JAFZA: company setup
Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority
Updated on 29 October 2026 · Published under the responsibility of Jason Pivron, director · Who we are
Why this zone
The only zone that makes sense if you handle physical goods. Adjacency to Jebel Ali port and bonded warehouse status cannot be replaced by an address.
What to watch for
The physical office is not optional. If your activity is entirely digital, you are paying for infrastructure you will never use.
Fee breakdown
All-inclusive package, official fees included: registration, first-year licence, establishment card and the minimum office the zone requires; visas are not included. Then €14,690 a year to renew the licence and the minimum office.
Suited activities
- Import and export
- Logistics and warehousing
- Industry and assembly
- Bonded warehousing
Banking
Solid. The port link and physical substance reassure institutions.
Setting up in JAFZA: the steps
- Scoping and choice of zone
- Name reservation and initial approval
- Licence issue
- Visa and identity
- Tax and bank account
Steps from our catalogue for the United Arab Emirates, recorded on 21 September 2026. Details and documents to provide →
JAFZA: what is specific to it
- Jebel Ali Free Zone adjoins Jebel Ali Port, operated by DP World. Source: jafza.ae (to be checked)
Where these figures come from
- Emirate (Dubai): jafza.ae
- Office, visas and setup time: our catalogue, recorded on 21 September 2026; to be checked with the zone.
- Banking: our assessment, not an authority's data.
JAFZA free zone: frequently asked questions
How much does a JAFZA licence cost?
From €14,747. All-inclusive package, official fees included: registration, first-year licence, establishment card and the minimum office the zone requires; visas are not included. Then €14,690 a year to renew the licence and the minimum office.
How long does company setup in JAFZA take?
5 to 7 business days (our catalogue, to be checked with the zone).
Which emirate is JAFZA in?
Dubai — Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority.
What office does a JAFZA company need?
Physical office mandatory (our catalogue, to be checked with the zone).
How many visas with a JAFZA company?
5 visas as standard, extendable (our catalogue, to be checked with the zone).
Can a JAFZA company open a bank account?
Solid. The port link and physical substance reassure institutions. No account can be guaranteed.
Which activities are allowed in JAFZA?
Import and export · Logistics and warehousing · Industry and assembly · Bonded warehousing.
What should I watch out for in JAFZA?
The physical office is not optional. If your activity is entirely digital, you are paying for infrastructure you will never use.