Why Aqaba Is a Duty Free Zone

Aqaba, Jordan’s gateway to the Red Sea, is not only a top tourist destination but also a prime economic hub. Its status as a Special Economic Zone (ASEZ), managed by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), offers businesses and investors unique advantages, making it one of the most competitive duty-free zones in the region.

ASEZA: Streamlined Governance and Investment Support

Established in 2001, ASEZA regulates and manages the entire ASEZ, acting as a single authority for administrative, municipal, and commercial services. This one-stop approach simplifies business registration, licensing, permits, and approvals, creating a seamless environment for both local and international investors.

Economic Incentives and Duty-Free Advantages

Duty-Free Imports: No customs fees on imported goods, reducing costs for businesses.
Corporate Tax Benefits: Flat 5% income tax on net profit, with exemptions on dividends and profits.
Sales Tax Exemption: Most goods and services consumed in Aqaba are exempt from sales tax.
Full Repatriation: Capital and profits can be repatriated freely.
100% Foreign Ownership: No restrictions on equity or currency exchange.
Additional Incentives: Discounts on transit shipment handling, container exports, and Suez Canal fees, plus streamlined customs procedures using ASYCUDA.

Strategic Location and Logistics

Aqaba covers the entire Jordanian coastline (27 km) and hosts 12 seaports, an international airport, and advanced transportation links. Its strategic position allows businesses to access markets across the Middle East and beyond, tapping into over 1.5 billion potential customers through regional and international trade agreements.

Sectors That Benefit Most

The duty-free advantages extend across multiple sectors, including:

Tourism and recreation: Hotels, resorts, water sports, and cultural attractions.
Logistics and transportation: Warehousing, shipping, and distribution hubs.
Light manufacturing: Goods for export and regional distribution.
Professional and commercial services: Finance, consultancy, and technology solutions.

Why Invest in Aqaba

ASEZA’s mission is to make Aqaba a world-class investment destination, combining a duty-free environment with modern infrastructure, streamlined procedures, and strong legal protections. Businesses benefit from lower operating costs, operational flexibility, and direct access to regional and global markets, while residents and tourists enjoy a thriving urban, cultural, and recreational environment.