UAE Business License
You get complete foreign ownership, attractive tax advantages, and an easy company formation process. Business activities are usually restricted to the Free Zone area or overseas markets.
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) Company Formation
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ), established in 1988, is a leading center for media, creative industries, and a wide range of business activities. Situated along the Arabian Gulf, AFZ offers an optimal and sustainable environment for businesses and investors to expand efficiently. Located in Ajman, one of the world’s most accessible cities, it provides convenient connectivity to two international airports and the busy Ajman Port, which handles over 1,000 vessels each year. With modern infrastructure, strategically organized industrial zones, and well-developed road networks, AFZ is a top choice for international business operations. Backed by more than 50 strategic partners, AFZ delivers a full suite of services—including banking, finance, insurance, business support, wellness, and facility management—ensuring a smooth company setup, licensing, and growth process under the Ajman Free Zone framework.
Launching a business in the UAE can feel overwhelming, especially for newcomers. Our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way – from forming a company in Ajman Free Zone, obtaining your Ajman Free Zone license, to handling visa formalities. With our support, you can get your business operational smoothly and swiftly.
Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) - A Brief
Ajman, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, is home to the Ajman Free Zone, a business-friendly economic zone established in 1988. It provides companies with a fully serviced, tax-free environment to operate. Managed by the Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA), the zone offers a range of services, including company registration and formation, visa and immigration support, as well as office and warehouse leasing.
The AFZA region hosts a wide range of businesses, including trading and manufacturing companies, consultancy firms, and advertising agencies. It provides easy access to major ports, airports, and road networks. Companies licensed under Ajman Free Zone enjoy the same legal standing as other free zone entities in the UAE, enabling them to conduct trade, exports, contracts, visa processing, imports, e-commerce, and banking operations. AFZA is designed to offer entrepreneurs considerable cost advantages compared to other free zones across the UAE. If you’re looking to establish a business in Ajman Free Zone, you’re in the right place.
Benefits of Ajman Free Zone Company Formation
There are numerous benefits to setting up a company in the Ajman Free Zone (AFZA), including:
- ProximityProximity: Ajman Free Zone is strategically located near Ajman Port, as well as Dubai and Sharjah airports, ensuring smooth logistics and convenient travel.
- Digital Gateway: Fully digital business setup in Ajman Free Zone enables companies to manage operations efficiently via a streamlined online platform.
- Full Company Ownership: Investors can enjoy 100% ownership of their companies, giving complete control over business operations.
- Customer Support: Businesses benefit from 24/7 support services, ensuring uninterrupted assistance for seamless operations.
- World-Class Infrastructure: Located in a thriving commercial hub, Ajman Free Zone offers state-of-the-art infrastructure to support diverse industries and growth.
- Tax Advantages: AFZA is a tax-free zone, meaning businesses are exempt from corporate and personal income taxes.
- Flexible Leasing Options: Companies can choose from adaptable office and warehouse spaces, with the ability to scale up or down as required.
- Wide Range of Business Activities: AFZA allows engagement in multiple sectors, including manufacturing, trading, and services like consulting and advertising.
- Supportive Business Ecosystem: The free zone provides immigration assistance, business development support, and access to networking and promotional events.
- No Currency Restrictions: Businesses face no limitations on foreign currencies, facilitating smooth international trade.
- Strategic Location: With proximity to major ports, airports, and road networks, companies enjoy excellent regional connectivity.
Overall, the Ajman Free zone offers a range of benefits, making it an attractive option for companies looking to set up a business in the UAE.
Major Sectors in Ajman Free Zone
The following are some of the new and major sectors in Ajman Free Zone,
- Food & Beverage: Ajman Free Zone is a strategic hub for the Food & Beverage (F&B) industry, one of the largest global sectors, offering businesses excellent access to regional and international markets while contributing significantly to revenue and employment.
- Automotive: The automotive sector, a major driver of the global economy, flourishes in Ajman Free Zone, providing opportunities for strong revenue generation and long-term market growth.
