Holding Company in JAFZA
Starting From
AED 16,000
Setup Time
5 Business Days
Visa Quota
6 Visas
Location
Dubai
About Holding Company
Setting up a Holding Company business in Jebel Ali Free Zone offers a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to establish a strong presence in the UAE market.
As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Holding Company business will benefit from world's largest free zone and direct access to jebel ali port. The JAFZA licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 16,000.
With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your holding company setup in JAFZA. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.
Why JAFZA for Holding Company?
There are several compelling reasons why Jebel Ali Free Zone continues to attract holding company entrepreneurs from around the world.
The jurisdiction offers world's largest free zone, which is particularly valuable for holding company 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 holding company professionals. Furthermore, tax-free environment positions your holding company 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 financial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.
Requirements & Documents
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| License Fee | 16,000 |
| Visa Package (per visa) | 5,000 |
| Flexi Desk | 8,000 |
| Shared Office | 15,000 |
| Private Office | 40,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 29,000 |
* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.
Setup Timeline
Initial Consultation
Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your holding company business objectives, optimal licence structure, and JAFZA as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.
Choose Your Company Name
Select your company name and submit it for approval. JAFZA has specific naming guidelines — the name must not conflict with existing registrations and should reflect your business activity. IBA handles the name reservation process.
Prepare & Submit Documents
Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. As a non-regulated activity, the documentation requirements are straightforward. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.
Obtain Trade Licence
Your JAFZA trade licence is issued within 5 business days of document submission. The licence authorises you to conduct holding company activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 16,000.
Apply for Residence Visa
Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Your JAFZA licence includes 6 visa allocation. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,000. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.
Open Corporate Bank Account
With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.
Start Operations
With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your holding company business in Jebel Ali Free Zone is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.
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, with a valid trade licence from JAFZA, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.
Holding Company in Other Jurisdictions
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Official Source
www.jafza.ae ↗Popular in JAFZA
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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