Jumeirah Lakes Towers Free Zone (DMCC)
2002
25K+
JLT
Physical Address
Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
About Jumeirah Lakes Towers Free Zone (DMCC)
A comprehensive trading ecosystem that transforms Dubai into a pivotal center for international commodity flows, with a focus on precious metals, energy, agri-commodities, and a thriving business community in a world-class mixed-use development
About Jumeirah Lakes Towers Free Zone
Established in 2002 as part of Dubai’s strategic economic diversification initiative, Jumeirah Lakes Towers Free Zone represents a pioneering approach to urban business development that transcends traditional industrial zones by creating a comprehensive mixed-use district where commercial operations integrate seamlessly with urban lifestyle. Developed under the authority of Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), the free zone was conceptualized as a specialized environment for commodities trading that has evolved into a diverse business ecosystem supporting multiple sectors while maintaining its core expertise in commodities, trade, and financial services. The master plan follows a distinctive cluster approach organized around artificial lakes and interconnected by pedestrian bridges—creating a unique urban morphology where commercial towers, residential buildings, and community amenities form a cohesive environment that balances business functionality with quality of life considerations.
What distinguishes JLT Free Zone from other commercial districts is its sophisticated integration of business infrastructure with urban design principles—creating a comprehensive environment where corporate operations benefit from both world-class commercial facilities and the vibrant ecosystem of a mixed-use community. The zone’s infrastructure includes premium-grade office towers, specialized business clusters, integrated community facilities, and comprehensive urban amenities—with enhanced digital connectivity, sophisticated building systems, advanced security frameworks, and strategic transportation links supporting diverse business operations across multiple sectors. This physical foundation is complemented by a mature regulatory framework designed to facilitate international business, with streamlined processes for company establishment, operational licensing, corporate governance, and global business development that address the unique requirements of organizations engaged in international commerce and professional services.
Integrated Business Community
JLT Free Zone has evolved into a comprehensive ecosystem that houses over 20,000 registered companies spanning diverse sectors—from global corporations and regional headquarters to specialized service providers, professional firms, and international entrepreneurs. This concentration of diverse expertise creates a dynamic environment where commercial capabilities, professional services, entrepreneurial innovation, and international networks converge, facilitating sophisticated business models that leverage the strategic advantages of an integrated urban business district across multiple operational approaches and market strategies.
The zone’s ecosystem extends beyond traditional business activities to encompass the full spectrum of urban commercial life—from corporate operations and professional services to retail experiences and community engagement. This diversity creates a complete business environment where various functions complement and reinforce each other, enabling comprehensive commercial solutions that integrate professional operations, client engagement, and business development within a single strategic location. Supporting this core community is a sophisticated network of infrastructure including transportation systems, utility networks, business facilities, and service providers that enhance the functional capabilities of the entire ecosystem.
Available License Types
Choose from a comprehensive range of specialized business licenses designed to support various commercial activities in the JLT free zone
Agricultural
Agricultural and farming operations
Aviation
Aviation and aerospace services
Commercial
General trading and business activities
Consulting
Expert advisory and consulting services
Creative Industries
Design, arts and creative services
E-commerce
Online trading and digital commerce
Education
Educational institutions and training
Financial Services
Banking and financial operations
Freelance
Independent professional services
Healthcare
Medical and healthcare services
Holding Company
Investment and holding activities
Industrial
Manufacturing and production
Media & Entertainment
Media production and entertainment
Professional
Consulting and professional services
Research & Development
R&D and innovation activities
Service
Support and service industries
Specialized Trading
Niche commodity and specialized trading
Trading
Import / export and commodity tradingEach license type has specific approvals and requirements to suit different types of businesses. Our experts will help you choose the most appropriate license for your business operations.
Why Choose JLT for Your Business
Discover the unique advantages that make Jumeirah Lakes Towers Free Zone (DMCC) a leading free zone for international business and strategic growth opportunities
Urban Business Environment
Immersion in a sophisticated urban business district that combines commercial infrastructure with lifestyle amenities, creating a comprehensive environment where professional operations benefit from both world-class business facilities and vibrant community dynamics.
Integrated Community Ecosystem
Access to a complete urban ecosystem incorporating office towers, residential buildings, retail outlets, dining venues, and community facilities within a master-planned district designed for both business efficiency and quality of life.
Strategic Location
Prime position along Sheikh Zayed Road with direct access to Dubai's central business corridors, key commercial districts, and major transportation networks, providing exceptional connectivity to Dubai's economic centers and international gateways.
Metro Connectivity
Direct integration with Dubai Metro through dedicated stations, providing efficient public transportation access for employees, clients, and visitors while reducing commuting challenges and enhancing workforce mobility.
Professional Services Cluster
Concentration of professional service providers, corporate operations, and business expertise creating a dynamic environment where complementary capabilities, specialized knowledge, and business networks enhance operational effectiveness.
Commodities Trading Expertise
Access to specialized infrastructure, market platforms, and industry networks supporting commodities trading operations, with particular emphasis on precious metals, diamonds, agricultural products, and energy resources.
100% Foreign Ownership
Complete ownership of your enterprise without local partner requirements, giving international companies full control over strategic direction, operational management, and business development within a globally-oriented business environment.
Flexible Office Solutions
Diverse workspace options including standard offices, serviced offices, and flexi desks that accommodate various business models, operational scales, and growth trajectories with adaptable configurations and scalable solutions.
