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Procedures for establishing a company in Jebel Ali – Dubai Free Zone

٢٢ مايو Procedures for establishing a company in Jebel Ali – Dubai Free Zone

The procedures for establishing a company in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) in Dubai are a strategic step for any investor seeking to benefit from the thriving business environment and advanced logistics facilities in the UAE. The free zone is characterized by providing world-class infrastructure, making it one of the main destinations for establishing businesses in the region. The procedures begin with choosing the appropriate type of company, whether it is a free zone company, a branch of a foreign or local company, or a joint stock company. This is followed by submitting the application and providing the required documents such as a copy of the passport and business plan, in addition to choosing the appropriate location and area for the company. Investors in Jebel Ali enjoy attractive incentives, such as 100% ownership of the company, tax exemptions, and easy access to global markets via Jebel Ali Port and the nearby airport. We will review many details about the procedures for establishing a company in Jebel Ali

Procedures

Advantages of establishing a company in Jebel Ali 

Establishing a company in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is of great importance to local and international investors due to the exceptional benefits the zone offers. Firstly, JAFZA offers 100% foreign ownership of companies, which means investors do not need a local partner. This gives them greater freedom to manage and expand their business. In addition, the zone is characterized by long-term tax exemptions on income and profits, which contributes to reducing costs and increasing investment returns. In addition, JAFZA provides the ease of transferring profits and capital abroad without any restrictions, which enhances the financial liquidity of companies.

Jebel Ali’s strategic location near Jebel Ali International Port and Airport makes it an important commercial gateway to global markets. The zone also offers advanced infrastructure and comprehensive logistical support, making it ideal for companies operating in the manufacturing and distribution sectors. Moreover, companies in Jafza enjoy a flexible and advanced business environment, thanks to simplified procedures for establishing companies and obtaining commercial licenses , in addition to continuous government support. All these factors make Jebel Ali a prime destination for investors looking to expand their businesses and achieve sustainable growth in the Middle East and beyond.

Procedures for establishing a company in Jebel Ali 

The procedures for establishing a company in the free zone (JAFZA) require following several main steps to ensure a smooth and legal establishment of the company. These steps include:

  1. Choosing the type of company: You can establish a free zone company (FZCO), a branch of a local or international company, or a joint stock company. The type of company should be determined based on the needs of the business.
  2. Submitting the application: The application for establishing the company is submitted through the Jafza website or through their offices. This step includes choosing the trade name and ensuring that it does not match other names.
  3. Providing documents: The required documents include copies of the passports of the shareholders and directors, the business plan, and a copy of the company’s articles of association (if it is a branch).
  4. Approval and Licensing: After reviewing the application and documents, Jafza grants initial approval. Once the fees are paid, the trade license is issued.
  5. Location Selection: Office or industrial space is rented in Jebel Ali Free Zone based on business needs.
  6. Opening a bank account: After receiving the license, a bank account must be opened in the company’s name to ensure the smooth running of financial transactions.
  7. These measures provide investors with the opportunity to benefit from many incentives such as tax exemptions, full ownership, and advanced infrastructure.

 

Free Zones in Dubai

Dubai’s free zones are among the world’s most prominent investment destinations, providing a flexible and advanced business environment that makes it easy for investors to establish companies and thrive in various sectors. Dubai includes many distinguished free zones, such as Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), Dubai Internet City, Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA), and others. These zones are distinguished by providing many economic incentives, such as 100% foreign ownership of companies, tax exemptions on income and profits, and the ease of transferring profits abroad without restrictions.

Dubai’s free zones are a major gateway to global markets thanks to the emirate’s strategic location and advanced infrastructure including ports and airports. In addition, the free zones offer integrated services such as business licensing, dedicated office spaces, and legal and administrative support services, making setting up and running a company easier and more flexible.

These zones promote investment freedom and economic development through their flexible laws that encourage innovation and diversity in business activities, making them an ideal choice for global and local companies looking to expand their businesses and reach new markets. Dubai’s free zones are a vital hub that supports its vision to be a global hub for business and investment.

Conditions for establishing a company in Jebel Ali

Establishing a company in Jebel Ali (JAFZA) requires meeting a number of conditions that ensure compliance with local laws and regulations. These conditions include:

  1. Company Type: The appropriate company type must be chosen according to the nature of the business, such as a free zone company (FZCO), a branch of a local or international company, or a joint stock company.
  2. Trade Name: The company must choose a trade name that is compatible with JAFZA laws and not similar to any previously registered name.
  3. Required documents: Submit a set of basic documents such as a copy of the passport of the shareholders and directors, the business plan, the articles of association and bylaws of the company, in addition to additional documents depending on the type of company.
  4. Capital: The required capital depends on the type of company. For FZCOs, the minimum capital is determined by the laws.
  5. Business Location: Office or industrial space must be rented within Jebel Ali Free Zone as per the company’s needs.
  6. Obtaining Approvals: Initial approval must be obtained from JAFZA based on the study of the application and the documents submitted.
  7. Opening a bank account: After receiving the license, a bank account must be opened for the company to ensure the facilitation of financial transactions.
  8. Licenses: After fulfilling the conditions and paying the fees, Jafza issues the commercial license that authorizes the company to practice its activity in the free zone.

Documents required to establish a company in Jebel Ali

To establish a company in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), an investor needs to submit a set of documents to ensure that the incorporation process is conducted legally and efficiently. The required documents include:

  1. Copy of Passport: Submit copies of passports of shareholders and directors of the company.
  2. Business Plan: A detailed business plan must be submitted that outlines the company’s objectives and the nature of the business activities that will be undertaken.
  3. Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association: If the company is a branch of another company or a joint stock company, a copy of the articles of association and memorandum of association of the parent company must be submitted.
  4. Trade Name: Choose the appropriate trade name and ensure that it is registered with JAFZA. The name must not be similar to any previously registered name.
  5. Personal Photos: Provide personal photos of shareholders and directors.
  6. Proof of address: Provide documents showing the current address of the shareholders or directors, such as a utility bill or lease.
  7. Approval from the competent authorities: For some private commercial activities, additional approvals from the competent or governmental authorities may be required.
  8. Signature form: Provide the official signature form to the authorized shareholders and directors of the company.
  9. After submitting these documents and completing the required procedures, the commercial license is issued that allows the company to operate in the Jebel Ali Free Zone.

In conclusion, establishing a company in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is a strategic move for any investor seeking to benefit from Dubai’s thriving business environment and unique economic incentives. The zone offers advanced infrastructure, an exceptional geographical location that connects global markets, simplified incorporation procedures and full foreign ownership. These factors make Jebel Ali an ideal platform for business growth and expansion in the Middle East and beyond. By establishing a company in JAFZA, investors can ensure a supportive and flexible business environment that enhances their chances of success and sustainability in today’s evolving business world.

Frequently asked questions about establishing a company in Jebel Ali

Can foreign investors own 100% of the company?

Yes, Jafza allows foreign investors 100% ownership without the need for a local partner.

Is there a minimum capital required to establish a company?

Yes, the minimum capital varies depending on the type of company chosen, especially for FZCO companies.

Does Jafza provide office spaces for companies?

Yes, Jafza provides a variety of office and industrial spaces for companies, depending on the business needs.

Can a company be established without having a physical presence in the UAE?

Yes, the company can be established remotely through electronic submission, but shareholders may be required to visit the UAE at some stages.