WhatsApp quoteIf you are weighing up where to register in the UAE, JAFZA deserves a close look for its world's largest port-adjacent free zone and uncomplicated renewal process. JAFZA combines world's largest port-adjacent free zone with the flexibility to add activities and visas later, and that is why it suits both first-time founders and established groups. Typical examples of this activity include payment gateway tech, BNPL platform, wealth-tech app and regtech, which can usually sit together on one JAFZA licence. GoldenKey has licensed fintech company businesses for clients in JAFZA and knows which sub-activities to list so you are not asked to amend the licence later.
Why JAFZA
Just as important, office options in JAFZA range from office suite, showroom, warehouse, factory, bulk liquid facility or open yard, so you only pay for the space your visa quota actually needs. As we tell every client, dP World logistics ecosystem integration. For fintech & payments, JAFZA offers the office options such a business actually needs and a visa quota that can grow with the team.
How JAFZA works with GoldenKey
Step 1Consultation and activity selection
We confirm that your activity is available in JAFZA, choose the licence type and agree the visa package and office option that match your plan.
Step 2Name reservation and initial approval
GoldenKey reserves your trade name with the JAFZA authority and obtains initial approval, usually within one to two working days. This is also the point at which we answer any question specific to fintech & payments in JAFZA.
Step 3Document submission and payment
You sign the application forms and memorandum, we submit the attested documents and the licence fee is paid to the issuing authority.
Step 4Licence issued and next steps
Crucially, once the JAFZA licence and company documents are released, we move immediately to the immigration file, residence visas and the bank meeting. Nothing is submitted for fintech & payments in JAFZA until you have reviewed and approved it.
Documents required
To be clear, gather these paperwork and GoldenKey will take care of the rest of fintech & payments in JAFZA.
- A no-objection certificate from your employer if you hold a UAE employment visa
- Product description
- A passport-size photograph on a white background
- Your current residence visa and Emirates ID copy if you are a UAE resident
- Attested parent-company supporting documents and a board resolution if the shareholder is a company
- Proof of address such as a utility bill or bank statement, requested by some zones
Pricing
All prices for fintech & payments in JAFZA are indicative, shown in AED and confirmed in writing before any payment. Pricing for fintech & payments in JAFZA depends on the package you choose; every option below includes GoldenKey's service and the government fees stated.
Pricing available on request — message us for a written quotation.
Why the UAE
There are no restrictions on repatriating profits or capital, so earnings from fintech & payments in JAFZA can be moved to your home country or reinvested freely. Importantly, residence visas for owners and families come with the company, which makes fintech & payments in JAFZA a route to relocation as well as a business decision.
Why GoldenKey
For most clients, after your JAFZA licence is issued, the same team handles renewals, visa additions, amendments and tax registrations, so you never have to explain your business twice. We speak the languages our clients speak, including English, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu and Malayalam, and we can arrange Russian, French and Mandarin support for fintech & payments in JAFZA. As we tell every client, you deal with one named case manager from the first call until your JAFZA licence, visa and bank introduction are complete, and that consultant answers your WhatsApp messages personally.
Crucially, book a call with GoldenKey and we will confirm your eligibility, your costs and your next steps for fintech & payments in JAFZA in a single conversation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to visit the UAE to set up in JAFZA?
In our experience, most JAFZA licences can be released remotely with scanned documents and a signed power of attorney. You will need to enter the UAE for the medical test and Emirates ID biometrics when your UAE residence visa is processed.
How long does the JAFZA licence take?
Crucially, once your documents are complete, the licensing authority typically issues the licence within 10 working days. Visas and bank account opening follow afterwards.
What is the difference between an FZE and an FZCO in JAFZA?
An FZE has one shareholder and an FZCO has two or more. Both offer limited liability and 100% foreign ownership, and the fees in JAFZA are usually the same.
Which licence type covers fintech & payments?
From day one, fintech & Payments is classified as a professional activity, and GoldenKey selects the exact activity code so your licence matches what you actually do.
Is fintech & payments allowed in JAFZA?
Yes. Fintech & Payments is an available activity in {ent}, and {brand} lists the exact sub-activities on your licence. CBUAE, DFSA (DIFC) or FSRA (ADGM) for regulated activity.