- Health & Beauty: With rising consumer demand and technological advancements, the Health & Beauty industry is expanding rapidly. Ajman Free Zone serves as an ideal platform for companies to innovate and scale in this sector.
- Construction: Ajman Free Zone supports the construction industry with fully equipped offices, warehouses, business centers, and on-site accommodations, enabling businesses to shape the infrastructure of the future.
- Agriculture: Emerging as a key destination for agribusiness, Ajman Free Zone offers a conducive environment for agriculture and related commodities, fostering growth in this essential industry.
- Education: Home to over 170 education-related facilities, Ajman Free Zone plays a vital role in advancing the region’s education sector, supporting the UAE’s initiatives in educational development and reforms.
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) Facilities
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) offers world-class facilities designed to provide businesses with a seamless and productive working environment. Here is the list of facilities with their description given in the following table:
Facility | Description |
Executive Offices | Spacious, strategically located offices with customisation options to meet specific business needs. |
Furnished Office Spaces | Fully equipped office spaces designed for startups and expanding businesses, offering flexibility and productivity-enhancing amenities. |
Business Centre | Shared co-working space with meeting rooms, networking lounges, and collaborative work areas for startups and SMEs. |
Freelancer & Pioneers Hub | Cost-effective co-working spaces for freelancers, independent professionals, and graduates, providing flexibility and growth opportunities. |
AI Robotics Hub | A hub for AI and robotics startups offering co-working spaces, executive offices, networking events, training programs, and funding support. |
E-Commerce Hub | A dedicated space for e-commerce businesses, offering networking opportunities, business incentives, and shared workspaces. |
Eco-Friendly Warehouses | Gold LEED-certified warehouses near Ajman Port and Customs, prioritising sustainability with customisable spaces starting from 100 sq.m. |
Pre-Built Warehouses | Ready-to-use warehouses, starting from 100 sq.m., located in a designated industrial area with easy port access. |
Land Leasing | Long-term land leases (20+ years) for investors to build customised business facilities. |
Onsite Accommodation | Fully equipped accommodations with 24/7 security, air conditioning, laundry services, prayer areas, restaurants, and parking facilities. |
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) Facilities
Certain eligibility criteria must be met to establish a business at the Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA). These criteria are as follows:
- Business Activity: AFZA issues licenses for different kinds of businesses such as trading, manufacturing, and service-oriented companies. The specific license required depends on what the business will do.
- Company Structure: The entity must be registered under a legal form, like a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a Branch Office, or a Free Zone Establishment (FZE).
- Ownership: At least one shareholder is mandatory, and shareholders can be either individuals or corporate entities.
- Minimum Capital: The amount of capital needed to set up in AFZA varies according to the license type selected.
- Workspace: A physical presence is required in the Free Zone—this could be a flexi desk, private office, or warehouse facility.
- Documentation: Key documents include a business plan, copies of shareholders’ passports, and for UAE residents, a no-objection certificate (NOC) from their current sponsor.
- Visa Quota: The number of visas granted depends on both the type of license and the size of the office space rented.
- Renewal: Businesses must renew their license annually, with costs determined by the license category and office space chosen.
By meeting these eligibility criteria, businesses can establish themselves in the AFZA and benefit from the tax-free environment and other advantages offered by the free zone.
Types of Business Structures Available in AFZ
The Ajman FreeZone Authority (AFZA) permits the registration of various entities, including the following.
Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
A Free Zone Establishment is a business setup structure that allows a single owner—whether an individual or a corporate body—to register a company in the Ajman Free Zone. It is best suited for entrepreneurs or firms wanting complete ownership without any partners.
Free Zone Company (FZCO or FZ-LLC)
A Free Zone Company, also called FZCO or FZ-LLC, permits more than one shareholder, with a maximum of 50. This model works well for joint ventures, partnerships, or businesses that prefer shared ownership flexibility in the Ajman Free Zone.
Branch of a Foreign Company
This option allows an overseas company to open a branch inside the Ajman Free Zone. The branch operates under the parent company’s authority and functions as its local extension, often used for promotion, client servicing, or regional operations.
