BLOGS UAE Jebel Ali Freezone

JAFZA Service Companies List | License Application & Cost

Last updated on Jul 08, 2026
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The Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is a vast industrial zone and logistics hub in Dubai that houses more than 9,500 firms such as Nestle, Samsung, and FedEx. Learn how to get a service license from the Jebel Ali Free Zone, how to go through the setup steps, costs, and benefits to launch your service business in Dubai.

Introduction

For a long time, Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) has helped service-oriented companies wishing to expand in the UAE and the greater Middle East. The free zone witnessed an influx of IT firms, marketing agencies, consulting companies, and other service providers due to world-class infrastructure, easy access to ports and airports, and investor-friendly regulations.

Many entrepreneurs and investors often search for the term “Jebel Ali Free Zone company list” in hopes of identifying trusted service providers, partners, or industry benchmarks. Most of these companies share one link: the Jebel Ali Free Zone service license is what allows them to operate legally and gain access to the benefits of the free zone ecosystem.

In this guide, an overview of some of the top companies in JAFZA will be given, including what service license encompasses, requirements, and costs involved in acquiring a Jebel Ali Free Zone service license, hence joining this vibrant network.

What Is a Jebel Ali Free Zone Service License?

A Jebel Ali Free Zone service license is solely for companies that offer professional services rather than trading or manufacturing activities. Among the frequent service sectors are:

  • IT & software development
  • Digital marketing and media consultancy
  • Business and management consultancy
  • HR, project management, and logistics support

The service license in JAFZA, in contrast to trade and industrial licenses, is more tailored towards service-providing companies in the area of expertise, consultancy, and digital solutions.

Under the service license, most companies listed on the Jebel Ali Free Zone company list benefit from the full implication of this license in regard to 100% foreign ownership, market access, and operational flexibility.

What is the List of Companies in the Jebel Ali Free Zone? (Service Sector)

In the following summary, a few service providers available in JAFZA can be divided into three categories:

a. IT & Tech Services

Companies falling in this category would generally include:

  • Software Development Firms: Focused on custom applications, enterprise solutions, and mobile apps
  • Cybersecurity Providers: Protection against cyber threats, data breaches, and network security
  • System Integrators & Cloud Services: Implement IT infrastructure, ERP, and cloud migration solutions

Typically, representative companies in this category might find it beneficial to be in JAFZA, where they can enjoy free zone benefits to serve clients locally and globally with a Jebel Ali Free Zone service license.

b. Marketing & Media Services

This sector includes:

  • Digital Marketing Agencies: SEO, social media marketing, and online advertising
  • PR & Media Firms: Corporate communication, media strategy, and influencer marketing
  • Content & Creative Agencies: Branding, graphic design, and multimedia services

Marketing and media companies with a Jebel Ali Free Zone service license will benefit highly by locating in JAFZA, with accessibility to Dubai’s business hubs and its global clients.

c. Business & Management Consultancies

Examples may include, but are not limited to:

  • Business Setup Consultants: Assisting new startups in getting established in Dubai and the UAE
  • HR & Payroll Firms: Offering Recruitment, Payroll, and Compliance Solutions
  • Project Management Consultants: Consultancy services for large-scale projects

Arnifi assists enterprises in acquiring a JAFZA service license through its support in documentation, approval, and office setup processes; the client can now join the privileged and illustrious companies in Jebel Ali Free Zone.

CategoryKey ServicesJAFZA Benefit
IT & Tech ServicesSoftware development, cybersecurity, system integration, cloud servicesFree zone advantages and access to local & global clients
Marketing & Media ServicesDigital marketing, PR, branding, content creationStrategic location with connectivity to Dubai’s business hubs and international markets
Business & Management ConsultanciesBusiness setup, HR & payroll, project managementStrong demand for professional consulting services within the free zone
Arnifi SupportJAFZA service license, documentation, approvals, office setupSimplifies business setup and helps companies establish operations in JAFZA

What are the Benefits of Setting Up a Service Company in JAFZA?

Obtaining a service license at the Jebel Ali Free Zone has many advantages for service-oriented companies:

  • Access to Regional and International Markets: Operate seamlessly across GCC and beyond
  • 100% direct foreign ownership: Not needing any local sponsor
  • Free currency movement: There are no restrictions on international transactions
  • World-class infrastructure: Access to offices, co-working spaces, and digital-ready facilities
  • Scalability in business operations: Diverse visa options for employees and the flexibility to extend services
  • Corporate Tax Benefits: Under the UAE Corporate Tax regime, Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZPs) may benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, subject to meeting the conditions prescribed under the UAE Corporate Tax Law.
  • Advanced Digital Infrastructure: JAFZA provides digital business services, Smart Trade solutions, e-services, and integrated digital infrastructure to simplify licensing, customs, and business operations.

