Launch Your Business in Ajman Free Zone with SafeLedger. Quick setup, cost-effective packages, and end-to-end documentation support.
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is one of the most business-friendly and cost-effective free zones in the UAE, strategically located near Ajman Port and just 30 minutes from Dubai. Established in 1988, it has become a preferred destination for startups, SMEs, and international investors seeking to enter the Middle East, Africa, and Asian markets.
AFZ offers 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of capital and profits, and zero corporate or personal income tax — making it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs from around the world. The free zone supports a wide range of business activities, including trading, manufacturing, services, e-commerce, and logistics.
Ajman’s appeal lies in its commitment to creating a business-friendly ecosystem. As one of the UAE’s most accessible free zones, it provides a perfect launchpad for new businesses. Its efficient, investor-centric approach minimizes bureaucratic hurdles, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on what matters most: growing their business.
The decision to set up a business in Ajman Free Zone is a strategic one, driven by a host of unique advantages that cater to a wide range of business needs.
Ajman Free Zone offers a variety of licenses to cater to a diverse range of business activities, ensuring that every type of business can find a suitable structure.
The Ajman free zone business setup is a systematic, step-by-step process that is easy to navigate with the right guidance.
Before starting, you must define your business activity and choose a legal structure. The three main options available are:
You will need to propose a few unique company names for approval. The name must comply with AFZ regulations, which include avoiding offensive language, religious names, and names that are already registered.
Based on your business needs, you will choose the appropriate facility: a flexi-desk, a co-working space, an executive office, or a warehouse. This choice will be a key factor in the overall Ajman free zone business setup cost.
The documentation required is minimal and straightforward.
Once all documents are submitted, the AFZ authority will review your application. Upon initial approval, you will be required to pay the necessary license and facility fees.
After payment is processed, you will receive your official business license, corporate documents, and the lease agreement for your chosen facility.
With your business license, you can apply for a residence visa for yourself and your employees. This process involves applying for an Establishment Card, an e-Channel registration, and then the visa application, medical tests, and biometric scanning for the Emirates ID.
The final step is to open a corporate bank account with a local or international bank in the UAE. Your business license and company documents will be required for the bank’s due diligence process.
Standard processing time for business setup in Ajman FreeZone is 3–7 business days, depending on documentation completeness and activity complexity.
The cost of setting up a business in Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is one of the most competitive in the UAE, making it a popular choice for startups, SMEs, and foreign investors. The total fees vary depending on the type of license, business activity, visa requirements, and facility options you choose.
Ajman Free Zone company formation typically starts from AED 6,500 for a Zero-Visa Package with a Flexi-desk facility. This is the most affordable option for businesses that do not require visas.
The annual license fee depends on your chosen business activity:
If you need visas for you or your employees, the cost will increase based on your visa quota:
These costs include Emirates ID, medical tests, and residence visa stamping.
Ajman Free Zone offers several facility options, each with different costs:
Tip: Ajman Free Zone often runs promotional discounts on company setup packages. Checking during offer periods can help you save significantly.
Setting up a business in Ajman Free Zone is straightforward, but staying compliant requires careful planning and awareness of ongoing obligations. Here are the key factors you must consider to ensure your business operates smoothly and meets all legal requirements.
The number of visas you are eligible for depends on your chosen package and facility. A flexi-desk may come with a limited visa quota, while a larger executive office or warehouse will allow for a higher number of visas for employees and investors.
Opening a corporate bank account in the UAE has become a more stringent process. Banks require detailed documentation and proof of a legitimate business model. Be prepared to provide your business license, company documents, and a clear and comprehensive business plan.
Your business license must be renewed annually to maintain good standing. The renewal process is typically a simple submission of documents and payment of the renewal fee.
While an audit report is not required for AFZ renewal for most businesses, maintaining proper accounting records is a legal requirement. Furthermore, if your company’s turnover exceeds the mandatory threshold, you will be required to register for VAT and comply with all VAT regulations.
Ajman Free Zone company setup typically starts from AED 6,500 for a zero-visa package with a flexi-desk. The final cost varies depending on the following factors:
Business setup in Ajman Free Zone is fast; basic incorporation can be completed within 2 to 5 working days after submitting documents. If you’re applying for visas and a bank account, the entire process may take 2–3 weeks, depending on the case.
Yes, Ajman Free Zone allows 100% foreign ownership across all license types. This means no local sponsor or UAE national is required, giving entrepreneurs full control of their business operations, profits, and company decisions.
Ajman Free Zone offers a 0% tax environment on personal and corporate income for businesses operating within the free zone or internationally. However, the UAE’s 9% corporate tax may apply if your profits exceed the AED 375,000 threshold or involve mainland operations.
No, a physical office is not mandatory. Ajman Free Zone offers affordable workspace options like flexi-desks, co-working spaces, and executive offices, all with valid lease agreements to fulfill business registration and visa requirements.
Free zone companies cannot trade directly on the UAE mainland. However, you can operate via a mainland distributor or agent. To sell products or services directly, you would need to register a mainland entity licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED).
Ajman Free Zone offers five main license types:
For individuals:
No, Ajman Free Zone does not generally require annual audit report submissions for license renewal. However, companies are still legally required to maintain accurate financial records in case of regulatory checks or future expansion.
Visa eligibility depends on the business package and facility chosen. A flexi-desk plan might allow 1–2 visas, while larger offices or warehouses may support up to 5 or more. An additional visa quota can sometimes be requested from the authority.
Ajman Free Zone stands out for low setup costs, fast company registration, 100% foreign ownership, and flexible visa options. It’s especially attractive to startups, freelancers, and SMEs looking for an affordable entry into the UAE market with simplified regulations.
SafeLedger offers end-to-end support—from selecting the right license, preparing documents, and securing approvals to handling visa applications and bank account assistance. With local expertise and direct coordination with AFZ, we ensure a smooth and compliant setup process.
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