
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is a dynamic and investor-friendly business hub in the UAE, offering cost-effective company formation solutions for startups, SMEs, and global enterprises. With 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of profits, and a wide range of business activities, AFZ is an ideal choice for entrepreneurs looking to establish a strong presence in the region.
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is one of the UAE’s most dynamic and cost-effective business hubs, attracting entrepreneurs and investors from around the world. Established in 1988, it has grown into a key player in the UAE’s economic development, offering an ideal environment for startups, SMEs, and international companies.
Located adjacent to Ajman Port and close to major airports and highways, AFZ provides strategic access to both local and international markets. Its business-friendly regulations, tax incentives, and modern infrastructure make it a preferred destination for those seeking a hassle-free and affordable entry into the UAE economy.
Choosing Ajman Free Zone company formation offers a wide range of benefits, including 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of profits, quick licensing processes, and access to multiple business activities under one license. Whether you’re launching a new venture or expanding an existing one, AFZ makes it easy to start and grow your business in the UAE.
When it comes to setting up a business in the UAE, Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) stands out for its simplicity, affordability, and flexibility. Whether you’re a freelancer, a startup founder, or an international investor, AFZ offers a wide range of advantages that make it an ideal location for company formation.
100% Foreign Ownership
You don’t need a local sponsor to start your business—enjoy full ownership and control over your company.
Cost-Effective Business Setup Packages
Ajman Free Zone is known for offering some of the most affordable license packages in the UAE, suitable for both solo entrepreneurs and larger teams.
Strategic Location
Located near Ajman Port, with easy access to Sharjah and Dubai, AFZ offers excellent logistics and trade connectivity.
Quick and Easy Setup Process
You can register a company in AFZ in just a few days with minimal documentation, making it ideal for time-sensitive projects.
No Currency Restrictions
Businesses in AFZ enjoy the freedom to conduct transactions in any currency without limitations.
Repatriation of Capital and Profits
Investors can transfer their earnings and capital freely without any restrictions or taxes.
No Personal or Corporate Income Tax
Enjoy zero tax on both personal income and corporate profits, making it a tax-efficient jurisdiction for businesses.
Diverse Business Activities
From trading and services to industrial and freelance licenses, AFZ supports a wide range of business activities under flexible structures.
Whether you are launching a trading company, a tech startup, or a consultancy firm, Ajman Free Zone offers the perfect blend of opportunity, ease, and cost-efficiency.
Ajman Free Zone has positioned itself as a dynamic hub for various high-potential industries. Its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and business-friendly environment make it an ideal destination for entrepreneurs and corporations alike. Below are some of the key sectors thriving within AFZ:
Ajman Free Zone is a strategic base for businesses in the food and beverage industry, one of the largest and most vital sectors globally. With easy access to regional and international markets, AFZ offers tailored solutions for food processing, packaging, import/export, and distribution companies.
The automotive sector continues to flourish in Ajman Free Zone, driven by increasing regional demand and a robust supply chain. AFZ provides a conducive environment for vehicle trading, spare parts manufacturing, electric mobility startups, and auto service centers, fostering innovation and business scalability.
The health and beauty industry is rapidly growing, fueled by consumer trends and digital transformation. Ajman Free Zone offers a flexible ecosystem for cosmetics, wellness products, supplements, and personal care brands, helping them scale operations across the GCC and beyond.
Ajman Free Zone plays a key role in supporting the construction and infrastructure sector. From ready-to-use warehouses and business centers to executive offices and onsite accommodation, AFZ delivers end-to-end facilities for builders, contractors, and suppliers.
Ajman Free Zone is emerging as a preferred destination for businesses in agriculture and agribusiness. With favorable policies and support services, AFZ helps companies involved in agricultural production, food security, and commodity trading thrive in a competitive landscape.
Home to over 170 educational institutions and service providers, Ajman Free Zone actively supports the education sector. It is aligned with the UAE’s national focus on academic excellence and innovation, making it an ideal choice for training centers, ed-tech startups, and consultancy firms.
Facility
Description
Executive Offices
Strategically located modern offices that can be customized to meet specific business needs.
Furnished Office Spaces
Fully equipped, ready-to-use office spaces designed for startups and growing companies, offering essential amenities.
Business Centre
Co-working space with access to meeting rooms, networking lounges, and shared work areas—ideal for entrepreneurs and SMEs.
