Overview of Jebel Ali and its free zone

Jebel Ali is a coastal area in the south of Dubai, anchored by Palm Jebel Ali. The area features a blend of residential and industrial sectors and is closely linked to the Jebel Ali Free Zone, a global trade and logistics hub.

Palm Jebel Ali is fully completed, but not yet inhabited, while the Port of Jebel Ali is the largest sea terminal in the Middle East and the ninth largest container port in the world. It hosts the largest artificial harbor in the world and can accommodate vessels of any size.

Key highlights

• The Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), founded in 1985, now hosts more than 7,000 companies across trade, logistics, manufacturing and services.
• The port of Jebel Ali and the adjacent free economic zone are commonly referred to as Jafza, a thriving business community that provides jobs for about 135,000 people and attracts a meaningful share of foreign direct investment in the UAE.
• More than 50% of Dubai's total exports pass through this port.
• Palm Jebel Ali is completed but not inhabited, underscoring the area's focus on port and maritime activity alongside new development.
• Since 2015 the area has been actively populated, with whole new neighborhoods and improved infrastructure emerging around Jebel Ali.
• Geographically, the area includes IMPZ FEZ, Discovery Gardens, Al Furjan, Dubai Investment Park (DIP), Wasl Gate, and the main Downtown Jebel Ali.
• Across the complex, 124 buildings in 92 residential complexes have been built or are under construction, reflecting a growing mixed-use landscape.

Location and connectivity

Located in the southern part of Dubai, Jebel Ali sits opposite Palm Jebel Ali on the coast. The port and the adjacent free economic zone create a busy maritime and business corridor that links global trade with local markets, while the surrounding residential and commercial developments enhance community life and logistical accessibility.

Business and investment angle

Since its establishment in 1985, the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) has grown into a multi-sector business ecosystem. It hosts thousands of companies across trade, logistics, manufacturing and services, making the area a prominent free zone economy with strong links to regional and international markets.

The port of Jebel Ali and the nearby free zone form a comprehensive business community that provides substantial employment and attracts foreign direct investment in the region. The port also serves as a major export gateway for Dubai, reinforcing its role as a port city with extensive logistics capabilities and industrial clusters.

Property interest nearby

In the Jebel Ali complex, residents and investors can consider communities such as IMPZ FEZ, Discovery Gardens, Al Furjan, Dubai Investment Park (DIP), Wasl Gate, and the Downtown Jebel Ali area. These neighborhoods illustrate the mix of residential living, community facilities and commercial activity that complements the area’s port and free zone functions, offering accessibility to broader Dubai life and business networks.

Who it suits

• Businesses seeking proximity to a major port and free zone for logistics, storage and manufacturing.
• Entrepreneurs and investors looking to leverage a diversified business ecosystem and access to regional markets.
• Professionals and families drawn to developing residential communities with infrastructure and amenities nearby.
• Logistics operators and exporters aiming to connect with global supply chains through a comprehensive port hub.
• Real estate and facility developers exploring opportunities within a mixed-use, growth-oriented area.

Questions

What is the Jebel Ali Free Zone?

The Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) is a free zone established in 1985 that now hosts more than 7,000 companies across trade, logistics, manufacturing and services, creating a vibrant business ecosystem.

What is the significance of Jebel Ali Port?

The Port of Jebel Ali is the largest sea terminal in the Middle East and the ninth largest container port in the world. It features the largest artificial harbor and can accommodate vessels of any size, supporting Dubai’s role as a major trade and logistics hub.

Which neighborhoods are part of Jebel Ali?

Within the area, notable residential and community zones include IMPZ FEZ, Discovery Gardens, Al Furjan, Dubai Investment Park (DIP), Wasl Gate, and the main Downtown Jebel Ali complex, illustrating the region’s mix of living and working spaces.

How many people work in the Jafza area?

The Jebel Ali Free Zone and its surrounding business community provide jobs for about 135,000 people, reflecting the area’s significant employment opportunities in trade, logistics and related services.

What should I know about living or investing in Jebel Ali?

Jebel Ali presents a multi-faceted environment where a thriving free zone economy, a major port hub and expanding residential communities intersect. For tailored guidance on property interests or investment opportunities, Green City Real Estate can assist as a neutral, local advisory option if you’re exploring opportunities in this growing region.