Dubai – Mubasher: Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) announced it will waive around AED 35 million in fines owed by its customers, in honour of the UAE government’s proclamation of 2019 as the Year of Tolerance.

By this decision, Jafza aims to encourage tolerance in line with the government goals, as well as to support the communities it serves, according to a press release.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, chairman of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation and the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority, said: “The values enshrined in this initiative align closely with our values and principles. We are therefore proud to support the government in its efforts to promote the UAE as a leading example of how people from many different cultures can live and work together in harmony.”

“Jafza has always placed its customers’ needs as its highest priority, and this is one of many initiatives to create a business environment that promotes growth and reduces costs. We will continue to push the boundaries of innovation and to develop the world-class solutions and services that our clients have come to expect,” Bin Sulayem added.

The waiver of fines, in line with the Year of Tolerance designated by President of the UAE Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is likely to positively impact the economy of Dubai.

This initiative will enable companies to boost investment in their operations and maintain their growth, the release noted.

The UAE currently captured the 11th spot in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business ranking, with Jafza playing a key role in this positive rating.

The free zone DP World maintains its stature as a leading source of foreign direct investment (FDI) that nearly accounts for 24% of total annual inflow in Dubai.