Freelancer & Pioneers Hub
Budget-friendly workspaces for freelancers, solo professionals, and graduates, promoting flexible and scalable work options.
AI & Robotics Hub
Innovation-focused hub offering co-working spaces, private offices, mentorship, networking events, and funding opportunities for AI and robotics startups.
E-Commerce Hub
A dedicated zone for online businesses, featuring shared workspaces, digital incentives, and business networking support.
Eco-Friendly Warehouses
Sustainable Gold LEED-certified warehouses near Ajman Port, customizable from 100 sq.m., designed with eco-conscious operations in mind.
Pre-Built Warehouses
Move-in-ready warehouses starting at 100 sq. m., situated in a prime industrial area with easy access to ports and transportation hubs.
Land Leasing
Long-term land lease options (20+ years) enabling investors to build and customize their own facilities within the Free Zone.
Onsite Accommodation
Fully equipped housing for staff with 24/7 security, air conditioning, laundry, restaurants, prayer areas, and parking facilities for convenience and safety.
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) offers a wide range of business licenses tailored to meet the needs of different industries and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re planning to start a trading business, provide professional services, or launch an online store, AFZ provides the right license to help you operate legally and efficiently in the UAE.
Allows you to import, export, distribute, and sell a wide range of products within the UAE and internationally.
Ideal for: Wholesale and retail businesses, import/export firms.
Specifically designed for businesses selling goods or services online. AFZ supports digital businesses with integrated e-commerce platforms and low-cost packages.
Ideal for: Online retailers, dropshipping, digital product sellers.
Covers service-based activities such as consulting, marketing, design, IT services, and more.
Ideal for: Freelancers, consultants, creative professionals.
Permits light manufacturing, packaging, and industrial activities within the free zone. Ajman Free Zone also provides warehouse facilities and infrastructure support.
Ideal for: Manufacturers, packaging units, assembly lines.
Offers individuals the ability to operate as a sole practitioner under their personal name in selected fields.
Ideal for: Independent professionals such as writers, designers, IT specialists.
Though not part of AFZ directly, Ajman also offers offshore company formation for international operations with no requirement for physical office space in the UAE.
Ideal for: International businesses seeking asset protection and tax planning.
Each license can be customized based on your business needs, visa requirements, and office space preferences. The flexibility and affordability of these options make Ajman Free Zone company formation an attractive choice for both startups and established enterprises.
Ajman Free Zone provides a flexible legal structure for entrepreneurs and companies to establish their presence in the UAE. Depending on your ownership structure, business activity, and long-term goals, you can choose from various business entity types.
A single-owner company registered within the Ajman Free Zone.
Ownership: 100% owned by one individual or corporate entity.
Ideal for: Solo entrepreneurs or sole corporate shareholders.
A company formed by two or more shareholders, either individuals or corporate entities.
Ownership: Shared among partners.
Ideal for: Partnerships and joint ventures.
Allows an existing UAE-based company to expand its operations into the Ajman Free Zone.
Ideal for UAE mainland or other free zone companies looking for a cost-effective branch.
Enables a company registered outside the UAE to open a branch in AFZ without creating a separate legal entity.
Ideal for: international companies seeking a regional presence in the Middle East.
Each structure offers 100% foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, and eligibility for office space, warehouses, and visas. Selecting the right entity type is essential for compliance and scalability, so consulting with a business setup advisor is highly recommended during your Ajman Free Zone company formation journey.
Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) offers a range of benefits to entrepreneurs, including full foreign ownership, complete repatriation of profits and capital, zero corporate and personal income tax, and exemption from import and export duties.
AFZA permits a wide variety of business activities, including but not limited to
Trading involves the import and export of various goods and products.
Industrial offers covers manufacturing, assembly, and production-related operations.
Service: The service provides both professional and non-professional services to clients.
E-commerce enables online buying and selling of goods or digital services.
Logistics involves storage, distribution, and transportation solutions.
Consultancy offers expert advice and professional consultancy across sectors.
Media activities related to publishing, advertising, and broadcasting.
Education includes training centers, educational institutions, and tutoring services.
Hospitality covers hotel management, food and beverage businesses, and travel-related services.
Healthcare includes clinics, wellness centers, and medical service providers.
Please note that this is a general list. AFZA supports many other specialized activities based on evolving market demands and regulatory approval.
Setting up a business in Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) requires submitting specific documents, depending on the type of company and the selected license. Below is a comprehensive guide to the standard documentation needed for various business setups.
