Skip to main content

Dubai · UAE Free Zone

JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone)

The Middle East's largest and most established free zone

Established1985
Companies7000+
Area57 square kilometers
LocationDubai
Official website

Zone at a glance

Cost efficiency
Setup speed
Flexibility

Relative rating across UAE free zones, scored out of five.

Overview

About JAFZA

JAFZA is the Middle East's largest and most established free zone, strategically located at Jebel Ali Port. It serves as a global trade and logistics hub, offering world-class infrastructure and connectivity to over 150 destinations worldwide. The zone provides comprehensive business solutions with 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of capital and profits, and no corporate or personal income taxes.

Governing Authority:Dubai Ports World (DP World)

Location & Connectivity

Nearest Airport

Al Maktoum International Airport

5 km away

Address

Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai, UAE

Total Area

57 square kilometers

Nearby Landmarks

Jebel Ali PortAl Maktoum International AirportDubai World CentralIbn Battuta MallDubai Marina

Interested in setting up in JAFZA?

Let's discuss your requirements and find the best solution for your business.

Sectors

Key Industries

Logistics and Transportation
Manufacturing
Trading
Automotive
Technology
Food and Beverage

Ideal For

Import/Export CompaniesManufacturing BusinessesLogistics ProvidersRegional HeadquartersDistribution CentersE-commerce Companies

Licensing

License Types & Costs

Trading License

For import, export, and re-export of goods and commodities

Starting from
18,500AED

Activities Allowed

Import, export, re-export, distribution, and trading activities

Industrial License

For manufacturing and industrial activities

Starting from
25,000AED

Activities Allowed

Manufacturing, assembly, processing, and industrial operations

Service License

For service-based business activities

Starting from
22,000AED

Activities Allowed

Consultancy, logistics services, maintenance, and professional services

Processing Time

5-7 working days

Annual Renewal

Same as initial license fee

Validity

1 year, renewable

Need help choosing the right license type?

Our experts can guide you through the licensing options and help you select the best fit.

Residency

Visa Information

Available for shareholders, directors, employees, and their dependents

2 visas

Flexi Desk

4-6 visas

Serviced Office

6-10 visas

Warehouse Office

Unlimited based on business plan

Land Lease

Investor VisaEmployee VisaManager VisaPartner VisaDependent Visa
Processing:7-10 working days
Golden Visa Eligible

Investment

Estimated Costs

License Fee
From 18,500 AED
Visa (per person)
~4,500 AED
Office Space
From 12,000 AED/year
Estimated First Year Total
From 35,000 AED
Approximate, starting estimate

Costs vary based on license type, office space, and number of visas required. Additional fees may apply for specific activities.

Want a detailed cost breakdown for your business?

Request a personalized quote tailored to your specific business needs.

Assessment

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Largest and most established free zone in the Middle East
  • Direct access to Jebel Ali Port with excellent logistics connectivity
  • World-class infrastructure and facilities
  • Strong reputation and credibility in international markets
  • Comprehensive range of warehouse and office options
  • Excellent connectivity to global shipping routes
  • 24/7 operational support and services
  • Strong industrial and manufacturing ecosystem

Considerations

  • Higher costs compared to newer free zones
  • Limited flexibility for small businesses
  • Distance from Dubai city center
  • More bureaucratic processes due to size and established procedures

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Advantages

Why Choose JAFZA?

100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor required
Zero corporate tax on qualifying income
Full repatriation of capital and profits
No currency or exchange restrictions
World-class infrastructure and connectivity
Streamlined business registration process

Best For

  • Large-scale trading operations
  • Manufacturing businesses
  • Logistics companies
  • Regional headquarters
  • Import/export businesses

Not Ideal For

  • Small startups with limited budgets
  • Service-only businesses
  • Companies requiring mainland market access
  • Businesses needing city center locations

Other Dubai Free Zones

Explore our comprehensive range of services designed to support your global business objectives.

DAFZA

Your Gateway to Global Business at Dubai's Aviation Hub

Learn More

DMCC

The World's Flagship Free Zone

Learn More

DAZ

The Middle East's Premier Automotive Hub

Learn More

Begin Your Journey

Ready to explore how AURNÉ can support your business objectives? Let's discuss your specific requirements.

Learn About Our Approach