Overview of Ajman Free Zone for Business Setup
Ajman Free Zone (AFZA) is one of the UAE oldest and most cost-efficient free zones, established in 1988 to support business innovation and investment. Its prime Location near Ajman Port and seamless access to major airports and highways make it a top destination for entrepreneurs looking for quick and flexible business solutions. Form your company in the AFZA Free Zone with expert support, affordable licensing, and strategic UAE location.
What You Need to Know About Ajman Free Zone (AFZA)
AFZA, established in 1988, is one of the most cost-effective and strategically located free zones in the UAE. It supports businesses with 100% foreign ownership, no income or corporate tax, and complete repatriation of profits. It caters to trading, manufacturing, service, and e-commerce businesses.
Popular zones in the region include Ajman Free Zone and Ajman Media City Free Zone. Ajman NuVentures Centre Free Zone (ANCFZ) Both offer a simplified company setup process and investor-friendly regulations.
Key Benefits of Starting Your Business in Ajman Free Zone
- 100% foreign ownership
- Zero corporate and personal income tax
- Affordable license and setup packages
- Strategic location near Dubai and Sharjah
- Import/export-friendly with no currency restrictions
- Fast company registration process
- Modern infrastructure and flexible office solutions
- Visa and immigration support services
- Diverse business community and networking opportunities
Types of Licenses Available for Your Business in Ajman
Free Zone provides several license options to support various business activities. These include Trading Licenses for commercial operations, Service Licenses for professional services, Industrial Licenses for manufacturing, E-Commerce Licenses for online ventures, and Offshore Licenses for businesses operating outside the UAE. Each license is structured to match the specific requirements of different business sectors. Find below
1. Trading License – Free Zone offers several types of trading licenses to match different business activities. A Single Activity Trading License covers one specific product, while Double and Triple Activity Licenses allow businesses to trade in two or three related product categories. These are ideal for companies looking to expand their offerings without committing to a full general trading setup. The General Trading License provides the flexibility to deal in a wide range of products, including unrelated items, and is commonly used by importers, exporters, and wholesale traders. Each license type comes with straightforward setup options and full foreign ownership.
2. Service License – The Service License in AFZA Free Zone is designed for professionals and businesses offering non-physical services such as consultancy, marketing, IT solutions, management services, and similar fields. This license is ideal for entrepreneurs who provide expertise or digital services without the need for trading or manufacturing. It allows for full foreign ownership, streamlined registration, and access to business facilities specifically designed for service providers. Whether you’re launching a digital agency, business consultancy, or tech support firm, the Service License offers a flexible and cost-effective solution to operate legally in the UAE.
3. Industrial License – The Industrial License in AFZA Free Zone is issued to companies engaged in manufacturing, production, and industrial activities within the Free Zone premises. It enables businesses to process raw materials, assemble products, and conduct industrial operations within a regulated environment. This license is ideal for industries such as textiles, packaging, food processing, machinery, and similar sectors. With access to well-equipped warehouses, industrial plots, and logistical support, the Industrial License provides manufacturers with a strategic gateway to local and international markets.
4. E-Commerce License – The AFZA E-Commerce License is designed for businesses that operate through digital channels, including online stores, marketplaces, and service platforms. It allows entrepreneurs to sell products or offer services via websites, mobile apps, or social media. Whether you're running a drop-shipping store, digital consultancy, or online retail business, this license provides the legal structure to trade within the UAE and globally.
5. Offshore License – The Ajman Offshore License is ideal for businesses that operate internationally without conducting any commercial activities within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is commonly used for holding companies, asset protection, international trade, and consultancy services. This license allows full foreign ownership, offers zero corporate and personal tax, and ensures confidentiality of ownership details. Offshore companies are not eligible for physical office space or visas. However, they benefit from a reputable UAE business address and access to international banking facilities. It’s a cost-effective solution for global entrepreneurs and investors seeking strategic business presence in the region.
Types of Companies Allowed in Ajman Free Zone
AFZA offers multiple business structures to accommodate various ownership needs, including single-owner establishments, multi-shareholder companies, and branches of local or international businesses.
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE) – Single shareholder
- Free Zone Company (FZC) – Multiple shareholders
- Branch of a Local Company
- Branch of a Foreign Company
A Free Zone Establishment (FZE) is a business structure designed for solo entrepreneurs or investors who wish to own 100% of their company. This setup enables a single shareholder, whether an individual or a corporate entity, to establish a legal business within the free zone. It offers complete ownership, limited liability, and access to various business activities under a single license. FZE structures are ideal for freelancers, consultants, and small business owners looking for complete control over their operations while enjoying tax benefits and simplified regulations in the UAE.