For individuals looking to establish a new company in Ajman Free Zone, the following documents are usually needed:
Three Proposed Company Names (in order of preference)
Passport Copy of each shareholder and director (must be valid for at least 6 months)
Passport-sized Photograph of shareholders and directors (with white background)
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the current employer or sponsor, if the applicant is a UAE resident
Business Plan—typically required for industrial or service-based activities.
Additional documentation may be required based on the license category or company structure.
If you’re registering a branch of an existing UAE company in Ajman Free Zone, prepare the following:
Valid Passport Copy (minimum six-month validity)
Passport-sized Photograph with a white background
Original Trade License of the parent company
Original Chamber of Commerce Certificate
Commercial Registration Certificate of the parent company
Business Plan (mandatory for Industrial or Service licenses)
No share capital is required for branch setups.
For international businesses expanding into the Ajman Free Zone, the following documents are typically required:
Certificate of Incorporation from the home country
Memorandum and Articles of Association
Board Resolution authorizing the branch setup
Power of attorney granted to the appointed company representative.
Passport Copy (valid for at least six months) of the manager or authorized signatory
Passport-sized Photograph with a white background
Certificate of Company Registration from the relevant authority in the home country
Feasibility Study or Business Plan, especially for industrial or service businesses
Bank Reference Letter or Letter of Good Standing from your bank
Note: Some or all of these documents may require attestation by the UAE Embassy in the country of origin, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or other UAE authorities.
Ensuring all Ajman Free Zone company documents are properly compiled and legalized is essential for a smooth registration process. Consulting a business setup expert can help streamline documentation and avoid delays in your AFZ registration.
Setting up a business in Ajman Free Zone is cost-effective and flexible. The Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) offers multiple license packages tailored to different business needs and visa requirements.
The cost of obtaining a business license in AFZA depends on the type of license and the facilities selected. Here’s a general breakdown:
License Type | Starting Price (AED) |
---|---|
Trading License | From AED 11,000 |
Service License | From AED 10,500 |
Industrial License | From AED 15,000 |
E-commerce License | From AED 6,000 |
Freelancer License | From AED 5,500 |
Note: These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the business activity, visa requirements, and office type.
AFZA provides options for both virtual and physical office setups:
Package Type | Key Features | Starting Price (AED) |
---|---|---|
Virtual Office | No physical space, ideal for startups & remote businesses | From AED 6,000 |
Shared Desk | Access to co-working areas and meeting rooms | From AED 8,500 |
Executive Office | Private furnished space with full amenities | From AED 12,000 |
Warehouse Facility | Suitable for industrial or storage-related businesses | From AED 25,000 |
AFZA allows you to choose license packages based on the number of visas required:
Visa Quota | License + Visa Package Cost (AED) |
---|---|
0 Visa | From AED 6,000 |
1 Visa | From AED 10,000 |
2 Visas | From AED 13,000 |
3 Visas | From AED 16,000 |
5 Visas | From AED 21,000 |
Visa costs may include establishment card, e-channel registration, visa application, medical test, Emirates ID, and stamping fees.
Renewing your Ajman Free Zone license is straightforward and cost-effective. Renewal charges are generally similar to the initial license cost.
Standard License Renewal: Starting from AED 5,500 (depending on the license type)
Additional Fees: May apply for visa renewal, office upgrades, or compliance requirements
Setting up a business in Ajman Free Zone is straightforward, thanks to its streamlined procedures and investor-friendly environment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the Ajman Free Zone company formation process with ease:
Begin by identifying the type of business you plan to operate, such as trading, services, manufacturing, or e-commerce. Refer to the official Ajman Free Zone activity list to ensure your activity is allowed and categorized correctly.
Choose the most suitable company setup based on your ownership and operations:
Free Zone Establishment (FZE): One shareholder
Free Zone Company (FZC): Two or more shareholders
Branch of an Existing UAE Company
Branch of a Foreign Company
Also, select a license that aligns with your business nature—commercial, industrial, professional, or e-commerce.
Propose up to three company names that meet the UAE’s naming rules and submit them to the Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) for reservation and approval.
Collect and submit the required documents:
Passport copy
Passport-size photograph
Contact details (address, phone, email)
Preferred company name and chosen business activity
You’ll also pay the necessary government and registration fees at this stage.
After reviewing your application, AFZA will issue an initial approval certificate. This is your go-ahead to proceed with leasing and final company registration.
