Dubai’s Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) is celebrating 40 years of pioneering trade, investment, and industrial innovation, having attracted over \$30 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) and generated more than 1 million jobs since its inception. As DP World’s flagship free zone, Jafza stands as a cornerstone of the UAE’s economic transformation.
Having begun in 1985 with 19 companies, Jafza today hosts more than 9,500 firms from over 130+ countries, fulfilling a pivotal function in Dubai as a global trading and logistics center. Its close proximity to the Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport has been crucial to its continuous growth.
The success of the Jafza ecosystem has seen its model replicated in 11 free zones across the globe, testament to its ability to lure international businesses, stimulate innovation, and promote ease of doing business. The zone provides state-of-the-art infrastructure, smart services, and regulatory facilitation adapted to various industries.
As Jafza celebrates 40 years since its inception, DP World once again commits itself to economic diversification, creating jobs, and connecting the world. The landmark testifies to Dubai’s foresight and persistence in creating a successful, investor-friendly business landscape.
