Fashion Design in Jebel Ali Free Zone for German nationals
Free ZoneProfessional

Fashion Design in JAFZA

Starting From

AED 16,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Fashion Design

The UAE continues to attract German entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and JAFZA is one of the most popular jurisdictions for fashion design operations. Strong German business community (~15,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Jebel Ali Free Zone gives your Fashion Design business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. The Fashion Design activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up fashion design businesses in Jebel Ali Free Zone since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why JAFZA for Fashion Design?

Choosing JAFZA for your fashion design business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers world's largest free zone, which is particularly valuable for fashion design operations. Additionally, direct access to jebel ali port ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 8,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 6 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Excellent logistics infrastructure further enhances the appeal of JAFZA for fashion design professionals. Furthermore, tax-free environment positions your fashion design business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, JAFZA remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For German nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large German business community.

World's largest free zone
Direct access to Jebel Ali Port
Excellent logistics infrastructure
Tax-free environment
Industrial facilities

Visa Requirements for German Nationals

German nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your fashion design licence is issued by JAFZA, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 10–17 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for German Business Owners

German nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong German-UAE trade relations facilitate banking processes. For your fashion design business in JAFZA, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving German business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Germany-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for German Nationals

German nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for fashion design), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to JAFZA.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Germany passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
6Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
7Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
8Passport-sized photographs with white background

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee16,000
Visa Package (per visa)5,000
Flexi Desk8,000
Shared Office15,000
Private Office40,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 29,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your fashion design business plan and the best JAFZA licence options for German nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Germany through German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the fashion design licence application to JAFZA. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official JAFZA trade licence within 5–8 business days.

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. German nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. German nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

7

Start Operations

Your fashion design business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. JAFZA allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including German nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your fashion design in JAFZA? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionJAFZA
TypeFree Zone
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 16,000
Setup Time5 days
Visa Quota6
Activity Code74120

Official Source

www.jafza.ae

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

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