About Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA):
Jebel Ali Free Zone is a free economic zone located in the Jebel Ali area at the far western end of Dubai. A leading Free Zone in the region, it lies at the centre of global trade and is part of a unique ecosystem that offers end-to-end solutions and growth opportunities to businesses operating both locally and internationally. This strong business environment also makes it a preferred destination for investors considering JAFZA Offshore company formation.
In over three decades, JAFZA has grown from 19 companies in 1985 to more than 500 in 1995, and over 8,000 today, including nearly 100 Global Fortune 500 enterprises. Many of these companies have established their regional headquarters in JAFZA to serve the wider Middle East region, including West Asia, the CIS, Africa, and the Indian Subcontinent.
Today, Jafza proudly stands as a dynamic base for thousands of businesses from over 100 countries, sustains more than 135,000 jobs and attracts 23.9% of Dubai’s foreign direct investment.
In 2003, Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) which manages one of the largest free zone in the region, promulgated JAFZA Offshore Companies Regulation which permits setting up of an offshore company.
- 100% Foreign Ownership
- Conducting business without corporate/personal taxes
- Conducting business as an international entity
- Open bank accounts locally and internationally
- Protecting investments in other foreign countries
- Easy transfer of capital and profits
- Complete anonymity and privacy
- Transfer of domiciliation of Continuation
- Can own property in Dubai & No requirement of local sponsor
- Conversion to JAFZA Free-zone is allowed
- Fast Incorporation & Re-domicile is allowed
Limitations of JAFZA Offshore Company:
- Cannot carry out business (or provide services) with a UAE based customer/supplier
- Cannot have a physical office
- Cannot sponsor UAE residence visas for employees/directors/shareholder
- Not entitled to tax residency certificate
JAFZA Offshore Setup Process:
Step 1:
Identify the propose structure and activity of the company
Step 2:
KYC and compliance checking
Step 3:
Apply in Dubai Trade Portal and preparation of documents
Step 4:
Payment of relevant fees to the authority
Step 5:
Signing and Filing of application forms with JAFZA Offshore Authority
Step 6:
JAFZA Criminal Investigation Department (CID) approval
Step 7:
JAFZA Offshore department approval for incorporation
Step 8:
Issuance of Certificate of Incorporation and MAA
Documents required for JAFZA Company Setup:
For Individual Directors, Shareholders and Ultimate Beneficial Owners:
- Passport and Visa page/ entry stamp in UA
- Original utility bill or local authority tax bill not older than 3 months old
- Bank Reference Letter not older than 3 months old
- CV/Profile
- Fatca Forms/UBO Declarations
For Corporate Shareholders (attested up to UAE MOFA):
- Company Documents (Certificate of Registration, MAA, Registers etc.)
- Certificate of Good Standing
- Certificate of Incumbency
- Attested Resolution approving the incorporation of the JAFZA Offshore Company
JAFZA Offshore Company Formation Cost:
JAFZA Incorporation fee is AED 10,040/- excluding Professional Fees and Annual registered agent fees on fulfillment of JAFZA requirements
How can GBS help?
Global Business Services FZCO is a professional organization that offers advisory, commercial, accounting, company formation & administration services in tax-efficient jurisdictions around the world. The team at GBS has, since its inception, developed an excellent understanding of corporate requirements. We are known in the market to provide a higher standard of company setup guidance – without higher costs. We provide a free consultation that will help answer every question you may have about setting up a company in the UAE.
For more information on JAFZA company formation, contact us today at +971 4 4471804 or email us at info@gbsei.com. Our team will be happy to assist you with the right guidance for your business setup requirements.
We have made every effort to keep the information accurate and up to date. However, this content is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal, tax, or professional advice. We recommend consulting a qualified advisor before making any business decisions.