Choose your preferred office or warehouse facility within the free zone and sign the lease contract. This is mandatory for obtaining your business license.
Upon completing the registration, you’ll receive:
Trade License
Lease Agreement
Chamber of Commerce Certificate
Memorandum of Association (if applicable)
These documents are essential for further steps, including bank account opening.
Note: At least one partner must have a valid UAE residence visa to open a business bank account in the UAE.
The establishment card contains your company’s details and is required to sponsor visas for employees or owners.
If you are outside the UAE, apply for an entry permit to enter the country legally. If you’re already in the UAE, your visa status can be adjusted without exiting.
Undergo a medical test, which includes a blood test and chest X-ray. This is mandatory for UAE residence visa processing.
Submit your Emirates ID application along with your medical results. The Emirates ID acts as your legal identity in the UAE.
Visit an Emirates ID center to complete the fingerprinting and biometric verification process.
Once your visa is approved, you’ll receive an electronic copy via email and the UAEICP app. Your Emirates ID will be issued shortly after.
Apply for a business bank account with a UAE-based bank. The approval process can take several weeks. Once active, your company is officially ready to conduct business.
Ajman Free Zone offers a wide range of office space solutions tailored to suit startups, SMEs, and large industrial enterprises. Whether you’re looking for a cost-effective setup or a large-scale industrial facility, AFZ provides flexible options to meet your business requirements.
Ideal for startups and small businesses, Smart Offices are compact, fully serviced units equipped with essential amenities. These offices are plug-and-play, enabling quick setup with minimal overhead.
Affordable and efficient workspace
Access to shared facilities
Fast-track license issuance
Executive offices in Ajman Free Zone are spacious, customizable spaces suitable for growing businesses that require a dedicated professional environment.
Premium office location
Private and secure setups
Tailored layouts available
AFZ provides state-of-the-art warehouses designed for storage, distribution, and light industrial activities. These warehouses are strategically located near Ajman Port and key transportation links.
Sizes starting from 100 sq. m.
Gold LEED-certified eco-friendly options
Easy access to customs and shipping routes
For large-scale industrial or logistics operations, Ajman Free Zone offers land for long-term lease. Investors can build facilities tailored to their specific needs.
Lease terms of 20+ years
Custom construction allowed
Ideal for manufacturing and large logistics firms
Ajman Free Zone provides streamlined visa and immigration services to support business owners, employees, and their families. The number of visas granted depends on the selected business package and office space type.
Zero Visa Package: This package is for freelancers and virtual businesses that do not require residence visas.
1–2 Visa Package: Ideal for startups and small teams with Smart Office options.
3–5 Visa Package: Suitable for growing businesses using executive offices or shared spaces.
More than 5 Visas: Available for larger setups such as warehouses, industrial facilities, or custom offices.
Note: The size of your office space often determines the visa quota.
AFZ offers a simplified visa process for both investors and employees:
Entry Permit Issuance
Medical Test & Emirates ID Application
Visa Stamping on Passport
Renewal Every 2 or 3 Years, depending on the visa type
The process is managed efficiently through the Free Zone’s dedicated immigration desk.
Business owners and employees with valid residence visas can apply to sponsor their immediate family members, including:
Spouse
Children
Parents (under certain conditions)
Requirements include:
Valid UAE residence visa
Proof of income (salary certificate or trade license)
Adequate housing and medical insurance
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) fully supports businesses in setting up a UAE business bank account, ensuring a smooth and compliant banking experience for investors and entrepreneurs.
AFZ has established relationships with several reputable local and international banks. The Free Zone assists with:
Preparing and submitting the required documents
Coordinating meetings with bank representatives
Guiding businesses through compliance and KYC procedures
Recommending suitable banking partners based on business type
To open a corporate bank account in Ajman, the following documents are typically needed:
Valid trade license issued by Ajman Free Zone
Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA)
Shareholder(s)’ passport copies and UAE entry stamp or visa
Emirates ID and UAE residency visa (if applicable)
Utility bill or proof of address (for KYC)
Company incorporation certificate
Company profile or business plan
Board resolution (for corporate shareholders)
Bank reference letter (some banks may request this)
Note: Requirements may vary depending on the bank and nature of the business.
