Jebel Ali Free Zone
Jebel Ali Free Zone
Overview
Established in 1985, Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is one of the UAE’s most established and expansive free zones. Strategically located adjacent to Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport, JAFZA offers one of the region’s most efficient multimodal logistics corridors, enabling seamless trade via sea, air, and land.
JAFZA is a major economic contributor to Dubai, accounting for nearly 24% of the emirate’s total foreign direct investment and supporting over 130,000 jobs. It serves as a key platform for industrial, trading, and logistics-based businesses across a wide range of sectors.
Key Features of JAFZA
- Strategic Trade Gateway:
Direct access to one of the world’s largest container ports and proximity to Dubai’s international airports make JAFZA ideal for global distribution and regional warehousing. - Established Business Community:
As of 2025, home to more than 10,700 businesses from over 150 countries, including 100+ Fortune Global 500 companies. - Scalable Setup Options:
Flexible company structures are available, including:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE) – single shareholder
- Free Zone Company (FZCO) – multiple shareholders
- Branch offices
- JAFZA Offshore – for international business operations without a physical presence
- Integrated Infrastructure:
JAFZA offers a full suite of industrial and commercial facilities including land plots, warehouses, offices, showrooms, and flexi-desk options.
Industry Sectors in JAFZA
JAFZA attracts a diverse range of industries due to its location, infrastructure, and access to international supply chains. Key sectors include:
- Logistics and supply chain services
- Automotive and spare parts
- Electronics and electrical equipment
- FMCG and consumer goods
- Food and agricultural products
- Petrochemicals and industrial chemicals
- Retail, e-commerce, and distribution
- Machinery and manufacturing equipment
- Healthcare and pharmaceutical distribution
Available Facilities
Subject to availability and licensing requirements, JAFZA offers a wide range of built-to-suit and ready-to-use commercial and industrial facilities:
- Plots of Land – for custom development
- Warehouses and Storage Units
- Showrooms and Retail Outlets
- Office Spaces – including co-working and workstation options
- Flexi Desks – subject to business activity type
- Workers’ Accommodation – on-site residence options for labour-intensive businesses
Licensing & Incorporation
JAFZA issues licenses for a wide array of activities, including:
- Trading License
- Service License
- Industrial License
- E-Commerce License
- Offshore Company Formation (JAFZA Offshore – governed by separate regulations)
Each license is subject to review based on the nature of activity, facility type, and shareholder profile.
Regulatory & Compliance Considerations
- Ownership: 100% foreign ownership permitted
- Taxation: Qualifying income may benefit from 0% corporate tax under UAE Free Zone provisions, subject to current laws
- Residency: Investor and employee visas are available depending on license and facility type
- Compliance: Adherence to Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) rules and AML/CFT regulations is mandatory
Who Should Consider JAFZA?
JAFZA is particularly suitable for:
- Manufacturers and industrial operators requiring large-scale facilities
- Regional logistics hubs or warehousing operations
- Export-oriented trading companies
- Multinational corporations establishing a regional presence
- Offshore entities looking to hold international assets or conduct global trade
Benefits of Partnering with Crowe UAE for Company Incorporation
Start Your UAE Business with Confidence
Establishing your presence in the UAE opens the door to a dynamic, opportunity-rich market, and Crowe UAE is here to help you make the most of it.
Contact us today to explore how we can support your company formation plans, streamline the process, and set your business up for long-term success.
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Ilhaam Maniar
Manager - CMBC