DUBAI, UAE — September 9, 2026 — Oscar Terminals has published a new industry guide examining the key differences between Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) and other major UAE free zones for chemical storage, including KIZAD, Hamriyah Free Zone, RAKEZ, SAIF Zone, and Fujairah.

The guide, “JAFZA vs Other UAE Free Zones for Chemical Storage: Key Differences,” explores how location, port access, infrastructure, compliance, logistics, and operating costs can influence the choice of a chemical storage location in the UAE.

Chemical storage requires more than warehouse space. Businesses handling bulk liquids and hazardous materials need specialized tanks, appropriate safety systems, controlled transfer operations, and reliable access to ports and distribution networks. The choice of free zone can therefore have a direct impact on supply-chain efficiency, handling risks, and overall operating costs.

According to the guide, JAFZA has a significant logistical advantage due to its proximity to Jebel Ali Port. The integration of port, free-zone, road, and storage infrastructure can reduce inland transfers between vessel discharge and chemical storage. This can be particularly important for bulk liquid products where minimizing handling and transfer points can support operational efficiency and product integrity.

The comparison also considers KIZAD as an industrial alternative for companies focused on Abu Dhabi and large-scale manufacturing projects. Hamriyah Free Zone offers another industrial option in Sharjah, while RAKEZ can appeal to businesses prioritizing cost considerations. SAIF Zone and Fujairah present more specialized advantages depending on air-freight requirements, shipping routes, and regional distribution strategies.

A key focus of the guide is the difference between general industrial infrastructure and purpose-built bulk liquid storage. Chemical storage facilities need to accommodate product compatibility, hazard classifications, segregation, temperature requirements, containment, and controlled loading and unloading operations.

Oscar Terminals operates a purpose-built bulk liquid storage facility in JAFZA with 45,400 cubic meters of storage capacity, dedicated tanks for Class I, II, IIIA, and IIIB products, marine and road tanker access, and a fully piggable pipeline network. The facility also provides heating, chilling, inerting, and nitrogen blanketing capabilities.

Beyond storage, Oscar Terminals provides integrated services including tank leasing, Vendor Managed Inventory, breaking bulk and repacking, specialty chemical monitoring, and toll blending. Its automation infrastructure incorporates PLC, SCADA, and SAP S/4HANA systems to support inventory visibility and operational traceability.

“Selecting a chemical storage location is a strategic supply-chain decision,” said a representative of Oscar Terminals. “Businesses should evaluate not only storage costs, but also port access, handling requirements, safety infrastructure, customs processes, and proximity to their key markets.”

The new guide emphasizes that there is no single free zone suitable for every chemical business. Companies serving Dubai and requiring rapid access to Jebel Ali Port may benefit from JAFZA, while businesses focused on Abu Dhabi manufacturing, Northern Emirates distribution, specialized shipping routes, or cost-sensitive operations may find other locations more suitable.

Oscar Terminals encourages chemical producers, traders, manufacturers, and distributors to assess their product classifications, storage volumes, shipping routes, distribution requirements, and compliance obligations before selecting a terminal or free zone.

About Oscar Terminals

Oscar Middle East FZCO operates a bulk liquid storage, blending, and logistics terminal in Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai. The company provides storage and value-added services for chemicals, specialty chemicals, base oils, additives, lubricants, polyols, and glycols, serving customers across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia.