Home/ UAE Free Zones/ Dubai/ Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)

Jebel Ali
Free Zone (JAFZA)

JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone) is the UAE’s oldest and largest free zone, established in 1985 and managed by DP World. It provides direct access to Jebel Ali Port and is home to more than 9,000 businesses from over 150 countries. Widely recognised for business setup in Jebel Ali Free Zone, it is especially popular with trading, logistics, manufacturing, and distribution companies. Onshore businesses require a physical facility, with realistic first-year costs ranging from AED 50,000 to AED 150,000. JAFZA is also one of only two UAE jurisdictions offering a dedicated offshore company structure, making it a preferred destination for international investors and global businesses.

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Zone at a Glance
RegulatorJAFZA (DP World)
Launched1985
LocationJebel Ali, Dubai
Designated Zone Yes (VAT)
Entry-Level LicenceFrom AED 5,500 / yr
First-Year SetupAED 50K – 150K
Annual AuditGenerally required
Offshore OptionJAFZA Offshore Company
UAE LICENSED CORPORATE SERVICE PROVIDER
IncHub Corporate Services Providers LLC — Dubai World Trade Centre Authority Certificate of Partnership 2026-2027

IncHub Corporate Services Providers LLC is a duly licensed business operating in the United Arab Emirates, authorised to provide corporate and business setup consultancy services in accordance with its trade licence. The trade licence serves as official proof of the company’s legal registration and authorised business activities, demonstrating that IncHub operates as a licensed corporate service provider in the UAE.

Licence No.
1017774
Issue Date
28/12/2021
Valid Through
27/12/2026
Zone Overview

JAFZA: Dubai’s Original and Largest Free Zone

JAFZA, or the Jebel Ali Free Zone, was established in 1985 under a Ruler’s Decree as the UAE’s first free zone. It began with just 19 companies operating next to Jebel Ali Port and has since grown into the Middle East’s largest customs-bonded free zone, covering approximately 57 square kilometres. Since 2014, DP World has managed the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority, strengthening its position as one of the region’s leading business and logistics hubs. Today, Jebel Ali Free Zone company formation is one of the most popular choices for businesses expanding into the UAE due to its world-class infrastructure and global connectivity.

Today, the Jebel Ali Free Zone is home to 9,000+ companies from over 150 countries, including 100+ Fortune Global 500 organisations. Its direct access to Jebel Ali Port and proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport enable faster cargo movement, efficient customs, and lower logistics costs. These advantages make company formation in Jebel Ali Free Zone ideal for businesses targeting regional and international markets.

Target Profiles

Who Is JAFZA For?

Trade & Logistics

Traders, Freight & Distribution

Import, export, general trading, freight forwarding and supply chain companies needing bonded warehousing and direct Jebel Ali Port access.

Industrial

Manufacturers & Distributors

Factories, production units, workshops and FMCG, automotive, electronics and pharma distributors requiring large-scale storage and regional distribution.

Offshore & HQ

Holding Companies & MNC HQs

Multinational regional headquarters and international holding companies using the long-established JAFZA Offshore Company for cross-border ownership.

Ideal Profiles

Businesses JAFZA Is Built For

JAFZA is a leading trade, logistics, and industrial free zone designed for businesses that depend on port connectivity, warehousing, manufacturing, and efficient supply chains. Jebel Ali free zone business setup is best suited for import-export, logistics, distribution, and industrial companies that benefit from direct access to Jebel Ali Port and world-class transport infrastructure.

Import, Export & General Trading

Trading companies that require bonded warehousing and direct access to Jebel Ali Port.

Manufacturing & Industrial

Manufacturers operating from factories, production units, workshops or specialised industrial facilities.

Logistics & Freight Forwarding

Freight forwarding and supply chain companies that benefit from the port’s global connectivity.

Distribution & FMCG

Petrochemical, automotive, electronics, pharmaceutical and FMCG distributors needing large-scale regional storage.

Offshore & Regional HQs

Multinational regional headquarters and international holding companies using the long-established JAFZA Offshore Company.

Not Suitable For

A freelancer, consultant or digital-first business with no physical inventory or goods movement, where a lower-cost service free zone such as IFZA, SHAMS or Meydan will be simpler and cheaper to set up in.

Sector Profile

What JAFZA Is Known For

The Jebel Ali Free Zone is recognised globally as one of the world’s leading trade and logistics hubs. Located next to Jebel Ali Port, one of the world’s busiest container ports, JAFZA is home to more than 9,000 companies, including globally recognised brands such as Samsung, LG, Unilever, Procter & Gamble, IKEA, Siemens and Hyundai, that distribute products across the GCC, the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.

