Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority - Jafza

JAFZA offers numerous benefits including 100% foreign ownership, 0% corporate and personal income tax, 0% import/export duties, strategic location with port access, world-class infrastructure, and simplified business setup procedures. Companies in JAFZA also benefit from the free zone's proximity to Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport, providing excellent logistics connectivity to global markets.

JAFZA permits a wide range of business activities including trading, services, manufacturing, logistics, and e-commerce. The free zone is particularly favorable for import/export businesses, distribution centers, manufacturing facilities, and regional headquarters operations. Multiple activities can be conducted under a single license, depending on the license type selected.

The minimum capital requirement for setting up a company in JAFZA depends on the type of legal entity and license. For a Free Zone Establishment (FZE), the minimum share capital is typically AED 1,000,000, while for a Free Zone Company (FZCO), it's AED 500,000. However, these amounts do not need to be deposited fully, and you only need to demonstrate the availability of this capital. Our consultants can advise on the specific requirements for your business type.

The typical timeline for setting up a company in JAFZA is 2-3 weeks from the submission of complete documentation. This includes obtaining initial approval, license issuance, and company registration. However, the exact timeframe may vary depending on the complexity of your business activities, the type of license required, and the responsiveness in providing necessary documentation. Working with Evolve UAE can significantly streamline this process and minimize delays.

Yes, companies registered in JAFZA can conduct business with the local UAE market. However, when selling goods to the local market, these transactions are considered imports into the UAE mainland and are subject to a 5% customs duty. For service-based businesses, there are generally fewer restrictions. To operate directly on the mainland or open physical retail locations, you would need to either engage a local distributor or establish a mainland branch or company.

Visa allocation in JAFZA is typically based on the size of your physical premises. The general rule is approximately 1 visa per 9 square meters of office space, or 1 visa per 22 square meters for warehouse space. For example, a standard office unit of 100 square meters would typically qualify for around 11 visas. Additional visas may be available based on your business activities and requirements, subject to approval from JAFZA authorities. Our team can help you optimize your visa allocation based on your specific needs.

To start the company registration process in JAFZA, you'll typically need the following documents: passport copies of all shareholders and directors, passport-size photographs, a business plan or company profile, bank reference letters, and completed application forms. For corporate shareholders, additional documents such as certificate of incorporation, articles of association, and board resolution will be required. All non-English documents must be legally translated. Our consultants will provide a comprehensive checklist tailored to your specific business requirements.

JAFZA offers a variety of facility options including premium office spaces in JAFZA One towers, standard office units (from 20 to 100+ sqm), warehouses (250-5,000 sqm), light industrial units, showrooms, and land plots for custom development. Facilities come with different specifications to suit various business needs, from trading operations to manufacturing facilities. Virtual office options are also available for businesses that need a JAFZA address without physical space. Our team can help you identify the most suitable facility type based on your business activities and budget.