DIFC vs JAFZA
Dubai International Financial Centre compared to Jebel Ali Free Zone
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | DIFC | JAFZA |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Dubai International Financial Centre | Jebel Ali Free Zone |
| Emirate | Dubai | Dubai |
| Specialty | Financial services, fintech | Logistics, manufacturing, trading |
| Cheapest Year 1 | AED 23,000 | AED 18,500 |
| Cheapest Package | DIFC Innovation License | JAFZA FZE - Trading |
| License Fee (from) | AED 12,000 | AED 5,500 |
| Visa Cost Range | AED 6,000-AED 8,000 | AED 5,000-AED 7,000 |
| Notable | Independent legal system (common law) | 57 sq km, adjacent to Jebel Ali Port |
| Website | www.difc.ae | www.jafza.ae |
All Packages Compared
DIFC Packages
| Package | Year 1 | Visas |
|---|---|---|
| DIFC Innovation License | AED 23,000 | 1 |
| DIFC Commercial License | AED 77,000 | 3 |
| DIFC Financial License | AED 127,000 | 5 |
JAFZA Packages
| Package | Year 1 | Visas |
|---|---|---|
| JAFZA FZE - Trading | AED 18,500 | 4 |
| JAFZA FZE - Service | AED 18,500 | 4 |
| JAFZA FZCO | AED 31,000 | 6 |
| JAFZA Warehouse | AED 76,500 | 15 |
Verdict
JAFZA is the more affordable option, starting from AED 18,500 compared to AED 23,000 for DIFC. However, DIFC may offer advantages in terms of financial services, fintech.