Branch of a UAE Company
A UAE Company Branch is the extension of an already licensed UAE-based business. It enables local companies to expand their reach into the Ajman Free Zone, building on their existing licences and operations.
Ajman Free Zone Licenses
An e-commerce license allows businesses to carry out online trade, including selling products and services via websites or mobile platforms.
The Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) provides multiple types of trading licenses for companies operating within the free zone, enabling them to carry out diverse business activities. Below are the license categories offered by AFZA along with their requirements.
General Trading License
This license enables companies to import, export, store, and trade a broad range of products under one license. It covers items such as food, furniture, and electronics. For restricted goods, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) may be required as part of Ajman Free Zone regulations.
Commercial License
A commercial license allows businesses to sell goods and services both within the UAE and overseas. It grants permission for importing, exporting, and trading products inside the Free Zone and in the UAE market.
Industrial License
This license applies to companies involved in manufacturing, assembling, or processing. It permits importing raw materials and exporting finished goods, overseeing the full production cycle inside the Free Zone.
Service License
A service license is designed for businesses offering professional or specialized services, such as consultancy, logistics, insurance, travel, accounting, law, or IT. It authorizes service-based operations within the Free Zone.
Trading License
This license authorizes companies to deal in specific goods mentioned in the license, allowing their import, export, and sale within the UAE.
E-commerce License
An e-commerce license allows businesses to carry out online trade, including selling products and services via websites or mobile platforms.
National Industrial License
The trading license you need depends on your business activity as outlined in the Ajman Free Zone activity list. Before applying, make sure all Ajman Free Zone license requirements are met. Ventures Biz assists companies in identifying and obtaining the most suitable license for their operations.
The specific trading license required depends on the business activities listed under the Ajman Free Zone activity list that the company intends to carry out. It is important to meet all Ajman Free Zone licensing requirements before applying. Ventures Biz assists businesses in identifying and obtaining the most suitable license for their operations.
Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) Business Activities
AFZA provides multiple benefits for businesses, such as full foreign ownership, complete repatriation of profits and capital, zero corporate and personal income taxes, and exemption from customs duties on imports and exports.
There are various business activities allowed in AFZA, which include:
- Trading: Buying and selling goods and commodities across borders.
- Industrial: Producing, assembling, or manufacturing various products.
- Service: Offering skilled or general services to clients.
- E-commerce: Conducting online sales and purchases of products and services.
- Logistics: Managing storage, shipping, and delivery of goods.
- Consultancy: Offering expert advice and solutions in specific areas.
- Media: Creating, distributing, or promoting content through publishing, broadcasting, and advertising.
- Education: Delivering teaching, training, or learning programs.
- Hospitality: Running hotels, restaurants, cafés, and tourism-related businesses.
- Health: Delivering healthcare, medical treatment, or wellness services.
Note that the above list is not exhaustive, and additional business activities may be allowed in AFZA.
Documents Required for Ajman Free Zone Company Setup
To set up a company in Ajman Free Zone, the following documents are typically required:
- Three suggested company names
- Valid passport copy (minimum 6 months validity) of each shareholder and director
- Recent passport-size photo (with white background) of each shareholder and director
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from current sponsor, if the applicant is a UAE resident employee
- Business plan (mandatory for industrial and service license applications)
Please note that additional documents may be required depending on the type of company and license being applied for.
Setting up a Branch of a Local Company
To set up a branch of a local company in the Ajman Free Zone, the following documents are typically required:
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Recent passport-sized photo with a white background
- Parent company’s original trade license
- Parent company’s original Chamber of Commerce certificate
- Parent company’s original commercial registration document
- Business plan (mandatory for Industrial or Service license applications)
- No minimum capital requirement
It’s important to note that the requirements may vary depending on the business’s nature and the license type being applied for.
