Company Formation in JAFZA Free Zone

Get expert guidance at IMC on JAFZA company formation from start to finish. Contact us today to simplify your registration process!
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JAFZA Free Zone in Dubai

Advantages of Company Formation in JAFZA

100% or complete foreign ownership.

No import or re-export duties.

No restriction at all on capital repatriation.

No personal income tax.

Zero currency restrictions.

Availability of ready warehouses and factories.

No limitations or restrictions on global talent or employees.

Availability of onsite customs.

Which are the Licenses Available for Company Formation in JAFZA?

A Trading License allows you to import, export, store, or sell specific goods as per the license. For a broader range of activities and items, a General Trading License is the right choice.

Trading License
Looking to trade products across borders?

A Service License grants permission to operate within the Free Zone for specific services. If you're in the logistics sector, a Logistics License enables businesses to handle cargo, storage, warehousing, packing, trans-shipment, and distribution.

Service License
Planning to offer services within a Free Zone?

An Industrial License allows businesses to import raw materials, manufacture specified products, and export finished goods. For companies with at least 51% Arabian Gulf Co-operation Council (AGCC) ownership, the National Industrial License provides the same benefits as local or AGCC-owned entities within the UAE.

Industrial License
Engaged in manufacturing and exports?

The Types of Companies that can be Registered in JAFZA

Branch

Available for existing companies who want to set up their base in JAFZA.

Free Zone Company (FZCo)

Can be registered if there are two to five shareholders.

Free Zone Establishment (FZE)

If there is a single shareholder.

Documents Required for Setting up a Company in JAFZA

  • Each shareholder should provide an original bank reference letter
  • If applicable, a No Objection Letter from the current sponsor for the manager (if residing in the UAE and holding a UAE employment visa)
  • For shareholders: either an annual financial report or a 6-month bank statement (not needed for new registrations)
  • Initial approval(s) from relevant third-party authorities for specific business activities
  • Passport copy and CV of the shareholder(s)
  • Submission of an Application Form
  • Letter of Intent for forming a JAFZA company
  • Provision of an existing company brochure (if available)
  • Presentation of a Business Plan
  • Passport copy and Curriculum Vitae of the manager
  • Appointment of a legal representative if required
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Law and Regulatory Framework, About Mainland & Free Zone Business Activities, Taxation, Auditor and Accountants.

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Business Setup Costs in JAFZA

The expenses involved in setting up a business in JAFZA depend on the selected license type and facility. The key costs include:
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License Fees

Annual charges based on the category of the business license.

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Registration Fees

One-time payment required for business entity registration.

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Rental Charges

Costs for leasing office spaces, warehouses, or land plots.

Other Free Zones

Company Formation in JAFZA Free Zone - FAQ
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is Dubai’s largest free zone, strategically positioned to facilitate global trade. It significantly contributes to Dubai’s economy, with an annual impact of $104.2 billion.
A free zone company offers 100% foreign ownership, eligibility for residence visas, and the ability to trade locally and internationally. It also provides cost-effective setup options like flexi desks, making it a more favourable choice than offshore entities, especially for banking and operational ease.
The registration process typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the business structure and documentation requirements.
Yes, JAFZA allows you to establish multiple companies within the free zone, with each entity operating independently under its own registration.
VAT applies if the company generates taxable revenue above AED 375,000. Transactions outside the UAE are generally VAT-exempt, but sales within the UAE are subject to a 5% VAT.
An FZCo (Free Zone Company) allows multiple shareholders, while an FZE (Free Zone Establishment) is limited to a single shareholder. Both offer 100% foreign ownership, limited liability, and independent operations within the free zone.
Dubai Freezone is a foreign investor-friendly area in the city with complete ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified regulations. It’s perfect for global companies to establish their presence in Dubai and access regional markets.
Foreign investors who wish to set up their businesses in many Dubai Freezones can attain complete ownership, without the need for a local partner or sponsor. This unique ownership framework is a significant advantage that attracts international entrepreneurs to establish their businesses within these zones.
Visa requirements depend on nationality, but generally, business owners and employees must apply for a residence visa to work and stay in the UAE. The number of visas allowed is based on office space.
Yes, foreign companies can open a branch in JAFZA, enabling them to expand their presence while remaining linked to the parent company. This provides operational benefits within the free zone.
The minimum capital requirement varies by business type, but in most cases, there is no mandatory capital requirement for setting up a company.
Once your company is registered, you can apply for visas. The number of visas depends on your leased office space.
Basic documents include passport copies, business plan, application form, and shareholder details. Requirements may vary based on the company type.
Businesses operating within Dubai Freezones mainly aim to cater to international markets. However, they can also engage in limited trading within the UAE market by joining hands with distributors, wholesalers, or local agents. It is important to note that selling directly to the local market may require additional approvals and compliance with local regulations.
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