- Share Certificate
- Certificate of Incorporation
Our Banking Partners
We work closely with the following banks for opening bank accounts for our clients









