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JAFZA Freezone Company Formation Dubai

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JAFZA Freezone Company Formation in Dubai

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JAFZA Freezone Company Formation in Dubai

Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) is the flagship trade and logistics hub that has powered Dubai’s global business dominance since 1985. Strategically located between Jebel Ali Port, the largest seaport in the Middle East, and Al Maktoum International Airport, JAFZA forms a critical part of Dubai’s logistics corridor, enabling unparalleled connectivity by sea, land, and air.

From Fortune 500 giants to fast-growing SMEs, over 10,000 companies already call JAFZA home — leveraging its infrastructure, streamlined business processes, and access to more than 3.5 billion consumers within a 4-hour flight radius.

Benefits of JAFZA Freezone Company Formation

100% Foreign Ownership

JAFZA gives full ownership of shares, decision-making authority, and complete access to profits without any mandatory local partner involvement. This not only secures your autonomy but also simplifies strategic expansion, investor onboarding, and eventual exit strategies.

Total Tax & Customs Exemptions

You pay zero corporate tax, personal income tax, and capital gains tax. Import and export duties are entirely waived for goods traded within or through the free zone. This makes JAFZA attractive to trading companies, e-comm businesses, and manufacturers importing or exporting to international markets.

Global Connectivity & Strategic Location

Situated next to Jebel Ali Port ranked among the top 10 container ports worldwide and just minutes from Al Maktoum International Airport, your supply chain gains unmatched efficiency. This “sea-air” logistics combination allows goods to be shipped, cleared, and flown out within hours.

Fast & Simplified Company Registration

JAFZA operates on a highly digitalized, paper-light business setup model. From initial application to license issuance can be completed in as little as 3 to 14 working days, depending on the complexity of your structure. This efficiency is achieved through centralized approval systems and minimal bureaucratic layers.

World-Class Infrastructure

JAFZA provides ready-to-use facilities ranging from executive offices and flex-desks to large warehouses, showrooms, and industrial plots. All units are fully serviced with utilities, internet connectivity, and on-site logistics support. JAFZA has scalable solutions tailored to everyone’s needs.

Business Licenses/Activities in JAFZA

Trading & General Trading

A General Trading License covers multiple goods, while Specialized Trading focuses on specific categories. It supports import, export, distribution, and storage under one hub. This flexibility suits both diversified and niche traders efficiently.

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Manufacturing & Industrial Operations

Dedicated zones, warehouses, and custom units power light to heavy industries. Companies benefit from duty-free import/export of raw materials and equipment. Activities include assembly, fabrication, blending, packaging and more.

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Logistics & Supply Chain Services

JAFZA connects sea, air, and land logistics in one ecosystem. Services span freight forwarding, warehousing, cold storage, and last-mile delivery. Bonded storage keeps goods duty-free until entering the UAE mainland. The Dubai Logistics Corridor ensures faster port-to-airport transit.

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Professional & Consultancy Services

Service firms gain access to a large multinational client base. Activities include consultancy, IT, marketing, accounting, and design. Some regulated professions may need additional approvals. Workspace range from flex-desks to premium corporate offices.

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Holding & Investment Activities

Ideal for investors managing shares, capital, or IP regionally. Enjoy 0% corporate/personal tax and 100% foreign ownership. Strong UAE legal protections support international holdings. Multinationals use JAFZA as their Middle East–Africa–Asia HQ.

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Maritime & Shipping Operations

Proximity to Jebel Ali Port ensures unmatched efficiency. Activities include ship management, brokerage, and marine trading. Companies reduce operational costs with faster vessel turnaround. JAFZA is a preferred base for regional and global shipping firms.

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Legal Structures Available in JAFZA

Free Zone Establishment (FZE)

An FZE is a limited liability entity with a single shareholder, which can be either an individual or a corporate body. It is ideal for solo investors who want complete control over their business while enjoying limited liability protection. This means your personal assets remain secure in case of business debts or liabilities.

Free Zone Company (FZCO)

An FZCO functions similarly to an FZE but allows for multiple shareholders — up to a maximum of 50. This structure is ideal for partnerships, joint ventures, or companies looking to distribute ownership among multiple investors. Liability remains limited to the paid-up share capital.

Public Listed Company (PLC)

For larger ventures aiming to raise capital through public share offerings, JAFZA permits the establishment of a Public Listed Company. This structure follows international corporate governance standards and enables access to wider pools of investment.

Branch of a Foreign or UAE Company

Foreign businesses or existing UAE mainland companies can register a branch within JAFZA. The branch carries the same name and legal identity as the parent company, operates under the free zone’s licensing, and benefits from JAFZA’s incentives while maintaining links to the original entity.

Offshore Company

Offshore companies in JAFZA are primarily used for international holding, asset protection, and confidentiality purposes. They cannot conduct business within the UAE market but can own property in approved Dubai zones, hold bank accounts, and engage in international trade.

Step-by-Step Company Formation Process in JAFZA

1. Initial Consultation & Activity Selection

Define your intended business activities, choose the right legal structure, and determine the license type required.

2. Name Reservation & Application Submission

Secure your trade name and submit the initial application through JAFZA’s portal along with KYC documents.

3. Facility Selection & Lease Agreement

Choose from offices, warehouses, showrooms, or land plots based on your operational requirements.

4. Document Submission & Fee Payment

Provide the necessary legal documents, shareholder details, and make payment for licensing and registration.

5. Incorporation & Licensing

Upon approval, receive your incorporation certificate, trade license, and facility access to commence operations.

6. Visa Processing & Bank Account Opening

Apply for investor visas, employee visas, and open a corporate bank account to start business transactions.

Documents Required for JAFZA Company Formation

JAFZA operates with a clear and transparent documentation process, but each requirement serves a specific legal or compliance purpose. Providing accurate, complete documentation ensures your application is processed without delays.

  • Shareholder Passport Copies

    Every shareholder must submit a clear, valid passport copy. This serves to verify the legal identity of the business owners and confirm nationality, which is relevant for certain activity restrictions and compliance checks.

  • Proof of Residential Address

    Recent utility bills or bank statements (not older than three months) are required to confirm the residence of each shareholder. This supports due diligence and anti-money laundering (AML) compliance protocols.

  • Business Plan

    A well-structured business plan outlining your intended activities, target markets, and operational strategy is mandatory for certain activities. It enables JAFZA to assess the commercial viability and alignment with free zone objectives.

  • Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)

    This legal document defines the company’s structure, governance, and operational scope. It’s a contractual guide for internal management and external compliance.

  • Specimen Signature Forms

    Each shareholder or authorized signatory must provide a specimen signature to validate banking and legal documents.

  • Board Resolution (for Corporate Shareholders)

    If the shareholder is a company, a board resolution authorizing the formation of the JAFZA entity is required, along with notarized corporate documents such as the certificate of incorporation and trade license.

  • No Objection Certificate (NOC)

    If Applicable
    Required for UAE residents holding a valid visa under another sponsor. This confirms that your current sponsor approves your participation in the new entity.

How DSA Helps

Dubai Setup Advisors (DSA) simplifies every step of your UAE business formation journey from initial planning to long-term operational support. We’re not just consultants; we’re your on-ground execution partners with deep expertise in UAE legal, regulatory, and commercial frameworks.

Business Planning & Jurisdiction Comparison
Trade Name Reservation & Licensing Approvals
Legal Documentation, Drafting & Translation
Workspace & Tenancy Solutions
Bank Account Opening & Compliance Setup
Visa & Immigration Processing
PRO & Legal Documentation Services
Post-Incorporation Support & Growth Enablement

Why Choose Us?

At Dubai Setup Advisors (DSA), we go beyond basic company registration. We provide strategic guidance, legal clarity, and operational support tailored for global entrepreneurs and investors entering the UAE market. Here’s why clients from over 30 countries trust us to build their presence in the Emirates.

Extensive Experience

End-to-End Service

Transparent Pricing

Global Perspective

Personalized Approach

Comprehensive Network

FAQs – JAFZA Company Formation

Most companies can be fully incorporated within 3–14 working days, depending on the complexity of the legal structure and activity type.

Yes. JAFZA offers offices, warehouses, showrooms, and industrial land, enabling you to operate with a full physical presence and hire staff under UAE residency visas.

Absolutely. JAFZA issues service licenses for consultancy, IT, and other professional services, with no requirement for physical goods trading.

Yes, but you will need to appoint a local distributor or customs agent to clear goods into the mainland. DSA can connect you with licensed partners.

The minimum share capital is typically AED 500,000 for most entities, but this can vary based on your license type and business activity.