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 straightforward renewal process. GoldenKey has guided hundreds of entrepreneurs through JAFZA company formation, from name reservation to the moment the licence PDF lands in their inbox. Put simply, irish nationals are a lively community of more than 10,000, strong in aviation leasing, construction, education and hospitality, so the JAFZA authority, the banks and the immigration officers see Irish applications every day and process them without hesitation. Free zone traders can import duty-free into the zone and re-export without paying UAE customs duty, and that is why Jebel Ali and Sharjah zones dominate this activity. Selling into the UAE mainland triggers 5% duty.
Why JAFZA
Importantly, one of the reasons our advice is to choose JAFZA is its world's largest port-adjacent free zone, which matters more than most business owners realise once the business is running. Crucially, 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.
How JAFZA works with GoldenKey
Step 1Consultation and activity selection
Crucially, in the first call we check that JAFZA lists your activity, settle the licence type and match the visa package and office to what you actually need.
Step 2Name reservation and initial approval
We submit your preferred trade names to JAFZA and secure initial approval, normally within a day or two of submission. This is also the point at which we answer any question specific to opening an import-export business in the UAE as an Irish founder.
Step 3Document submission and payment
You sign the application and memorandum, we file the attested paperwork with JAFZA and the authority's licence fee is paid.
Step 4Licence issued and next steps
JAFZA issues the licence, incorporation certificate and lease; from there we open the establishment card, process visas and arrange your bank introduction. Nothing is submitted for opening an import-export business in the UAE as an Irish founder until you have reviewed and approved it.
Documents required
Gather these papers and GoldenKey will take care of the rest of opening an import-export business in the UAE as an Irish founder.
- Educational certificates attested by the Ireland authorities and the UAE embassy, for professional activities
- A police clearance certificate from Ireland if the activity or the Golden Visa category requires it
- Your current residency visa and Emirates ID copy if you are a UAE resident
- A passport issued by Ireland with at least six months' validity
- A passport-size photograph on a white background
- A clear passport copy for each shareholder and manager, valid for at least six months
Pricing
All prices for opening an import-export business in the UAE as an Irish founder are indicative, shown in AED and confirmed in writing before you pay. Put simply, use the table below to compare packages for opening an import-export business in the UAE as an Irish founder; 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
The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997, which removes currency risk for opening an import-export business in the UAE as an Irish founder and makes international pricing simple. Residence visas for owners and families come with the company, which makes opening an import-export business in the UAE as an Irish founder a route to relocation as well as a business decision.
Why GoldenKey
For most clients, our quotations for opening an import-export business in the UAE as an Irish founder list every government fee and our service fee on one page, in writing, before you pay anything. GoldenKey's consultants have handled opening an import-export business in the UAE as an Irish founder for traders, consultants, tech business owners and family offices, which gives us a realistic view of what each authority approves fast. Our office is a short drive from the Ajman Free Zone, Ajman DED and the immigration centre, so physical submissions for opening an import-export business in the UAE as an Irish founder happen the same day they are ready.
Tell us about your plans for opening an import-export business in the UAE as an Irish founder and GoldenKey will come back to you shortly with a clear price, a document checklist and a realistic timeline.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to visit the UAE to set up in JAFZA?
Most JAFZA licences can be granted 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 residency visa is processed.
How long does the JAFZA licence take?
Day to day, once your documents are complete, the authority as a rule issues the licence within 10 working days. Visas and bank account opening follow afterwards.
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 in most cases, 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.
Is import & export allowed in JAFZA?
Yes. Irish nationals can own 100% of an import-export business in the UAE. {brand} recommends JAFZA for this activity and confirms any sector approvals before you commit.
Is there a double taxation agreement between Ireland and the UAE?
Absolutely. The UAE and Ireland have a double taxation agreement, and a UAE tax residency certificate lets you claim treaty relief on qualifying income. GoldenKey can obtain the certificate once your company is established.
