JAFZA - Jebel Ali Free Zone
Complete guide to registering your company in JAFZA. Ideal for logistics, manufacturing, and international trade businesses with access to Jebel Ali Port.
About JAFZA
JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone) is the UAE's largest and oldest free zone, established in 1985. Located adjacent to the world's largest man-made harbor - Jebel Ali Port - JAFZA hosts over 8,700 companies from 140+ countries. It offers seamless connectivity to global markets through integrated sea, air, and land logistics infrastructure.
License Types Available
Trading License
Import, export, storage, and distribution of goods. Ideal for trading companies dealing in commodities and finished products.
Industrial License
Manufacturing, processing, and assembly operations. Access to industrial plots and warehouses.
Service License
Consultancy, logistics, IT services, and other professional services supporting trade and industry.
National Industrial License
For UAE nationals engaged in industrial activities with additional benefits and incentives.
Company Structures
FZE
Free Zone Establishment - Single shareholder entity
FZCO
Free Zone Company - Two or more shareholders (max 50)
Branch
Branch of foreign or UAE company
Registration Requirements
- Passport Copies: Color copies for all shareholders, directors, and managers
- Board Resolution: If parent company is establishing a branch or subsidiary
- Business Plan: Detailed plan including business activities, target markets, and financial projections
- Parent Company Documents: Certificate of incorporation, MOA/AOA (for branch/subsidiary)
- Bank Reference Letter: Original reference letter from shareholder's bank
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Initial Consultation & Name Reservation
Discuss business requirements with JAFZA, select company structure, and reserve trade name
Timeline: 1-3 days
Application Submission
Submit application form with all required documents through JAFZA Customer Service
Timeline: 1-2 days
Application Review
JAFZA reviews application and conducts background verification
Timeline: 5-7 business days
Lease Agreement
Sign lease agreement for office, warehouse, or industrial land as per business requirements
Timeline: 2-3 days
Payment & License Issuance
Complete fee payment and receive trade license and establishment card
Timeline: 1-2 days
Post-Setup Services
Apply for employee visas, open corporate bank account, and set up facilities
Timeline: 2-4 weeks
JAFZA Fee Structure
| Description | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade License Fee (Annual) | 20,000 - 30,000 |
| Registration Fee (One-time) | 10,000 |
| Share Capital (FZE/FZCO) | Varies by activity |
| Office Space (per sqm/year) | 700 - 1,200 |
| Warehouse (per sqm/year) | 300 - 500 |
| Employment Visa (per visa) | 3,000 - 4,500 |
* Fees are subject to change. Contact us for current pricing.
Annual Compliance Requirements
License Renewal
Annual renewal of trade license 30 days before expiry. Submit audited financials if required.
Lease Renewal
Maintain valid lease agreement for office, warehouse, or land. Review terms annually.
Audited Financial Statements
Submit audited accounts annually. Required for all JAFZA companies regardless of turnover.
Corporate Tax Registration & Filing
Register for UAE Corporate Tax. File annual returns. QFZP may qualify for 0% on qualifying income.
VAT Compliance
Register if taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000. File periodic VAT returns to FTA.
Economic Substance Requirements
Annual ESR notification and report for relevant activities (distribution, holding, etc.).
Tax Implications
QFZP Status Benefits
JAFZA companies engaged in qualifying activities may benefit from:
- 0% Corporate Tax on qualifying income from free zone activities
- Customs duty exemption on imports within free zone
- No duty on re-exports to international markets
Related Free Zones
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