The Core Commercial Case

An integrated logistics ecosystem. Businesses can import goods into bonded warehouses within JAFZA, store inventory efficiently, and distribute products across multiple international markets from a single regional hub. UAE customs duty generally applies only when goods enter the mainland for local consumption, while goods re-exported from the free zone follow the applicable customs and designated zone rules significantly improving cash flow and operational efficiency for trading and distribution businesses.

Designated Zone for VAT Purposes

Yes. The Jebel Ali Free Zone is recognised as a Designated Zone for UAE VAT purposes, subject to the conditions of the UAE VAT legislation. For businesses considering company formation in Jebel Ali Free Zone, qualifying movements and supplies of goods within or between designated zones may benefit from specific VAT treatment, provided all statutory requirements, including Customs supervision, are met. However, services such as consultancy, management, and professional fees are generally subject to the standard 5% UAE VAT, and VAT registration is mandatory once annual taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000.

Structures & Requirements

Licence Types, Company Structures & Share Capital

Explore the licence types and company structures available for Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) company formation.

Licensing

License Types Available

Trading Licence (Type 1): up to seven activities within a single product group, for import, export and wholesale trading.
Trading Licence (Type 2): up to 12 activities across two product groups, for broader trading portfolios.
General Trading Licence: trade across multiple product categories without being restricted to a single product group.
Industrial Licence: manufacturing, processing, assembly, packaging and fabrication from approved JAFZA industrial facilities.
Service, Logistics & E-Commerce Licences: consultancy and IT; freight forwarding and warehousing; and online retail and fulfilment.
JAFZA maintains an extensive list of approved business activities; regulated sectors such as financial services, healthcare, education and telecommunications may require additional approvals from the relevant UAE authorities.
Structures & Capital

Company Structures

FZE

Single shareholder — individual or corporate.

FZCO

Two or more shareholders — partnerships, groups.

Branch Office

Extension of a UAE or foreign parent.

PLC

Public listed company for public ownership.

JAFZA Offshore

Holding & asset protection. No visas or office.

Requirements
At least one shareholder (individual or corporate).
A leased facility within JAFZA (onshore companies).
A general manager appointed for the company.
Share Capital

JAFZA imposes no fixed statutory minimum share capital for most activities. Capital is stated in the constitutional documents and should suit the intended activity; some activities carry specific expectations. Confirm the exact figure with JAFZA.

Setup Costs

JAFZA Setup Costs at a Glance

Licence fees at JAFZA start from around AED 5,500, but the realistic first-year cost of Jebel Ali Free Zone company formation typically ranges from AED 50,000 to AED 150,000. The total cost of free zone business setup in Jebel Ali depends on the licence type, office or warehouse requirements, visa allocation, and the chosen business activity.

Trading (Type 1) / Service / Industrial Licence

From AED 5,500 per year.

General Trading / Logistics / E-Commerce Licence

From AED 15,000 per year (Trading Type 2 from AED 9,000).

Company Registration Fee

AED 5,000 to 12,500 (one-time).

Workstation / Entry-Level Facility

From AED 5,000 to 15,000 per year, depending on facility type.

JAFZA Offshore Company

Approx. AED 14,000 to 20,000 per year, including registered agent.

JAFZA Cost Calculator

Not sure what it’ll cost? Get an exact, itemised quote for your specific activity and structure in under 2 minutes.

Open Cost Calculator

Prefer to talk it through first? Book a free consultation call.

Formation Guide

The 5-Step JAFZA Formation Process

The Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority company formation process runs in five stages, from activity selection to a fully operational bank account. Each links to a full guide below.

1
Choose Activity & Structure
1 – 2 business days
Select your licence (Trading, Industrial, Service, Logistics, E-Commerce, or General Trading) and company structure (FZE, FZCO, Branch, or Offshore).
2
Name & Facility
5 – 10 business days
Reserve a trade name through JAFZA’s platform and submit the incorporation documents. Then choose your facility a workstation, office, warehouse or industrial unit.
3
Fees & Licence
3 – 5 business days
Pay the registration, licence and facility fees and sign the incorporation documents. Receive your JAFZA trade licence, typically within 3 to 14 working days.
4
Visas
7 – 10 business days
Apply for UAE residency visas under your facility’s visa quota, including the in-person medical test and Emirates ID biometric appointment.
5
Bank Account
4 – 6 weeks
Open a corporate bank account for your new company a separate process from licensing, handled directly with your chosen UAE bank.
Key Benefits

Why Businesses Choose JAFZA

Direct Access to Jebel Ali Port

Immediate connectivity to one of the world’s busiest container ports, reducing logistics costs and improving supply chain efficiency.

A Community of 9,000+ Companies

Thousands of multinationals, manufacturers, traders and logistics providers, creating valuable networking and commercial opportunities.

Established Offshore Framework

One of the UAE’s most recognised offshore company structures, preferred for international holding companies and cross-border asset ownership.

