WhatsApp quoteJAFZA is Jebel Ali — the world's largest free zone and gateway to global trade, and it has become one of the most practical choices for founders who want a UAE licence without a large upfront budget. 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. In short, pharmaceutical & Medical Supplies in JAFZA means importing and distributing medicines, medical devices and healthcare consumables, and it is licensed as a commercial activity. From day one, payments between Italy and the UAE are routine: the dirham is pegged to the dollar, euro (EUR) transfers settle fast and UAE banks are familiar with Italian business profiles.
Why JAFZA
Just as important, the authority permits Free Zone Establishment (FZE), Free Zone Company (FZCO), Branch and Public Company, which covers solo business owners, partnerships and overseas groups opening a UAE branch. JAFZA is located in Jebel Ali Port area, Dubai — adjacent to Jebel Ali Port (world's 9th busiest), and the authority's processing time for a standard file is around 10 working days.
How JAFZA works with GoldenKey
Step 1Consultation and activity selection
GoldenKey starts by confirming your activity is available in JAFZA, then agrees the licence category, visa quota and office option with you in writing.
Step 2Name reservation and initial approval
GoldenKey reserves your trade name with the JAFZA authority and obtains initial approval, generally within one to two working days. Nothing is submitted for opening a pharmaceutical trading company in the UAE as an Italian founder until you have reviewed and approved it.
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
Your JAFZA licence, certificate of incorporation and lease are issued, and we move straight on to the establishment card, visas and bank introduction. If the authority raises a query on opening a pharmaceutical trading company in the UAE as an Italian founder at this stage, we handle it the same day.
Documents required
Here is what you will need for opening a pharmaceutical trading company in the UAE as an Italian founder; GoldenKey checks every item before submission.
- A bank statement from your Italy bank for the last three months, which banks use to understand your profile
- 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
- Proof of address such as a utility bill or bank statement, requested by some zones
- A police clearance certificate from Italy if the activity or the Golden Visa category requires it
- Pharmacist licence
Pricing
Pricing for opening a pharmaceutical trading company in the UAE as an Italian founder depends on the package you choose; every option below includes GoldenKey's service and the government fees stated. Put simply, use the table below to compare packages for opening a pharmaceutical trading company in the UAE as an Italian 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
As a rule, english is the working language of business, contracts are routinely drafted in English, and government portals are bilingual, which simplifies opening a pharmaceutical trading company in the UAE as an Italian founder for international founders. In our experience, since 2021, most mainland activities have allowed 100% foreign ownership, and free zones have always offered it, so opening a pharmaceutical trading company in the UAE as an Italian founder no longer requires a local partner.
Why GoldenKey
GoldenKey's consultants have handled opening a pharmaceutical trading company in the UAE as an Italian founder for traders, consultants, tech company owners and family offices, which gives us a realistic view of what each authority approves quickly. Our office is a short drive from the Ajman Free Zone, Ajman DED and the immigration centre, so physical submissions for opening a pharmaceutical trading company in the UAE as an Italian founder happen the same day they are ready. GoldenKey is based in Ajman Free Zone and has helped founders from more than 60 countries with opening a pharmaceutical trading company in the UAE as an Italian founder, so the paperwork, approvals and timing hold no surprises for us.
Book a call with GoldenKey and we will confirm your eligibility, your costs and your next steps for opening a pharmaceutical trading company in the UAE as an Italian founder in a single conversation.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the JAFZA licence take?
Put simply, once your documents are complete, the authority typically issues the licence within 10 working days (Monday to Friday). Visas and bank account opening follow afterwards.
Can I open a UAE bank account with a JAFZA company?
Yes, JAFZA companies open accounts with UAE banks every day. Approval depends on the bank's compliance review of your profile, business plan and papers, and GoldenKey prepares the file and introduces you to a suitable bank.
How many visas can I get with a JAFZA licence?
Visa quota is tied to the package and office you choose. JAFZA packages typically start from a zero-visa option and scale to five or more visas with a physical office, and additional visas can be added later for the per-visa fee shown in our pricing.
Is pharmaceutical & medical supplies allowed in JAFZA?
Yes. Italians can own 100% of a pharmaceutical trading company in the UAE. {brand} recommends JAFZA for this activity and confirms any sector approvals before you commit.
Can a Italian citizen own 100% of a company in JAFZA?
Yes. Italians can own the full share capital of a JAFZA company with no local partner, exactly like any other nationality.
