What is JAFZA?
JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority) was established in 1985 and is one of the world’s largest and oldest free zones, home to 9,400+ companies from 140+ countries. JAFZA is located adjacent to Jebel Ali Port — the largest port in the Middle East and the 9th busiest in the world — giving JAFZA-based companies unmatched access to global shipping routes and logistics corridors.
JAFZA setup costs 2025
| License type | Setup cost (AED) | Annual fees |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial (flexi desk) | From 5,000 | ~4,800/yr |
| Service license | From 8,000 | ~7,500/yr |
| Warehouse (small) | From 45,000 | Varies by size |
| Industrial unit | From 85,000 | Varies by size |
Who should choose JAFZA?
JAFZA is the ideal UAE free zone for:
- Import-export traders — Direct port access means customs clearance and container handling at your doorstep
- Logistics and freight companies — Access to 100+ shipping lines and connections to DP World network
- Manufacturing businesses — Industrial units available with power, water, and waste management
- Large multinationals — JAFZA hosts companies like Amazon, BMW, Carrefour, and Coca-Cola
- Bonded warehouse operators — Store and re-export goods without UAE customs duty
JAFZA banking
JAFZA scores 8.4/10 for banking ease — the 5th highest in the UAE. Most major UAE banks have dedicated relationship managers for JAFZA companies. The port-adjacent, established nature of JAFZA gives it strong banking credibility.
Compare JAFZA against all other UAE free zones at ZoneWise or contact shubh24oct@gmail.com for a logistics/trading sector recommendation.