Jebel Ali Free Zone, also known as JAFZA, is the largest free economic zone globally and accounts for more than 23% of Dubai's GDP. Situated in Jebel Ali on the coastal side of the city, it borders Abu Dhabi and is located along Sheikh Zayed Road (E11). Covering an area of 57 sq. km., JAFZA provides convenient access to the Dubai Metro Red Line.
JAFZA has grown significantly from its humble beginnings as a small office and warehouse hub. This area now accommodates more than 8,000 multinational firms, providing employment opportunities for over 130,000 people worldwide. In addition to industrial units and warehouses, JAFZA also supports retail and e-commerce businesses while offering on-site accommodations for employees. Furthermore, this region provides ample trading prospects for companies operating within its borders.
Upon commencing a business in JAFZA, entrepreneurs may peruse the emphasized characteristics provided within the locale.
The Jebel Ali Freezone Area is a flourishing hub for commerce, with a focus on meeting the requirements of manufacturers and traders. This community comprises an international workforce exceeding 135k individuals from diverse backgrounds, serving as home to some of the most prosperous businesses globally. The range of services available in this area is extensive, encompassing premium lodgings at hotels, supermarkets, numerous cafes and restaurants offering cuisine from various regions around the globe as well as currency exchange centres and insurance providers amongst other amenities.
The Jebel Ali Freezone Area accommodates over 8,000 companies primarily housed in commercial buildings. These structures host a diverse range of enterprises such as manufacturing, trade, logistics, and various industrial and service-oriented sectors. Located alongside the Jebel Ali port, several leading logistics and shipping businesses operate within JAFZA's bounds.
In the vicinity, there exist numerous land plots complete with infrastructure, ready for construction. The office spaces range from a minimum of 40 square feet to as spacious as 500 square feet. While no properties are available for immediate purchase, affordable housing options are readily accessible in the area for accommodating employees.
In the Jebel Ali Freezone, there are various commercial properties available for rent such as Labour camps, warehouses and factories. Additionally, fully-fitted and furnished office units can also be rented out. The rent of these offices varies depending on their floor space.
Jebel Ali Freezone harbors a trio of hotels, including two luxurious 5-star accommodations alongside a single 3-star establishment. These establishments are named:
Both the JA Palm Tree Court and JA Beach Hotel hold a 5-star rating. The latter provides access to over 235 guest rooms, as well as an exclusive beachline, more than 25 dining outlets, and various activities such as golfing, archery, and watersports.
Jebel Ali Freezone provides parking facilities for all types of buildings, be it a commercial or residential property.
With its direct link to Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), Jebel Ali Free Zone boasts a well-connected network of streets that conveniently lead to several bus stations. These include the centrally located Gulf Denims Limited bus station, Jebel Ali Bus Station, and Jebel Ali Freezone Roundabout bus stop.
Jebel Ali Freezone is a prominent residential area that is situated close to the recently launched Route 2020. The Jebel Ali Metro Station, being one of the four initial stations on this route, also adds to its reputation as a desirable location for living.
The inhabitants of this region can reach three metro stations, namely UAE Exchange Metro station, Danube Subway station and Energy Metro station, as the community lies at the endpoint of the red metro line.
When it comes to doing big grocery shopping trips in Jebel Ali Freezone, Carrefour is the go-to supermarket. Beyond that, there are several other options for people to choose from when looking for supermarkets, minimarts and duty-free shops. Sultan Hypermarket, Suncity Supermarket, Star City Supermarket and Parco Supermarket are just a few examples of these additional choices available in the area.
The locality has numerous mosques that offer convenient prayer options near workplaces, including Jebel Ali Mosque, Masjid Al Rahmah, Masjid Al Noor, JAFZA South Accommodation Mosque and various others.
Given that Jebel Ali Freezone is a global hub, there are several churches and temples in close proximity to Jebel Ali Village. These include St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Convent Hope Church and Evangelical Christian Church of Dubai, which can be reached within 15 minutes by car. Additionally, the Guru Nanak Darbar Sikh gurudwara is located in Jebel Ali Village while Khodiyar Temple can be found in the Free Zone area.
There exist a few choices of preschools in the vicinity. These comprise:
There are several high schools located in close proximity to Jebel Ali Free Zone Area.