A Free Zone Company (FZC) is a business entity formed by two or more shareholders, which can include individuals, corporate entities, or a mix of both. This structure allows partners to jointly own and operate a company within the free zone, offering shared responsibility and limited liability. FZC setups are ideal for startups, joint ventures, and growing enterprises that require a flexible legal framework and complete foreign ownership. With access to multiple license types and business activities, FZCs benefit from tax exemptions, repatriation of profits, and a streamlined setup process in the UAE.
Setting up a Branch of a Local Company in the Free Zone allows an existing UAE mainland business to expand its operations within the free zone without creating a separate legal entity. This branch operates as an extension of the parent company, functioning under the same trade name and license scope. It benefits from the advantages offered by the free zone, such as 100% foreign ownership, no import or export duties, and simplified licensing while maintaining its original registration with the Department of Economic Development (DED).
A Branch of a foreign company in the Free Zone enables international businesses to establish a physical presence in the UAE without forming a separate legal entity. This branch operates under the name and license of the parent company and is wholly owned and controlled by the foreign entity. It can conduct the same business activities as its headquarters while enjoying benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, exemption from corporate and income tax, and access to the UAE market. Setting up a foreign branch is a strategic option for global companies looking to expand operations in the Middle East while maintaining centralized management.
Required Documents for Setting Up Your Business
To start a company in Ajman Free Zone, specific documents are needed depending on the business type. Whether you're forming a new company or opening a branch, providing accurate and complete documentation ensures a smooth setup process.
New Company Setup
- Three company name choices
- Valid passport (6 months minimum)
- Passport-sized photo (white background)
- No Objection Certificate (UAE residents)
- Business plan (for service or industrial license)
Branch of Local Company
- Original License & Chamber of Commerce Certificate
- Commercial Registration
- Passport + photo of owner
- Business plan if applicable
Branch of Foreign Company
- MOA, Board Resolution, Power of Attorney
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Passport + photo of company representative
- Feasibility study (if needed)
Office For Business Setup Solutions
- Smart Desk: For startups, 2 visa quota, fast setup
- Executive Offices: Up to 5 visas, prime location in Ajman Business Center
- Warehouses: Starting from 100 sqm, tailored for manufacturing/logistics
- Industrial Land: Large-scale investment opportunities
Ajman Free Zone License Costs for 2025
| License Type | Activities | Annual Fee (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Trading License | Single Activity | 11,900 |
| Trading License | Two Activities | 13,200 |
| Trading License | Three Activities | 14,500 |
| General Trading License | Multiple Categories | 17,100 |
| Consultancy License | IT, Marketing, Management | 14,500 |
| E-Commerce License | Online Business Activities | 18,000 |
Visa Options for Business Owners in Ajman
Investor visas are valid for 3 years. Partner, Manager, and Employee visas are valid for 2 years. Visa Service for AFZA
Managing Your Business Online with the AFZA Portal
Businesses can manage everything online via the AFZA portal official AFZA Authority website:
- Renew trade licenses
- Apply and track visas
- Download official documents
- Make payments
- Receive renewal and update notifications
Explore Other Free Zones in the UAE for Business Opportunities
- DMCC Free Zone Company Formation in Dubai
- JAFZA Free Zone Business Setup
- Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) Company Setup
- Meydan Free Zone Company Formation
- IFZA Dubai Company Formation
- Ajman Media City Free Zone Company Setup
- RAKEZ Free Zone Business Setup
- Sharjah Free Zone Company Setup
- Complete List of UAE Free Zones
Start Your Business in Ajman Business Setup Today At Mehar Business Solution LLC, we simplify your company setup process in Ajman Free Zone from start to finish. Whether you're forming a trading company, a tech startup, or a manufacturing unit, we handle everything from license application to visa processing. Call Us: +971 56 553 9955 Email: info@ajmanbusinesssetup.com Visit Us: Business Village, Block A, Port Saeed, Dubai, UAE Website: ajmanbusinesssetup.com
Mehar Business Solution LLC
Frequently Asked Questions About Setting Up in Ajman
It is a UAE-based free zone offering tax-free business formation with 100% foreign ownership and simplified business regulations.
Trading, Service, Industrial, E-Commerce, and Offshore licenses.
Yes, visa packages are available depending on your office or desk facility and activity type.
Trading, manufacturing, consulting, e-commerce, IT services, media, and more.
Yes, once your company and license are approved, banks in the UAE will allow account opening.
You will need to submit closure documents and clear outstanding dues. Official cancellation is done via AFZA.