Branch of a Foreign Company
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Incorporation Certificate
- Power of Attorney Document
- Resolution passed by the Board
- Passport copy of the firm’s representative/manager (valid for at least six months)
- Recent color photograph (with white background)
- Company Registration/Formation certificate issued by the respective authority in the home country
- Feasibility study/report (for Industrial and Service Enterprises)
- Bank reference letter or a letter of good standing from the current bank
It’s also worth noting that the documents mentioned may need to be attested by the UAE embassy in the country of origin or by the relevant authorities, depending on the requirements of Ajman Free zone company setup.
Ajman Free Zone Company Formation Procedure
Company setup in Ajman Free Zone can be finalized within 1–3 business days once all necessary documents are prepared and submitted. Here’s the process to launch your business smoothly.
Step 1: Select Your Business Activity
Identify the type of business you want to operate—whether it’s trading, manufacturing, or offering services. Having a clear business plan will simplify the approval process. Review the Ajman Free Zone activity list to pick the most suitable option for your venture.
Step 2: Decide on the Legal Structure and License Category
Pick the suitable legal framework for your business:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): Owned by one shareholder
- Free Zone Company (FZC): Owned by more than one shareholder
- Branch of a Local Company
- Branch of a Foreign Company: Then, select the correct license type according to your business operations — whether commercial, industrial, or professional.
Step 3: Pick a Company Name
Prepare three possible company names and send them to the Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) for approval, making sure they follow UAE business naming rules.
Step 4: Collect and Submit Essential Documents
Compile and provide the required paperwork, such as:
- Copy of passport
- Passport-sized photograph
- Residential address, contact number, and email ID
- Company name along with business activity information
Step 5: Get Initial Approval
After AFZA reviews and confirms your submitted documents, you will be granted initial approval, enabling you to move forward with the next steps.
Step 6: Execute the Lease Agreement
To establish operations in Ajman Free Zone, you must finalize a lease agreement for office or warehouse premises. This agreement is a mandatory requirement for obtaining your business license.
Step 7: Obtain Your Business License and Registration Papers
Once the registration process is finalized, you will be issued:
- Business License
- Chamber of Commerce Certificate
- Office Lease Agreement
- Memorandum of Association (if there are multiple partners) These documents are essential for setting up a corporate bank account in Dubai. Keep in mind, at least one shareholder must be a UAE resident to open the account.
Step 8: Get an Establishment Card
The establishment card lists your company’s details and is required to sponsor employee residence visas.
Step 9: Secure an Entry Permit
If you are outside the UAE, you must first obtain an entry permit to enter. If you are already in the UAE, your existing visa status must be converted into a residence visa after the permit is issued.
Step 10: Complete Medical Examination and Submit Visa Documents
A medical test is compulsory for visa approval. This can be done in Dubai without the need to travel to Ajman.
Step 11: Apply for Emirates ID
File your documents for the Emirates ID, which serves as an essential legal identification in the UAE.
Step 12: Finish the Biometrics Procedure
Go to an Emirates ID center to provide fingerprints and complete biometric verification.
Step 13: Obtain Visa Approval and Emirates ID
After the medical and biometric steps are finished, submit your details for visa processing. The e-visa will be emailed to you and can also be accessed through the UAEICP mobile app. The Emirates ID will be issued shortly afterward.
Step 14: Open a Business Bank Account
Apply for a corporate bank account in the UAE. The approval may take a few weeks, but once granted, you can formally start business activities.
Starting a business in an AFZA through Ventures Biz
In summary, setting up a company in Ajman Free Zone comes with multiple benefits, including 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of capital and profits, zero personal income tax, minimal corporate tax, and exemption from customs duties on imports and exports. AFZA further supports businesses with end-to-end services such as company registration, licensing, visa processing, and legal documentation.
To establish your business in AFZA, simply visit our website and select the service package that matches your business needs. The setup process generally requires submitting the necessary documents along with the applicable fees. Once your Ajman Free Zone company is registered, you can begin operations and enjoy the wide range of advantages available within the zone.
Keep in mind that requirements may vary depending on your chosen business activity. Therefore, consulting with our specialists—who are well-versed in the Ajman Free Zone activity list—is highly recommended to confirm that your business activity is allowed and to secure the right licenses and approvals.
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