Numerous prestigious schools are situated near the vicinity, including The Arbor School in Al Furjan which provides the National Curriculum for England from Foundation Stage until Year 7. Additionally, Nikon School is also located in the area and caters to individuals who wish to pursue a career or improve their photography proficiency.
Medical facilities in proximity to Jebel Ali Freezone comprise of clinics and hospitals.
In case of an emergency, there are several clinics nearby including Care Blue Clinic, Noor Al Shefa Clinic and NMC Poly Clinic. The closest multi-speciality hospital is Aster Cedars Hospital which can be reached within 15 minutes. Additionally, the renowned hospitals of NMC Hospital in DIP and Aster Cedars are both around 20-minutes away and known for their exceptional services.
Situated at the southern edge of Dubai's shoreline, Jebel Ali Free Zone Area runs parallel to Sheikh Zayed Road (E11).
The district is accompanied by Palm Jebel Ali, the biggest marine terminal in the Middle East. There are also coastal apartment buildings nearby. Moreover, Jebel Ali Village serves as a residential area for expats and workers of neighbouring regions along with Downtown Jebel Ali which is situated just across the highway.
Dubai Investment Park, Ghantoot, and Al Barsha are among the well-liked locations in close proximity to Jebel Ali.
There are nearby shopping locations in the community, such as notable malls that can be found near Jebel Ali Freezone Area.
To enjoy some socializing outdoors and do some shopping, consider checking out Ibn Battuta Mall or Jebel Ali Mall. At Ibn Battuta Mall, you can admire the lively themes and catch a movie on the IMAX screen. Additionally, it's home to popular fashion names like Aldo, Sephora, and Steve Madden.
There's a diverse selection of dining establishments in Jebel Ali Free Zone Area for those who appreciate good food, including:
For those who enjoy Italian cuisine, La Mensa restaurant in Downtown Jebel Ali comes highly recommended. Situated with picturesque waterfront views and outdoor seating, this establishment is the top-rated choice in its vicinity. Wadi Al Arayesh provides a relaxed dining environment and serves an array of Middle Eastern fare ranging from Arabian to Lebanese dishes. Alternatively, Eat N Stay offers Indian and South Indian cuisines for those looking to explore some new flavors.
White Orchid, located in Jebel Ali Palm, is an upscale eatery that offers a selection of delectable Asian dishes. Guests who reserve ahead can indulge in the lavish dining experience provided by White Orchid, which also boasts an extensive bar menu.
Being situated near the coast, Jebel Ali boasts a variety of beaches. The region features Lama Beach and XO Beach, both providing stunning vistas and shaded huts. Additionally, Marina Beach is a bustling beach destination with numerous water sports activities to enjoy.
There are some recreational destinations and significant landmarks in close proximity to the region.
Limited entertainment options are available for employees of the Free Zone and local residents. In close proximity is Dubai Parks and Resorts, which includes three theme parks and a water park. Hollywood-themed Motiongate Dubai and Bollywood Parks, featuring popular Bollywood movies and characters, are major draws. Legoland Dubai and Legoland Waterpark also offer notable attractions for nearby inhabitants.
Another option is to visit the Jebel Ali Shooting Club, where you can satisfy your need for excitement and partake in a range of exhilarating pursuits.
The vicinity boasts several community and theme parks as outdoor attractions. Among them is Bollywood Parks Dubai, a park with an exotic theme located just 14 minutes away from JAFZA. Jebel Ali Recreational Centre, which offers numerous green spaces, is also nearby and can be reached within 10 minutes by car. Moreover, the recreation center houses the Jebel Ali Recreational Club where you can participate in various live sports activities, have access to a gym and pool facility, different courts for sports like tennis or basketball and dine at several outlets available.
Given that the vicinity is predominantly commercial, there is a high demand for fitness options. Enthusiasts residing in the area have access to several gyms, such as Fine Fit Gym-2 Golden Taj Jafza, The Warehouse Gym and The Marina Gym.
To tend to your personal appearance, neighboring salons like Bellissima Salon and Beauty Avenue Ladies Salon are available.
This district is primarily focused on commerce but has convenient transport links to residential areas. Within the vicinity lies Jebel Ali Village, which provides affordable housing options for those seeking low-cost accommodations. Nevertheless, within the immediate area, there's a scarcity of spacious flats or villas suitable for large families.
The Jebel Ali Freezone sector provides living quarters exclusively for its staff members. For those who are only visiting, it is recommended to reserve a lodging in one of the neighboring hotels.