In this way, all these advantages make JAFZA the most desirable location for companies that want to be visible in the Jebel Ali Free Zone company list while enjoying all regulatory and operational advantages.

How to Get a Jebel Ali Free Zone Service License?

Get your Jebel Ali Free Zone service license in these steps:

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity

Identify the precise service activity: IT, marketing, consulting, HR, or other professional services; this should correspond to the list of approved activities by JAFZA.

Step 2: Select Your Company Structure

Options include:

  • FZCO (Free Zone Company): Multiple shareholders
  • FZE (Free Zone Establishment): Single shareholder
  • Branch of a Foreign or UAE Company

Step 3: Submit Application & Documents

Provide essential documentation such as:

  • Submission of relevant documentation listing:
  • Passport copies of shareholders
  • Business plan detailing service activities

Step 4: Obtain Initial Approval

JAFZA will review your submission to confirm eligibility for the service license.

Step 5: Sign Lease Agreement & Pay Fees

Lease office space (virtual or physical) within JAFZA & pay the related fee for the license.

Step 6: Receive Your Service License

After verification and payment, JAFZA serves the service license, which permits your company to operate legally and join the Jebel Ali Free Zone company list.

What is the Cost of a JAFZA Service License?

Below is an estimated cost breakdown:

ParticularsAmount (AED)
1 Year Trade License~5,000
MOAIncluded
Certificate of FormationIncluded
Share Percentage CertificateIncluded
Bank Account Opening AssistanceIncluded
Immigration Card (1 Year)~2,000
Registration Fees (One Time)~5,000
Visa Cost (2 Years)~2,678
Annual Lease (6 Sq.m) (Workstation Only)~35,000
10% Security Deposit (Refundable – One Time)~3,500
Insurance (Annual)~100
Name Plate (One Time)~500
Arnifi Service Fee~5,000
Total Price~58,778

Note: This is based on the initial review of the activity and is subject to change based on the Freezone Review.       

A trusted setup partner such as Arnifi is helpful in customizing packages and estimating the exact cost of the JAFZA business license, thereby ensuring a smooth application process.

How does Arnifi help with Business Setup?

Partnering with a consultant like Arnifi has many perks:

  • Simplified Setup Process: Full guidance from document preparation to after issuance of a license
  • License Type Selection: Ensures you get the right service license for your business activity at Jebel Ali Free Zone
  • Workspace & Visa Assistance: Advising on suitable office space and allocating visa quotas
  • Compliance & Timely Approvals: Mitigates the risk of application rejection and delays

With Arnifi as your partner, you will have the quickest option for having your service company up and running and on the prestigious Jebel Ali Free Zone company list.

FAQs

(Q) What type of companies are listed under a Jebel Ali Free Zone service license?

(A) Charges vary but average from AED 10,000 to 15,000 for the license, in addition to costs for the lease of offices and packages for visas.

(Q) How much does a JAFZA service license cost?

(A) Charges vary but average from AED 10,000 to 15,000 for the license, in addition to costs for the lease of offices and packages for visas.

(Q) Can I start an IT company in JAFZA under a service license?

(A) Yes, IT companies may operate through a Jebel Ali Free Zone service license, including software, cybersecurity, cloud services, etc.

(Q) Do I need a physical office in JAFZA for a service business?

(A) You can opt for virtual offices or smart offices depending on your business size and visa requirements.

(Q) What help does JAFZA Customer Service offer for visa and immigration cards?

(A) JAFZA Customer Service provides guidance on visa processing steps, required documents, timelines, and issuance of the Establishment Card (Immigration Card). They also clarify quota rules.

Conclusion

The Jebel Ali Free Zone business companies showcase Dubai’s booming services economy centered around the top IT firms, marketing agencies, and business consultancies. These companies are taking advantage of the JAFZA service license, which permits 100% foreign ownership and lifts barriers to market access and regulation for operating in Dubai and the rest of the world.

If you are willing to join this exclusive network, a Jebel Ali Free Zone service license is your ticket. Arnifi will guide you through the entire process from the selection of the right type of license to office setup so that your company gets into the vibrant Jebel Ali Free Zone company list in the most efficient and compliant manner.

Reference Links:

https://www.jafza.ae/business-setup/business-license/
https://tax.gov.ae/ar/default.aspx
https://www.jafza.ae/resource-centre/guides/apply-for-employment-visa-entry-permit/

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