Strong Regulatory Framework

Robust compliance standards that support transparency and enhance credibility with banks, investors and international business partners.

Comprehensive Licensing Options

Trading, General Trading, Industrial, Logistics, Service, E-Commerce and Offshore structures one of the UAE’s most versatile free zones.

Consider Alternatives

When JAFZA Isn’t the Right Fit

Purely Digital or Consultancy

Digital or consultancy businesses that need no warehousing or goods movement may find IFZA, SHAMS or Meydan more cost-effective.

Lowest Entry Cost Is the Priority

Other UAE free zones may offer lower entry costs for businesses that do not require port access or logistics facilities.

Regulated Financial Services

Businesses needing DFSA regulation or DIFC Courts access should consider DIFC; JAFZA operates no financial services regulatory framework.

Abu Dhabi or Khalifa Port Focus

Businesses serving Abu Dhabi government entities or operating through Khalifa Port may find KEZAD a more suitable location.

IncHub evaluates your business activity, operational requirements, target markets and long-term growth plans to determine whether JAFZA, DMCC, IFZA, Dubai South or another UAE free zone is the most suitable option.

Free Zone Comparison

JAFZA vs DMCC vs Dubai South

Dubai’s leading trade and logistics free zones serve overlapping industries in different ways. IncHub compares each one so you choose the authority that matches your actual trade flow, not just the best-known name.

Factor Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) DMCC Dubai South (DWC)
Core Industries Trading, manufacturing, logistics Commodities, trading, services Logistics, aviation, e-commerce
Major Infrastructure Jebel Ali Port + Al Maktoum Airport Central Dubai (JLT) Al Maktoum Airport (DWC)
Import/Export Businesses Excellent Strong Very strong
Warehousing Facilities Extensive Limited Extensive
Manufacturing / Industrial Excellent Limited Available
Offshore Company Option Yes (JAFZA Offshore) No No
Direct Port Access Direct (Jebel Ali) None Via Jebel Ali
Ideal Company Types Trading, manufacturing, logistics, offshore holding Commodities, trading, professional services Logistics, aviation, e-commerce

IncHub holds direct relationships with JAFZA, DMCC and Dubai South, helping you choose the free zone that best fits your trade flow and industry, not just the one with the lowest headline fee.

Compliance

What JAFZA Companies Must Stay Compliant With

Jebel Ali Free Zone company formation requires compliance with UAE federal regulations, including corporate tax, VAT, UBO, accounting, licence renewal, visa renewal, and FTA amendments. JAFZA-specific compliance obligations are outlined below.

Annual Audit

Most onshore JAFZA companies must prepare annual audited financial statements by a UAE-registered auditor. Audited accounts are generally required for licence renewal and may support eligibility for the 0% Corporate Tax rate as a Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP).

Economic Substance Regulations (ESR)

Companies conducting relevant activities must file annual ESR notifications and, where applicable, ESR reports with the FTA. Penalties start at AED 50,000 and increase to AED 400,000 for repeat violations.

Port & Customs Compliance

Businesses operating through Jebel Ali Port must comply with Dubai Customs and applicable port regulations. Companies involved in import, export, warehousing, and logistics should maintain compliance with customs procedures, cargo handling, and port access requirements.

JAFZA Compliance Guide

Standard UAE federal compliance obligations for free zone companies corporate tax, VAT, UBO, accounting, licence and visa renewal, and FTA amendments covered in one detailed guide.

Want IncHub to manage compliance for your JAFZA company? Book a free review call.

Prefer to read it yourself first?

Read the Compliance Guide →
Client Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Watch how IncHub helped businesses set up in Dubai’s original and largest free zone.

Video Stories
Google Reviews 1 / 20
L
L S R Holiday Homes L.L.C
3 weeks ago

Visa renewal can often feel complicated due to the multiple steps involved. However, my experience with IncHub was very smooth. They planned the process in advance, guided me at every stage, and ensured everything was completed on time. What I liked most was that I didn’t have to follow up everything was managed efficiently by their team.

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D
DigitalX Tech – FZCO
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company was not straightforward, especially when it came to choosing the right jurisdiction for my business model. Making the wrong decision could have resulted in unnecessary time and cost. IncHub provided clear and practical guidance, helping me select the most suitable free zone based on my activities.

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C
Cosmium IT – FZCO
2 months ago

Setting up a company in Dubai can get confusing, especially with so many free zones. I wasn’t sure what would suit my business, but IncHub made it simple. They guided me clearly, handled everything, and kept me updated throughout. The whole process felt very smooth. Definitely recommend speaking to them before you get started.

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B
BLUEDCM FZE
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company through IncHub was seamless from start to finish. Their team handled everything — trade licence, immigration card, and office registration — within the promised timeline. No surprises on costs. If you’re serious about establishing in the UAE, IncHub is who you call first.

