Key Activities | Trading, manufacturing, logistics, distribution |
Office Space/Warehouse | Required to have an office or warehouse within the zone |
Registration Timeframe | 3 to 4 weeks |
WPS Registration | Yes, required |
Audit Requirements | Yes, annual audit required |
Benefits of Setting Up a Business in JAFZA
- 100% foreign ownership: Maintain full control of your business without the requirement for a local partner.
- Zero taxes: Enjoy zero corporate tax, personal income tax, and import/export duties. Fast and easy registration: Streamlined registration process with minimal documentation and quick approval.
- Diverse business activities: JAFZA welcomes a wide range of activities including logistics, manufacturing, trading, technology, and services.
- Flexible business structures: Choose from various business structures, including Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), branches, and representative offices.Access to global markets: Utilize JAFZA's strategic location and global connections to access an extensive network of markets.
- Business support: JAFZA provides a supportive ecosystem for business growth, offering incubation centers, networking opportunities, and access to expert services.
Business Activities in JAFZA, UAE
- Logistics and Supply Chain: Warehousing, transportation services, distribution, and freight forwarding.
- Manufacturing: Establishment of manufacturing facilities for various goods. Trade and Import/Export: Import, export, and re-export of goods and raw materials.
- Technology and Innovation: Development, implementation, and support of technological solutions.
- Professional Services: Consulting, accounting, legal, and other professional services.
- E-commerce and Retail: Creation of online businesses and physical retail outlets.
- Media and Entertainment: Production, distribution, and broadcasting of media content.
Types of Companies in JAFZA
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): A limited liability company with a single shareholder.
- Free Zone Company (FZCo): A limited liability company with multiple shareholders.
- Branch of a Foreign Company: Establishing a branch of your existing foreign company to operate within the free zone.
- Representative Office: Establishing a representative office to promote your company's products or services in the region.
License Costs
The cost of licenses in the JAFZA free zone depends on the type of company and the selected business activities. The basic annual license fee is USD 12,400 (AED 45,539).- Registration Fee: A non-refundable registration fee is applied for processing the application.
- License Fee: The cost of the business license varies depending on the type of company and selected business activities.
- Additional Fees: Additional charges may apply for services such as visa processing, office space rental, and legal assistance.
Business Registration Steps in JAFZA
- Choosing the Company Structure: Select the appropriate type of company based on your business needs and ownership structure.
- Preparing Necessary Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including the company charter, directors' passports, business plan, and financial statements.
- Submitting an Online Application: Complete and submit the online application form via the JAFZA portal.
- Paying Fees: Pay the necessary fees for registration, licensing, and other applicable charges.
- Undergoing an Interview (if required): If necessary, undergo an interview with JAFZA representatives to discuss your business plans.
- Receiving License and Permits: After successfully completing the process, receive your business license and any necessary permits.
Documents Required for Company Formation in JAFZA
The specific set of documents required for company registration in JAFZA depends on the type of company and the nature of the business. However, some common documents include:- Company Charter:
- Describes the company's structure, objectives, and management.
- Must be notarized in the company's country of origin.
- Translation into Arabic must be certified by a translator.
- Passports of Directors and Shareholders:
- Copies of passports for all directors and shareholders of the company.
- Must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of application.
- Copies must be notarially certified.
- Business Plan:
- A detailed business plan that demonstrates the viability of your proposed business.
- It should include your business concept, target market, competitive analysis, marketing strategy, financial projections, and the qualifications of the management team.
- The business plan must be translated into English.
- Audited Financial Statements:
- Audited financial statements of the founders for the last three years.
- These are necessary to assess their financial position and ability to contribute to the success of the company.
- The financial statements must be translated into English.
- Additional Documents:
- Professional Licenses or Certificates: If your business involves regulated activities, provide copies of all relevant professional licenses or certificates held by directors or key employees.
- Consent Letters: Obtain consent letters from all individuals or organizations mentioned in your business plan or applications.
- Proof of Address: Provide proof of address for all directors and shareholders, such as utility bills or bank statements.
- All documents must be presented in English or have a certified translation into English.
- JAFZA may request additional documents depending on the specific circumstances of your case.
- Before submitting an application for company registration in JAFZA, thoroughly review the document requirements on the JAFZA website.
- Consult with a lawyer or a business registration specialist in the UAE to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and that your application is completed correctly.
Cost of Company Registration
The cost of company registration in JAFZA depends on the selected company structure, required licenses, and services. Generally, the overall expenses include:- Registration Fee: Payment for processing your company registration application.
- License Fee: The cost of the business license depends on the selected type of activity and the scale of your company.
- Office Space: The rental of office space in JAFZA varies depending on size and location.
- Banking Fees: Opening a corporate bank account involves fees for account opening and ongoing maintenance costs.
- Visa Fees: Obtaining residency visas for yourself, employees, and family members involves government fees.
- Additional Fees: Extra costs may arise from obtaining establishment cards, legal services, and other administrative tasks.
- Have many years of experience working with JAFZA.
- Are knowledgeable about all the intricacies and nuances of registering and conducting business in the free zone.
- Will help you choose the optimal business structure.
- Will provide individual consultation on all matters.
- Will take care of all the registration processes for your company, obtaining permits, and licenses.
- Will find suitable office space for you.
- Will assist in opening a corporate bank account.
- Will handle visa arrangements for you, your employees, and family members.
- Will provide you with accounting support.