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Set Up Your Business in JAFZA. Dubai's Largest Free Trade Zone
JAFZA offers strong connectivity, 100% foreign ownership, and a setup built for international trade. IMC supports your JAFZA entry from company formation to ongoing compliance.
Who We’ve Worked With
JAFZA: Dubai’s Gateway to Global Business Opportunities
Established in 1985, JAFZA is Dubai’s first and most prominent free trade zone, offering top-tier infrastructure, value-added services, and investor-friendly policies. Its strategic location near major airports, seaports, and the upcoming Etihad Rail makes it a powerful logistics hub. With access to a market of over two billion people across the Middle East, JAFZA creates wide-ranging opportunities for international business expansion. Businesses planning cross-border structures can also consider a DIFC and JAFZA dual zone strategy to separate holding and operational activities efficiently.
How It Works
Before finalising your setup, it is important to assess your business model and expected revenue streams. This includes evaluating free zone mainland access in the UAE and how your company will engage with customers within Dubai and across the UAE.
Define business activity and structure
Select the right license type, legal structure, and activity based on your operations and future plans.
Name approval and initial application
Reserve your company name and submit initial details to start the registration process.
Documentation and
approvals
approvals
Prepare and submit shareholder documents, passport copies, and required forms for authority approval.
License issuance and facility selection
Obtain your business license and choose office, warehouse, or flexi-desk options within JAFZA.
Visa processing and bank account setup
Apply for visas and complete corporate bank account opening to start operations.
Key Benefits of Setting Up in JAFZA
We provide comprehensive accounting solutions tailored to meet business needs across all stages of growth.
1. Full Foreign Ownership & Capital Freedom
Enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no restrictions on profit or capital repatriation.
2. Visa & Talent Flexibility
Apply for UAE residency visas with no limitations on hiring international talent.
3. Tax & Duty Exemptions
Benefit from zero personal income tax, no import/export duties, and no currency restrictions.
4. Strategic Business Infrastructure
Access ready-to-use offices, warehouses, and factories in a modern, secure environment near retail hubs.
5. Seamless Customs Support
Onsite customs facilities ensure fast and efficient cargo clearance.
6. Flexible Shareholding Structure
No cap on the number of shareholders, subject to approval by the relevant authority.
Which are the Licenses Available for Company Formation in JAFZA?
Trading License – For Product Movement Across Borders
A Trading License lets you import, export, store, and distribute specific items. For more flexibility, consider a General Trading License to cover a wider product range.
Service License – For Professional or Sector-Specific Services
A Service License enables you to deliver approved services within the free zone. For logistics activities, a specialized Logistics License covers cargo handling, warehousing, packing, and distribution.
Industrial License – For Manufacturing & Export Needs
An Industrial License permits the import of raw materials, production of goods, and export. If you have at least 51% AGCC ownership, a National Industrial License gives you the same benefits as a local company.
Documents Required for Setting Up a Company in JAFZA
- Passport Copy (Shareholders and Manager)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) (Shareholders and Manager)
- Original Bank Reference Letter (For each shareholder)
- 6-Month Bank Statement or Annual Financial Report (For existing shareholders; not needed for new incorporations)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) (If manager is under UAE employment visa)
- Initial Approvals (From relevant authorities for specific activities)
- Application Form & Letter of Intent (For company formation)
- Business Plan (Detailed proposal for the new company)
- Company Brochure (If available)
- Legal Representative Appointment Document (If applicable)
Why Choose IMC for Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) Company Formation?
Deep Expertise in JAFZA Regulations
Our team has extensive experience navigating JAFZA’s legal and procedural framework for smooth company setup.
End-to-End Support
From name reservation to license issuance, we manage the entire process for you.
Tailored Business Structuring
We advise on the most suitable entity type and license based on your industry and goals.
Deep Expertise in JAFZA Regulations
Our team has extensive experience navigating JAFZA’s legal and procedural framework for smooth company setup.
End-to-End Support
From name reservation to license issuance, we manage the entire process for you.
Tailored Business Structuring
We advise on the most suitable entity type and license based on your industry and goals.
Fast & Efficient Setup
IMC ensures timely documentation, coordination, and follow-ups to expedite your business registration.
Post-Incorporation Assistance
We offer continued support, including visa processing, renewals, bank account setup, and compliance.
Transparent Pricing & Trusted Advisory
Clear fee structure with no hidden charges, backed by reliable advice from experienced professionals.
Fast & Efficient Setup
IMC ensures timely documentation, coordination, and follow-ups to expedite your business registration.
Post-Incorporation Assistance
We offer continued support, including visa processing, renewals, bank account setup, and compliance.
Transparent Pricing & Trusted Advisory
Clear fee structure with no hidden charges, backed by reliable advice from experienced professionals.
Your Vision, Our Mission. Let's Discuss
FAQs
What is the Jebel Ali Free Zone?
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.
Why choose a free zone company over an offshore or mainland entity?
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.
How long does it take to register a business in JAFZA?
The registration process typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the business structure and documentation requirements.
Can I own multiple businesses in JAFZA?
Yes, JAFZA allows you to establish multiple companies within the free zone, with each entity operating independently under its own registration.
Do free zone companies need to pay VAT?
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.
What is the difference between an FZE and an FZCo?
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.
How to Start a Business in Dubai Freezone? Why it is beneficial?
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.
Are there limitations on foreign investor ownership in Dubai Freezones?
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.
How long does company registration in JAFZA take?
JAFZA company registration typically takes around 7 to 15 working days, depending on the activity, documentation readiness, and approval timelines during the business set up process.
What is the minimum capital required for company formation in JAFZA?
Minimum capital for JAFZA company formation depends on the entity type, such as FZE or FZCo, and may not always require upfront deposit during company set up.
What is the difference between an FZE and an FZCo in JAFZA company set up?
An FZE is a single shareholder entity, while an FZCo allows two or more shareholders. Both are commonly used structures in JAFZA company formation.
Can a JAFZA company trade in the UAE mainland?
A JAFZA company can trade in the mainland UAE through a local distributor or by setting up a mainland entity as part of an extended business set up strategy.
What are the visa requirements for JAFZA company formation?
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.
Can a foreign company establish a branch in JAFZA?
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.
What is the minimum capital required to set up a company in JAFZA?
The minimum capital requirement varies by business type, but in most cases, there is no mandatory capital requirement for setting up a company.
What is the process for obtaining a JAFZA residence visa?
Once your company is registered, you can apply for visas. The number of visas depends on your leased office space.
What documents are required for JAFZA company formation?
Basic documents include passport copies, business plan, application form, and shareholder details. Requirements may vary based on the company type.
Is it possible to conduct trade with the local UAE market if I establish a business in a Dubai Freezone?
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.
Is VAT applicable after company formation in JAFZA?
Yes, VAT applies if your JAFZA business set up crosses the registration threshold or involves taxable supplies within the UAE.
Can a foreign company register a branch in JAFZA?
Yes, a foreign company can complete company registration in JAFZA by opening a branch, without creating a separate legal entity.
What documents are required for company formation in JAFZA?
JAFZA company formation requires passport copies of shareholders, application forms, business plan, and corporate documents if shareholders are entities.
How many visas are allowed after JAFZA company set up?
Visa eligibility depends on the facility chosen during JAFZA business set up, with flexi desks offering fewer visas and larger offices allowing more.
Can a JAFZA company trade in the UAE mainland?
Yes, a JAFZA company can trade in the mainland through an appointed local distributor or by setting up a mainland entity as part of a broader structure. Many businesses also consider a Dubai dual zone structure for international business to balance operational flexibility with regulatory positioning.
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