Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA)
JAFZA is the UAE's largest free zone by trade volume, directly connected to Jebel Ali Port. Best for logistics, import/export, and industrial-scale operations.
AED 30,000
Starting Cost
AED 15,000
Flexi-Desk
500+
Max Visas
1985
Established
Key Highlights
- ▸Largest free zone by trade volume
- ▸Direct port access (Jebel Ali Port)
- ▸Industrial-scale operations
- ▸Global logistics hub
About JAFZA
JAFZA is the UAE's original and largest free zone by trade volume, established in 1985 directly adjacent to Jebel Ali Port, which handles approximately 14% of Dubai's GDP and is the largest container port in the Middle East. This port adjacency is the core value proposition: businesses whose primary activity involves physical goods moving in or out of the region gain logistics integration that cannot be replicated elsewhere regardless of pricing. Import/export traders, manufacturers, third-party logistics providers, bonded warehousing operators, and regional distribution centers locate in JAFZA specifically because port connectivity eliminates logistics layers that other zones cannot remove. Over 7,000 companies from 135 nationalities operate within JAFZA, creating co-located freight relationships, supply chain expertise, and logistics service providers that reduce the time and cost of standing up import/export operations. JAFZA has direct road access to Sheikh Zayed Road and proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport, supporting air-freight operations alongside maritime logistics. For manufacturers, JAFZA's industrial land plots and bonded zone status allow raw material imports, local production, and re-export without UAE customs duties applying to goods that don't enter the domestic market. Setup costs are mid-range relative to Dubai zones and significantly higher than northern emirate alternatives. Service-only businesses rarely find JAFZA's operational advantages justify the cost premium over IFZA, DMCC, or comparable zones.
Plan your setup
Use our UAE Business Setup Cost Calculator to estimate your total Year 1 cost when setting up in JAFZA, including visas and office fees.
If you're operating in the UAE, you may need to calculate VAT on your invoices (mandatory registration if taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000/year).
JAFZA companies that qualify as QFZP may pay 0% on qualifying income — use our Corporate Tax Calculator with Advanced Options to model your QFZP tax position.
License Types Available
Banking Support
🏦 Excellent
Hiring employees in JAFZA? Calculate end-of-service gratuity entitlements under UAE Labour Law — payable within 14 days of contract end.
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