Business Support Services
Comprehensive range of business facilitation services including company formation, licensing assistance, visa processing, government relations, and operational support designed to streamline administrative requirements and enhance business efficiency.
Networking Opportunities
Vibrant business community with regular networking events, industry forums, professional gatherings, and business connections that facilitate relationship development, partnership formation, and market engagement.
Lifestyle Integration
Seamless integration of business operations with lifestyle amenities including dining options, retail facilities, recreational spaces, and community features that enhance work-life balance and professional quality of life.
Regulatory Framework
Sophisticated regulatory environment with streamlined processes for company establishment, operational licensing, corporate governance, and business compliance, creating a business-friendly ecosystem that facilitates commercial activities while maintaining appropriate standards.Ready to Join the World's Leading Trading Hub?
Start your commodities trading journey in JLT with expert guidance from Inlex Partners
Setup Process
A streamlined 17-step process to establish your commodity trading business in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers Free Zone (DMCC)
Initial Consultation
1 day
Engage with JLT Free Zone business advisors to discuss your business objectives, operational requirements, and strategic goals. This consultation addresses how your organization can leverage the advantages of an integrated urban business district and identifies the optimal approach for your specific business needs.
Business Activity Selection
1-2 days
Identify and select the specific business activities that align with your operational focus and strategic objectives, ensuring compliance with JLT Free Zone regulations and activity classifications.
Company Name Reservation
2-3 days
Submit your proposed company name for approval and reservation. Names are evaluated for compliance with naming conventions and to prevent confusion with existing organizations in the UAE registry.
Office Solution Selection
2-3 days
Evaluate available office solutions including standard offices, serviced offices, and flexi desks to determine the optimal workspace configuration for your business requirements and operational needs.
Initial Application Submission
1-2 days
Complete and submit the preliminary application forms with company information, shareholder details, and proposed business activities to initiate the formal review process with JLT Free Zone Authority.
Document Submission
2-3 days
Submit required documentation including corporate documents, shareholder information, professional qualifications, and operational specifications through the DMCC application portal.
Application Review
3-5 days
Your complete application undergoes comprehensive review by JLT Free Zone authorities who evaluate strategic alignment, operational viability, and compatibility with the free zone's development objectives.
Initial Approval
2-3 days
Receive initial approval for your establishment in JLT Free Zone, confirming eligibility to proceed with the registration process for your specific business activities and operational model.
Office Lease Agreement
1-2 days
Sign the lease agreement for your selected office space within JLT Free Zone, specifying terms, conditions, and operational requirements for your business premises.
Fee Payment
1 day
Pay the required fees including registration fee, license fee, office lease security deposit, and establishment card fee through the online payment portal.
License Issuance
3-5 days
Receive your JLT Free Zone business license, officially authorizing your company to operate within the free zone for specified business activities and operational functions.
Immigration Card Issuance
3-5 days
Obtain your establishment immigration card, enabling your company to sponsor visas for executives, professionals, technical specialists, and support personnel.
Office Handover
1-2 days
Receive access to your leased office space, including basic infrastructure, utility connections, and standard configurations as specified in your lease agreement.
Office Setup
5-10 days
Configure your office with appropriate furniture, equipment, IT systems, and business infrastructure based on your specific business requirements and operational needs.
Bank Account Opening
5-10 days
Open corporate bank accounts with local or international banks operating in Dubai, facilitating financial operations for your business including operational funding, transaction processing, and expense management.
Staff Visa Processing
10-15 days
Begin processing employment visas for your team members, professional staff, technical specialists, and support personnel, with consideration for specialized qualifications and expertise requirements.
Commencement of Operations
3-5 days
Launch your business activities, operational functions, and commercial services following completion of all setup requirements, system configurations, and operational readiness assessments.
Total Timeline
2-4 weeks typical setup
Documentation
Comprehensive support provided
Expert Guidance
End-to-end assistance
Eligibility Requirements & Documentation
Comprehensive requirements and documentation needed for establishing your free zone business
Required Documents
Passport copies
Color copies of passport with minimum 6 months validity for all shareholders, directors, and key personnel. Digital scans must be high-resolution and clearly show all passport details and biometric information.
UAE visa copies
For existing UAE residents - copies of current residence visa with sponsor information clearly indicated and validity dates visible.
Emirates ID
For existing UAE residents - clear copies of Emirates ID (front and back) with all information legible and expiry dates visible.
Passport-size photographs
Recent passport-size photographs with white background (6 copies). Photos must be professional quality, showing full face with neutral expression and meeting international ID photo standards.
Business plan
Concise business plan outlining your operational focus, strategic objectives, market approach, and growth projections specific to your activities in JLT Free Zone, with particular attention to how your business will leverage the urban business district environment.
Permitted Activities
Commodities Trading
Trading in precious metals, diamonds, gemstones, agricultural products, energy resources, and other commodities through specialized market platforms and international exchange networks
Professional Services
Provision of specialized business services including consulting, advisory, legal support, accounting, financial analysis, and professional expertise across various domains
Financial Services
Delivery of financial solutions, investment services, wealth management, corporate finance, and specialized financial expertise for businesses and individuals
Regional Headquarters
Establishment and operation of administrative centers, management offices, and corporate hubs overseeing business activities across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia regions
Technology Services
Development and provision of technology solutions, digital services, software applications, IT consulting, and technical expertise for various business requirements
Restricted Activities
Amenities Available in This Free Zone
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Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, United Arab Emirates