Set Up a Company in Jebel Ali Free Zone
UAE's oldest and largest free zone. Direct port access. Home to 9,000+ companies including Fortune 500 firms.
Jebel Ali Free Zone
JAFZA (DP World)
- Jebel Ali, Dubai, Dubai
- Regulated by JAFZA (DP World)
- Established 1985
- Official website
Best for:
Why Choose JAFZA?
JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone) is the UAE's oldest free zone, established in 1985. Operated by DP World, JAFZA is strategically located adjacent to Jebel Ali Port — the world's largest man-made harbour. The zone hosts over 9,000 companies including Fortune 500 firms, making it ideal for manufacturing, logistics, and large-scale trading operations.
Direct Port Access
Adjacent to Jebel Ali Port — world's largest man-made harbour.
UAE's Oldest Free Zone
Established in 1985 with nearly 40 years of proven track record.
Fortune 500 Home
Hosts over 9,000 companies including major multinational corporations.
Manufacturing Hub
Extensive industrial facilities and warehousing available.
ISO Certified
JAFZA maintains ISO certification for quality management.
Qualifying Tax Benefits
Eligible for 0% corporate tax on qualifying income.
Important: What JAFZA companies cannot do
- Located 35km from central Dubai
- Higher costs than newer free zones
- Longer setup time due to thorough processes
- More suited to larger businesses with physical operations
JAFZA Setup Costs — 2026 Pricing
Prices shown are indicative of 2026 market rates. Exact costs depend on your chosen activities, visa quota, and office package. Get an exact quote →
Year 1 total: ~AED 35,000+ |Annual renewal: From AED 22,750. Year 2 onwards is typically 30–40% less as registration fees are one-off.
How to Register a Company in JAFZA
Choose Your Activities
Select up to 3+ business activities from JAFZA's approved list.
Reserve Your Company Name
Choose a unique company name following UAE naming rules. Must include FZE or FZCO suffix.
Submit Documents
Passport copy, photo, proof of address. Can be processed 100% remotely.
Receive Initial Approval
JAFZA reviews your application. Initial approval typically takes 5 business days.
Pay & Receive Your Licence
After payment, your trade licence is issued within 5-14 working days.
Apply for Visas
With your licence, apply for UAE residence visas. Process takes 3-5 weeks with in-person medical and biometrics.
UAE Residence Visas Through JAFZA
Visa Quota
With a JAFZA licence you can sponsor up to 1000 residence visas depending on your office package. Flexi desk packages typically allow 3 visas.
Visa Cost
Each UAE residence visa through JAFZA costs approximately AED 4,000 – 6,000 including entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping fees.
Visa Validity
UAE free zone residence visas are valid for 2–3 years and can be renewed. Your visa is tied to your company — if the licence lapses, visas must be renewed or cancelled.