Standard processing time: 5–15 working days
Delays may occur based on compliance checks or the bank’s internal policies
AFZ support helps reduce turnaround time and improves approval chances
Here are some banks commonly recommended for Ajman Free Zone banking:
Bank Name | Type | Features |
---|---|---|
Emirates NBD | Local | Popular for startups, low minimum balance options |
RAKBANK | Local | Easy documentation, quick processing |
ADCB | Local | Competitive fees, flexible business accounts |
Mashreq Bank | Local | Digital onboarding, advanced banking tools |
HSBC UAE | International | Best for global businesses with cross-border needs |
Standard Chartered | International | Premium services for high-value accounts |
Ajman Free Zone offers a business-friendly tax environment that supports growth while ensuring compliance with UAE regulations. Here’s what investors need to know about the Ajman Free Zone tax rules and compliance requirements.
AFZ provides 0% corporate tax for most business activities under free zone regulations.
No personal income tax is levied on individual earnings, making it ideal for entrepreneurs and employees.
Note: From June 2023, the UAE introduced a federal corporate tax of 9% for mainland entities. Free zone companies remain exempt if they meet qualifying conditions.
Value Added Tax (VAT) at 5% applies to goods and services in the UAE.
AFZ companies must register for VAT if:
Annual taxable turnover exceeds AED 375,000 (mandatory registration)
Turnover exceeds AED 187,500 (voluntary registration)
Businesses engaged in trading or offering taxable services must submit VAT returns and maintain proper VAT invoices.
Depending on the type of license and business activity, AFZ companies may be required to:
Maintain proper financial records (income, expenses, assets)
Prepare annual financial statements.
Undergo annual audits (required for certain license categories and renewals)
Audit requirements vary based on business size, activity type, and license structure.
Compliance Area | Requirement |
---|---|
Corporate Tax | 0% (if qualifying as Free Zone Person) |
Personal Income Tax | 0% for all residents and employees |
VAT Registration | Mandatory if turnover ≥ AED 375,000 |
Bookkeeping | Required for all entities |
Audit | Mandatory for certain licenses and license renewals |
Starting a business in Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) can be smooth and efficient when you work with experienced AFZ company formation consultants. Partnering with a consultant offers strategic support and reduces the chances of errors or delays.
Professional consultants bring in-depth knowledge of Ajman business setup services, legal requirements, and licensing categories.
They help you choose the right license type and activity based on your goals.
With their support, the entire registration process is completed faster and with fewer roadblocks.
Business setup consultants manage all the paperwork—application forms, legal documents, and approvals—on your behalf.
They ensure every step meets AFZ’s compliance and documentation standards.
This eliminates guesswork and reduces the risk of delays or rejections.
Once your business is licensed, consultants continue to assist with:
VAT registration and filing
Accounting and bookkeeping
Visa processing for investors, employees, and families
PRO services, including document attestation, Emirates ID, and medical test coordination
This full-service approach ensures you remain compliant and operational from day one.
Area | Benefit |
---|---|
Business Setup | Fast, error-free licensing and activity selection |
Legal and Document Support | Hassle-free paperwork, legal compliance, and approvals |
Post-License Services | VAT, accounting, visa, and PRO services under one roof |
Cost & Time Savings | Efficient processing saves both time and operational expenses |
Looking to start your business in AFZ? Reach out to trusted Ajman business setup services to streamline your company formation and ongoing compliance.
Yes, you can operate outside the Free Zone through distributors or by opening branches in the UAE mainland. However, direct business with the mainland may require additional approvals or a mainland license.
Company formation in Ajman Free Zone is typically fast. With the right documents, the setup process can be completed within 1 to 3 working days, depending on the license type and activity.
Yes, Ajman Free Zone offers a freelance license that allows visa issuance for eligible individuals, especially in creative, media, and tech-related fields.
License renewal is straightforward and can usually be done online. Businesses must provide valid documents, pay the renewal fee, and ensure compliance with AFZ regulations.
Absolutely. Ajman Free Zone supports e-commerce companies with specialized license packages, a dedicated e-commerce hub, and cost-effective solutions for startups in the digital space.
Ajman Free Zone stands out as a smart choice for startups, SMEs, and freelancers due to its cost-effective setup options, flexible office packages, and supportive infrastructure. Whether you’re entering the e-commerce, consulting, or manufacturing sector, AFZ provides the tools and environment needed to grow.
With professional assistance, the process becomes even smoother. Business setup experts can help you navigate license selection, documentation, visa services, and post-setup support, ensuring you focus on your growth while they handle the paperwork.
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