JAFZA Free Zone

JAFZA: A Global Business Platform in UAE

JAFZA Free Zone is an abbreviation of Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA). It is one of the oldest and most prominent free zones of the Emirates. It is strategically located near the Jebel Ali Port of Dubai. It is one of the most prestigious free zones in UAE, which is centrally located in Dubai. JAFZA Free Zone is one of the attractive options for intentional trade, manufacturing, trade, and commerce. It was formed back in 1985. It has attracted hundreds and thousands of companies from across the globe. This has immensely contributed to the UAE’s growth, success, and GDP.

UAE is home to state-of-the-art infrastructure and easy to commute for more than 3.5 billion consumers around Asia.  It is one of the most attractive places for investors from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

JAFZA Free Zone offers business-friendly policies to the companies and thus attracts several to establish their base in the region. It continues to be a preferred site for multinationals, entrepreneurs, and corporations.

It offers a wide range of advantages to the investors and companies who choose UAE over the others. JAFZA stands out among the other options in the UAE compared to the rest. It offers 100 percent foreign ownership to the investors.

They choose to retain full control over foreign ownership. The investors can easily retain control over business operations and activities without involving any local or UAE national partner.

Another added advantage is that there is no corporate tax imposed on companies registered with JAFZA Free Zone. The companies can benefit from tax exemption of personal and income tax along with corporation tax. Besides, they can be renewable after a period of 50 years.

JAFZA Free Zone is strategically located in proximity to Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport. It offers endless benefits to companies including seamless logistics and transportation options.

Due to proximity to Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport, they can enjoy custom privileges. It makes import, export, and trade much easier and more convenient for all stakeholders. It also streamlines the operations and customs clearance.

JAFZA Free Zone offers world-class infrastructures to companies with spacious and sophisticated warehousing, office spacing, and advanced logistics facilities.

JAFZA Free Zone offers a plethora of benefits in a business-friendly environment. Companies can take privilege from transparent regulations, lax rules, and seamless digital services.  This offers great support and makes things simpler. It improves the investor’s support and overall experience.

The benefits make JAFZA ideal for companies and businesses who are involved in trading, commerce, logistics, manufacturing, and shipping.

There are different kinds of business licenses available in JAFZA Free Zones. They accommodate a vast variety of commercial activities. It inculcates trade licenses, industrial license, service licenses, e-commerce licenses, and National industrial licenses.

A trading license is for the business attached to the export, import, storage, and distribution of goods or products. Industrial licenses are related to manufacturing or industrial activities.

Service license involves the companies who offer professional and consultancy services. An E-Commerce License includes online businesses who are engaged in e-trading. Besides, National Industrial License seekers are the companies that have a minimum of 51% GCC ownership. They also meet specific production specifications.

It is essential to understand which suits the business model. Here the role of lawyers in Dubai is crucial. They can assist the lawyers in Dubai are offering legal advice over the well-suited business model. It also provides useful legal insights for industrial regulations. They also play a role in fulfilling the licensing rules and regulations.

JAFZA accommodates a wide array of industries such as manufacturing, Logistics, transportation, assembly, trade and commerce, distribution and logistics, oil and gas, e-commerce, IT solutions, aerospace industries, and automotive.

JAFZA Free Zone supports a diverse range of industries, which makes it easier and simpler for different stakeholders. It makes things convenient and simpler for supplier, manufacturers, service providers, and exporters. It supports collaborations and encourages the expansion of operations while staying connected to the rest of the world.

JAFZA Free Zone permits various types of legal entities. Mainly, they are based on the investor’s structure and the main objectives. The Free Zone Establishment (FZE) is suitable for single shareholder entities.

On the other hand, a Free Zone Company (FZCO) is best for multiple shareholders including individuals or companies. The Public Listed Company can also register those who aim to publically trade in the UAE.

The Branch of a Foreign Company who desires to expand its operations within the UAE can also formally register.

Besides, the branch of a UAE Company allows existing local companies to operate in JAFZA. It is essential to select the right entity that impacts the company’s legal status and obligation. It also affects the investment structure.

The role of lawyers in Dubai is integral who can provide you with the legal guidance through the incorporation procedure.  They also provide invaluable pieces of guidance regarding compliance and regulations.

JAFZA free zone companies are mainly governed by a distinct legal framework. They should adhere to the UAE laws and rules including UAE commercial company law, UAE anti-money laundering laws AML, Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) regulations, UAE Economic Substance Regulations (ESR), and Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) specifications.

Anyone who is non-compliant with rules will lead to punitive measures which may result in hefty fines, suspension of license, blacklisting, or other serious punishments.  The lawyers in Dubai can assist the business according to the laws. Laws are complex and thus, professional assistance is critical.

They ensure businesses align with the evolving rules and regulations. They better handle corporate governance and conduct due diligence, especially during audits, reviews, and expansions. It is a strategic move for any business to begin its company with JAFZA. Lawyers in Dubai can help in selecting the right license and legal structure.

Besides, they help in drafting the incorporation documents along with reviewing the papers. They also comply it the relevant laws and regulations that support the mergers, acquisition, and restructuring in the longer run.