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A
ABI Quality Goods Wholesalers Co. L.L.C
2 weeks ago

Most consultants only react when you approach them, but Inchub is different. They track your renewal timelines and remind you in advance. The execution was smooth, and everything was done exactly when it should be. If you want it done right the first time, Inchub is the way to go.

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O
Optimity L.L.C
1 month ago

I had a very positive experience with Inchub for my license renewal. What stood out the most was their follow-up system — I was reminded well before the expiry date, which gave enough time to plan everything properly. The team handled the entire process efficiently, and the renewal was completed without delays.

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U
Univex L.L.C-FZ
3 months ago

Inchub handled the entire business setup process smoothly — everything was clearly explained, and the execution was efficient from start to finish. They have also assisted and guided us when there were AML compliance notifications from the authority. Overall, a reliable partner for end-to-end corporate services.

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E
Ecom Vacation Homes Rental L.L.C
1 month ago

We had a bit of a challenge when it came to opening the labor file and processing new visas. There were a few complications along the way. That’s where Inchub really stepped in. Their team handled the entire process clearly and kept us updated throughout without us having to follow up constantly. Very reliable team.

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C
CMAR Management FZE
3 months ago

Our experience with Inchub has genuinely exceeded expectations. From the very beginning, the team has been extremely professional, approachable, and proactive. They’ve supported us across multiple areas — including corporate services, corporate tax filing, and visa renewals — all managed in a structured manner.

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T
Toyo Mea L.L.C-FZ
2 months ago

We worked with Inchub on a share amendment, which was quite complex. Their team guided us through each step, managed the process efficiently, and ensured everything was handled correctly despite the challenges. They also handle our accounting and VAT filing smoothly. A reliable and professional team.

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N
Nicube International FZCO
4 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub across multiple areas. They initially helped us with setting up both our offshore and free zone company, guiding us clearly. Since then, they’ve assisted us with annual renewals on time, and they manage our accounting and VAT filings efficiently. A highly dependable partner.

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W
Well Mate L.L.C-FZ
5 months ago

I’ve been working with Inchub for several years, and the experience has been consistently positive. Their services are reliable and efficient. They’ve supported me across multiple areas — from managing trade license renewals to assisting with business bank account opening. Having everything under one team saved a lot of effort.

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T
Telora Global L.L.C – FZ
2 months ago

Managing compliance alongside running a business can get overwhelming. Inchub takes care of our accounting, VAT, CT filings, and license renewal, which has saved us a lot of time and effort. Everything is handled efficiently and professionally. IncHub operates across every discipline and maintains high quality.

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G
Gaia Resources DMCC
2 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub for our ongoing compliance and business support. They handle everything from maintaining our company’s good standing to managing renewals on time, along with accounting and VAT filings. A very smooth experience, and they are definitely a reliable partner.

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N
Nextgen Brokers FZE
3 months ago

We have engaged Inchub for ongoing compliance support. They handle our company’s good standing, ensure renewals are completed on time, and manage accounting and VAT filings efficiently. The team is proactive, well-organized, and keeps everything on track without the need for constant follow-ups.

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M
Mw Holding Group Ltd
4 months ago

We worked with Inchub for setting up our offshore holding company. They facilitated the entire process smoothly, including the company formation and opening the corporate bank account. They also manage our accounting and bookkeeping. It’s helpful to have one team handling both setup and ongoing requirements.

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J
Jannali Foundation
3 months ago

We engaged Inchub for setting up our RAK ICC foundation. They supported us throughout the entire formation process, including documentation, and guided us at every step. They also assisted with opening the bank account, which was handled smoothly. The team was very organized and efficient.

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D
Drops By Nada Portal
1 month ago

We worked with Inchub for both our license renewal and visa renewal. The entire process was handled very smoothly and efficiently from start to finish. Everything was completed right on time without any complications. Their structured approach and clear communication make them very easy to work with.

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P
Peopex LLC
5 months ago

Setting up a company in the UAE can feel complex. With Inchub, the entire process was handled seamlessly. They took care of everything — from the trade license and immigration card to visa application and even opening the company bank account. The team managed the entire process efficiently.

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A
Aube International Commercial Brokers
4 weeks ago

We’ve been working with Inchub since day one for license renewals, accounting and bookkeeping, and visa processing. The experience has been very smooth. One thing that stands out is how responsive their team is. Whenever we need support, they’re quick to respond and guide us clearly.

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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Work with IncHub

Set Up Your JAFZA Company with IncHub

IncHub provides end-to-end support for company formation in Jebel Ali Free Zone, including licence and facility selection, company structuring, JAFZA Offshore Company setup, visa processing, corporate bank account assistance, and ongoing audit and ESR compliance—all through a single point of contact.

Al Fajer Business Centre, Al Garhoud, Dubai  |  www.inchub.ae