UAE MAINLAND
JEBEL ALI FREE ZONE (JAFZA)
What is the significance of having a UAE mainland firm, and what does it represent?
The free zone is extremely well connected, with two international airports which are only 30 minutes apart and direct access to one of the busiest ports in the world.
Business Setup in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
UAE Mainland
The Jebel Ali free zone is extremely well connected, with two international airports which are only 30 minutes apart and direct access to one of the busiest ports in the world.
What is the significance of having a UAE mainland firm, and what does it represent?
The oldest free zone in the United Arab Emirates, Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) was founded in 1985. Almost 8,600 companies from over 100 nations call it their business home today, making business setup in Jebel Ali Free Zone a preferred choice for both regional and international investors. As one of the most well-known free trade zones in the United Arab Emirates, JAFZA provides both domestic and foreign businesses with a modern range of commercial services and facilities. In addition to Mainland and Free Zone businesses, JAFZA permits the formation of businesses on offshore and Special Purpose Companies (SPCs).
JAFZA is a crucial component of the integrated commercial hub for the DP World UAE Region. The Free Zone has evolved into a sophisticated business community and a powerful trade catalyst, offering exceptional growth opportunities and access to global markets. Customers can fully meet their operational and corporate requirements—including functionality, brand image, and workplace strategy—through JAFZA Customized Development solutions.
Pre-built warehouses are available in JAFZA Jebel Ali Free Zone for light manufacturing and premium storage needs. These purpose-built, thermally insulated warehouses come fully equipped with office spaces and are offered for rent. Unit sizes with office facilities typically range from 313 to 670 square meters.
Special Purpose Companies (SPCs) are established for specific objectives such as project management, asset holding, or owning shares in another company. They can be registered as branch offices, Free Zone Establishments (FZEs), or Free Zone Companies (FZCOs).
Located at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, JAFZA Jebel Ali Free Zone is an ideal base for companies aiming to expand internationally.
Business formation in JAFZA starts from AED 50,000, and the average timeframe to complete business setup in Jebel Ali Free Zone is approximately four weeks.
Advantages Of Business Setup in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
Types Of UAE Free Zone Trade Licence
On the UAE free zone, businesses can be divided into four main licences depending on their activity type: General Trading, Commercial,
Industrial and Service. Below is a general look at each licence type.
Legal Forms For Company Formation In UAE Free Zones
The legal forms available for company registration in UAE free zones have been modified to meet the needs of different business kinds and investment levels. Below is a summary of the main corporate organizations and applicable legal frameworks found in UAE’s free zones:


Why Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) For Your Company Formation?
Starting a business in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) offers a lot of advantages that make it an attractive location for investors. JAFZA have a simplified and optimized procedures, which guarantee less paperwork and speedy registration periods. JAFZA gives businesses a sizable global pool of educated and skilled people, ensuring they can locate the talent they require. JAFZA allows for 100% foreign ownership, providing companies complete control without the requirement for a local partner.
JAFZA is a network and ecosystem that supports 14 additional businesses in addition to logistics, e-commerce, and petrochemicals. JAFZA contributes to the growth of companies in important industry areas, generating a trade value of more than $168.6 billion by 2023.
Standard Required Documents to Start the
Business Setup Process
Let’s launch your business with success! Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready to streamline the setup process!
Your Guide To Setting Up A Free Zone Business In UAE
Your business setup checklist is ready. Let’s launch your business with success!
- 1Decide on your business venture.
- 2Choose the best UAE location for your company
- 3Choose the legal framework for your company.
- 4Give your business name.
- 5Apply for Initial Approval.
- 6Prepare Legal Documents.
- 7Lease Office Space.
- 8Obtain Licenses.
- 9Open a Corporate Bank Account.
- 10
Apply for the number of visas your company will require.
- 11
Register for VAT (if applicable)
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Business Setup in the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)



















