JAFZA Offshore Company Setup

Are you searching for the right place to establish your company? The Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is a top choice for many entrepreneurs from across the globe. With the relevant authorities providing the best facilities, tax incentives and business-friendly policies, Dubai is a preferred destination for entrepreneurs like you.

If you wish to set up a business in JAZFA, it is essential to understand details related to company setup and things like benefits, involved costs and others. We will provide you with all the information required to proceed with JAFZA offshore company setup.

About Jebel Ali Free Zone 

Jebel Ali Free Zone, established in 1985, is the largest freezone in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It hosts over 9000 companies, many of which are Fortune Global 500 companies. For setting up an offshore company in Jebel Ali FZ, you are allowed to conduct business operations internationally. A certificate of incorporation would be provided for company registration in JAFZA. One reason for the rapid growth of JAFZA is the fact that it is located beside Jebel Ali Port and is in close proximity to Dubai’s airports.
 

Benefits of JAFZA Offshore Company Formation

When deciding on a JAFZA offshore company, it is important to explore the advantages of JAFZA offshore company formation. Let us take a look at them:

  1. Complete Foreign Ownership 

For setting up a freezone or offshore company in Jebel Ali free zone,  entrepreneurs can enjoy complete foreign ownership and repatriation of capital. You need to opt for a business structure as per the business objectives. This can help with determining ownership, responsibilities, and liability, among others.

  1. Streamlined Business Incorporation

A JAFZA offshore company formation is quite simple. There are specific authorities that handle the involved procedures to ensure hassle-free business registration within two weeks.

  1. Full Repatriation of Profits Allowed

Company formation in JAFZA enables you to transfer the entire profit back to the home country. This flexibility allows companies to conduct international business operations in a hassle-free manner.

  1. Choice of Licenses

You can opt among  a  number of licenses when setting up a JAFZA offshore company. It includes trade, industrial, general trading, service, and e-commerce licenses. The legal document enables you to engage in a number of business activities.

  1. Tax Incentives

Saving up on taxes is a major advantage as it allows businesses to reinvest their profits for business expansion. Companies established in JAFZA are exempt from corporate and personal tax, while VAT of 5 per cent is imposed.

  1. Asset Protection

As a business owner, it is crucial to protect assets from creditors. By setting up a business in JAFZA, you can benefit from asset protection regulations. It enables you to keep personal assets separate from business liabilities, providing added security against potential claims or financial risks.

Conditions to Fulfil for Company Setup in Jebel Ali Free Zone

When it comes to company incorporation in JAFZA, certain conditions must be adhered to. Let us take a look at them:

  • You must appoint a minimum of one shareholder for the company. It can be an individual or a business entity. 
  • A secretary who holds an Emirates ID needs to be hired. They are tasked with official and legal work, maintaining company records and ensuring that the set rules and regulations are followed. 
  • As the director plays an important role in the administration and functioning of the company, there must be one or more directors. 
  • You must maintain records accurately at all times and get them checked by a certified auditor, as there can be a sudden inspection. The records should include information for a period of 10 years. If you need any help, Commitbiz can help as we offer accounting and bookkeeping services.
     

How to Proceed with Business Setup in JAFZA?

The process of establishing your company in JAFZA is simple. Follow the steps mentioned below to incorporate the business.

Step 1: You must prepare a list of names for the company and submit it to the authorities. The authorities will review the names and issue approval for the selected company name.

Step 2: Submit the duly filled application form to the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority.

Step 3: Prepare all the necessary documents and submit them to the authorities. The Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA) must contain information about the company,  shareholders, and the rules.

Step 4: Pay the requisite fees to the authorities.

Step 5: Open a bank account in any of the international banks available in the free zone.
 

Documents Required for JAFZA Offshore Company Setup 

The documents that must be submitted to the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority are mentioned below -

  • Address proof 
  • Passport copies of all shareholders
  • Credential letter from the bank
  • Information of all shareholders
     

What is the Cost of Establishing a Business in JAFZA?

The cost of JAFZA offshore company formation depends on various factors. These include the fees paid for the incorporation certificate, document authorization, application form, bank registration, and service provider, among others.

If you wish to protect your assets and investments while engaging in international business operations, then setting up a business in JAFZA can be an ideal choice. Contact our team of business setup consultants to learn more about the Jebel Ali Free Zone and offshore company setup. We have played a major role in guiding entrepreneurs like you when it comes to establishing a business in the UAE. We would be glad to assist you in your entrepreneurial journey.

FAQs

Can an offshore entity rent office space in the UAE?

As offshore companies can only operate internationally, renting an office space in the UAE is not possible.

How long will it take to receive the offshore company registration certificate?

The company registration process usually takes around two weeks.

Is it possible to incorporate a business in the Jebel Ali offshore remotely?

No, that is not a possibility as the physical presence of the partners is necessary.