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General Trading in JAFZA

Import, export, re-export and wholesale of a broad range of goods under one licence

GoldenKey has guided hundreds of entrepreneurs through JAFZA company formation, from name reservation to the moment the licence PDF lands in their inbox. Founders choose JAFZA when they want a credible UAE address, fast licensing and packages that scale from a solo flexi-desk to a multi-visa office. GoldenKey has licensed general trading company businesses for clients in JAFZA and knows which sub-activities to list so you are not asked to amend the licence later. Typical examples of this activity include electronics, building materials, FMCG, furniture and spare parts, which can usually sit together on one JAFZA licence.

Why JAFZA

Unlike some zones, JAFZA does not require a large paid-up capital to be blocked in a bank account before the licence is issued. Established 1985 — the world's largest man-made port-based free zone. For general trading, 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

  1. Step 1: Consultation and activity selection
    Step 1

    Consultation 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.

  2. Step 2: Name reservation and initial approval
    Step 2

    Name reservation and initial approval

    GoldenKey reserves your trade name with the JAFZA authority and obtains initial approval, usually within one to two working days. For general trading in JAFZA, GoldenKey completes this stage with you on WhatsApp or by email.

  3. Step 3: Document submission and payment
    Step 3

    Document submission and payment

    You sign the application and memorandum, we file the attested paperwork with JAFZA and the registrar's licence fee is paid.

  4. Step 4: Licence issued and next steps
    Step 4

    Licence issued and next steps

    Your JAFZA licence, certificate of incorporation and lease are granted, and we move straight on to the establishment card, visas and bank introduction. This is also the point at which we answer any question specific to general trading in JAFZA.

Documents required

The document list for general trading in JAFZA is short, and most clients already have everything on it.

  • Attested parent-company paperwork and a board resolution if the shareholder is a company
  • A clear passport copy for each shareholder and manager, valid for at least six months
  • A no-objection certificate from your employer if you hold a UAE employment visa
  • The UAE entry stamp or visa page if you are already in the country
  • Your current UAE residence visa and Emirates ID copy if you are a UAE resident
  • A short business plan or activity description for certain professional activities

Pricing

Pricing for general trading in JAFZA depends on the package you choose; every option below includes GoldenKey's service and the government fees stated. Use the table below to compare packages for general trading in JAFZA; we will confirm the exact total for your case in a written quotation.

Pricing available on request — message us for a written quotation.

Why the UAE

Since 2021, most mainland activities have allowed 100% foreign ownership, and free zones have always offered it, so general trading in JAFZA no longer requires a local partner. The UAE's reputation as a trading hub means international clients and suppliers already trust a UAE licence, which shortens sales cycles for general trading in JAFZA.

Why GoldenKey

As we tell every client, our office is a short drive from the Ajman Free Zone, Ajman DED and the immigration centre, so physical submissions for general trading in JAFZA happen the same day they are ready. GoldenKey's consultants have handled general trading in JAFZA for traders, consultants, tech entrepreneurs and family offices, which gives us a realistic view of what each authority approves quickly. In practice, every JAFZA package we quote already includes the licence, registration, the establishment card where applicable and our full assistance, with no hidden add-ons at the end.

Prefer to visit? Our Ajman office welcomes walk-ins during working hours, and we can also meet you in Dubai or Sharjah by appointment to discuss general trading in JAFZA.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the JAFZA licence take?

Day to day, once your documents are complete, the licensing authority typically issues the licence within 10 working days. Visas and bank account opening follow afterwards.

Do I need to visit the UAE to set up in JAFZA?

To be clear, most JAFZA licences can be issued 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.

Can a JAFZA company do business on the UAE mainland?

A JAFZA company can sell to mainland customers through a mainland distributor, invoice services to mainland clients generally, and apply for a dual-licence arrangement where the emirate offers one. Direct retail or on-site contracting on the mainland needs a mainland licence.

Which licence type covers general trading?

General Trading is classified as a commercial activity, and GoldenKey selects the exact activity code so your licence matches what you actually do.

Is general trading allowed in JAFZA?

Yes. General Trading is an available activity in {ent}, and {brand} lists the exact sub-activities on your licence. No special approval for standard goods; customs code required to physically import.

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