Establishing a company in Jebel Ali

Dubai’s Jebel Ali district is considered one of the most attractive free economic zones in the world, combining a strategic location, advanced infrastructure and attractive government facilities, making it an ideal destination for entrepreneurs and investors from all over the world. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) was established in 1985 with the aim of promoting trade and industry in Dubai, and has since become a major business and industrial hub in the region. Establishing companies in Jebel Ali allows investors to benefit from many unique advantages, such as full foreign ownership of companies, tax exemption on personal and corporate income, and no restrictions on repatriating capital and profits abroad. In addition, Jafza provides a supportive business environment that includes advanced logistics facilities, banking and financial services, and legal and advisory services, facilitating the process of setting up a company in Jebel Ali and managing a business. The region also features the Jebel Ali Port, one of the world’s largest and busiest seaports, facilitating import and export operations and providing companies with direct access to global markets. In addition, the free zone’s proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport enhances mobility and fast shipping capabilities, making Jebel Ali an ideal gateway for companies wishing to expand internationally.

Establishing a company in Jebel Ali

Steps to establish a company in Jebel Ali

Establishing a company in Jebel Ali , like any free zone in Dubai, usually follows certain procedures. Here are general steps for establishing a company in Jebel Ali:

1. Determine the type of company: Decide on the type of company you want to establish, such as a private joint stock company, a public joint stock company, or a limited liability company, according to the needs and goals of your business.
2. Choosing a trade name: Choose a name for the company that complies with the emirate’s laws and legal standards, and make sure that the name is not already used by another company.
3. Location Determination: Determine the location of the company within the Jebel Ali area, considering the space required and the infrastructure available.
4. Identify a local partner: If the company is a limited liability company and includes a shareholding from an Emirati citizen, you must select a local partner who owns at least 51% of the company’s share.
5. Preparing the necessary documents: Collecting and preparing the documents required for registration, such as the official form for establishing the company, the partners’ agreement if required, passports and personal photos of the partners.
6. Submitting an application and registration: Submit a registration application to the Dubai Free Zones and Economic Zones Regulatory Authority (DED) or the competent authority in the Jebel Ali region, submitting the required documents and paying the approved fees.
7. Obtaining the necessary licenses: After approval of the registration, you obtain the necessary licenses to start business operations, such as a company license and licenses for the specific business activity.
8. Open a bank account: Open a bank account in the company’s name to manage financial transfers and daily financial operations.
9. Social and labor insurance: Register the company with government agencies to ensure compliance with local labor and social insurance laws for employees.
10. Commercial Insurance: Subscribe to the necessary commercial insurance to protect the company from potential risks.

Costs of setting up a company in Jebel Ali

Establishing a company in the Jebel Ali area of ​​Dubai requires a budget that depends on several factors, including the type of company and the activity you choose. Here are approximate costs that may be inevitable:

• Company incorporation fees: Varies depending on the type of company (such as a limited liability company or a branch company).
• Commercial license costs: vary depending on the company’s activity and location within the free zone.
• Office rental costs: Companies in the UAE must obtain an office or work space within the free zone.
• Administrative services fees: related to administrative services provided by the free zone, such as support and management services.
• Labor Costs: If you plan to hire employees, you should consider payroll and fringe benefits costs.
• Additional service costs: such as logistics and shipping, depending on the nature of your business.

Types of companies that I can establish in Dubai

In Dubai, you can establish several types of companies to suit your needs and business requirements. Among the common types:

1. Limited Liability Company (LLC): This company consists of partners who have limited liability for the company’s debts. There must be a primary capital shareholder.
2. Sole Proprietorship: Managed by only one person, who bears full responsibility for the company and its debts.
3. Limited Liability Company – LLC: This company consists of only one person who can also be a shareholder and a director.
4. Subsidiary Company: This company is part of an existing parent company, operates under its management and follows the laws of the parent company.
5. Joint Stock Company: In which shares are distributed to shareholders, with the possibility of publicly trading them in the financial markets.
6. Branch of a Foreign Company: Allows foreign companies to expand their activity to Dubai without establishing an independent company.

Documents required to establish a company in Jebel Ali

Setting up a company in the Jebel Ali area of ​​Dubai typically requires the following documents:

1. Registration application form: contains company information such as name, type and proposed activities.
2. Form of Company Intent (MOA): It is a document that defines the company’s activities, organizational structure, and partners’ rights.
3. Passports of partners and directors: Certified copies of passports for each partner and the appointed directors.
4. Recent personal photos of partners and managers: Recent personal photos of each partner and managers.
5. Proof of address: Proof of the business’s location is usually required, such as a lease agreement or a confirmation letter from the landlord.
6. Authorization of a legal representative (if any): If another person is authorized to represent the company in legal transactions.
7. Bank Support Letter: Requires confirmation from the local bank regarding the required capital for the company.
8. Certificate of good conduct and ethics for managers: The certificate reflects the previous behaviors of managers and partners in the business.

Permits required to establish a company in Jebel Ali

Establishing a company in the Jebel Ali area of ​​Dubai , you usually need to obtain several permits and licenses that vary depending on the company’s activity and type. Matters that may require permits include:

• Commercial license: This represents the official approval to practice a specific activity in the Jebel Ali Free Zone.
• Building permit (if required): If you plan to build a production, warehousing or logistics business, you may need a building permit.
• Environmental and Health Permit: You may need a permit proving compliance with health, safety and environmental standards, especially if your activities require the handling of hazardous materials or environmental impacts.
• Transport and storage licenses: If you intend to store or transport goods, you may need special permits for this, according to the requirements of the free zone.
• Labor Permits: You must comply with local labor laws and obtain the necessary work permits for the employees you intend to hire.
• Advertising and Marketing License: You may need a license to conduct advertising or marketing campaigns within the free zone.

In conclusion, establishing a company in Jebel Ali is considered a successful investment step that provides investors with important opportunities in the active business market in Dubai. Thanks to the advanced infrastructure and government facilities available, Jebel Ali provides an ideal environment for companies to grow and expand their business.

Establishing a company in Jebel Ali requires adherence to specific procedures and conditions, such as obtaining the necessary licenses and submitting the required documents. However, the benefits available make it an attractive investment destination, as investors can benefit from the freedom to own land and partner with local partners.

Thanks to its excellent geographical location, Jebel Ali provides opportunities to easily access regional and global markets, and promotes international trade. It also has an excellent infrastructure, including ports, airports and highways, which supports smooth operations and distribution.

The most important frequently asked questions about setting up a company in Jebel Ali