Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority ( JAFZA )

1. Determine Business Activity: The first step is to determine the nature of your business activity. JAFZA accommodates various sectors, including trading, manufacturing, services, e-commerce, and more. Identifying your business activity will help you select the appropriate license and understand the requirements specific to your industry.

2. Choose a License Type: JAFZA offers different types of licenses tailored to meet the needs of diverse businesses. Consider the options available, such as Trading License, Industrial License, Service License, E-commerce License, National Industrial License, or Offshore License. Each license has its own requirements and benefits, so choose the one that best suits your business objectives.

3. Company Name Reservation: Select a unique and meaningful name for your company. Ensure that the name complies with JAFZA’s guidelines and does not infringe on any trademarks. Submit the proposed name to JAFZA for reservation. Once approved, the name will be reserved for your company for a specified period.

4. Prepare Required Documents: Gather the necessary documents to proceed with the company setup process. Commonly required documents include:
   • Passport copies of shareholders and directors
   • Proof of address for shareholders and directors
   • Business plan
   • Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)
   • Bank reference letter
   • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the current sponsor (for UAE residents)

5. Submit Application: Complete the application form provided by JAFZA, ensuring all information is accurate and complete. Attach the required documents and submit the application along with the applicable fees. JAFZA will review your application and documents for compliance.

6. Lease Agreement and Office Space: Once your application is approved, you will need to sign a lease agreement for office space within JAFZA. The authority offers a variety of options, including offices, warehouses, showrooms, and land for development. The lease agreement will specify the terms, duration, and rental costs.

7. Obtain Approvals and Licenses: After signing the lease agreement, you will need to obtain necessary approvals and licenses. This may include obtaining external approvals, such as those from relevant regulatory authorities or industry-specific bodies. Additionally, you will need to finalize your license application and pay the license fees to receive the official license.

8. Visa and Employee Sponsorship: If you plan to hire employees, you will need to apply for their visas and sponsorship through JAFZA. This process involves submitting the required documents for each employee, including passport copies, photographs, medical fitness certificates, and employment contracts.

9. Commence Operations: Once you have obtained the necessary licenses, approvals, and visas, you can commence your business operations within JAFZA. You will be able to access the facilities and services provided by the free zone, including banking services, utilities, telecommunications, and support from JAFZA’s business centers.

It is important to note that the specific requirements and procedures may vary based on the type of business, licensing regulations, and other factors. Consulting with a business setup consultant or JAFZA’s dedicated department can provide you with detailed guidance and ensure a smooth and successful setup process for your business in JAFZA.