Setting up a business in the UAE? The Ajman Free Zone Licence offers a cost-effective and strategic gateway to the region’s thriving market. Known for its investor-friendly policies, Ajman Free Zone provides businesses with 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified setup procedures.
Whether you're a startup, a freelancer, or an established company, this free zone caters to diverse business needs with various license types. This guide will explore the benefits, license options, and step-by-step process to obtain an Ajman Free Zone Licence, helping you quickly kickstart your venture.
What is the Ajman Free Zone Licence in the UAE?
The Ajman Free Zone Licence is a business permit issued by the Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) in the UAE. It allows companies to operate within the free zone while benefiting from 100% foreign ownership, limited corporate and zero personal taxes, a complete return of profits, and exemption from import and export duties.
This license is available for various business activities, including trading, e-commerce, industrial, service, and freelance activities. Thus, the Ajman Free Zone is an attractive destination for startups, SMEs, and international investors seeking a cost-effective business setup in the UAE.
Benefits of Ajman Free Zone Licence
Getting a business license in Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) has several advantages, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs and businesses. Here are the key benefits:
1. 100% Foreign Ownership
Ajman Free Zone allows full foreign ownership, eliminating the need for a local sponsor. Entrepreneurs and investors have complete control over their business operations and profits.
2. Tax Benefits
Businesses in AFZ enjoy limited corporate and zero personal income tax, as well as a 100% return on profits and capital.
3. Cost-Effective Setup
Ajman Free Zone offers some of the most affordable business setup packages in the UAE, making it an excellent option for startups, small businesses, and freelancers looking to establish a cost-efficient company.
4. Wide Range of Business Activities
AFZ provides licenses for various sectors, including trading, e-commerce, freelancing, consultancy, industrial, and manufacturing businesses, allowing diverse business opportunities.
5. No Physical Office Requirement
Unlike many other jurisdictions, the Ajman Free Zone does not require businesses to have a physical office, which significantly lowers operational costs and provides more flexibility.
6. Easy Business Setup Process
The registration process in AFZ is simple and quick, often completed within a few days. The Free Zone offers minimal paperwork requirements, streamlining the business formation process.
7. Multiple Visa Options
AFZ provides residency visas for business owners, employees, and their families. Visa quotas are flexible depending on the license type and company structure.
Types of Ajman Free Zone Licences
The Ajman Free Zone Licence is available in multiple categories and serves different business activities. Here’s a detailed explanation of the types of licenses available in Ajman:
1. Trading Licence
This license allows companies to import, export, store, and distribute goods within the UAE and internationally. It is ideal for general trading, wholesale, and retail businesses.
2. E-commerce Licence
Specifically designed for online businesses, this licence enables companies to sell products and services through digital platforms. It provides access to the growing UAE e-commerce market with minimal operational costs.
3. Industrial Licence
Suitable for manufacturing and production companies, this license allows businesses to engage in light and heavy industrial activities, product assembly, and packaging. Companies must operate from an industrial facility within the Ajman Free Zone and comply with environmental and safety regulations.
4. Service Licence
This licence is for businesses that provide professional services such as consultancy, marketing, IT solutions, legal advisory, and other specialised services. It is ideal for entrepreneurs and companies offering expertise-based solutions.
5. Freelancer Licence
Designed for independent professionals, this license allows individuals to work legally in sectors like media, design, IT, and consultancy. It is affordable for solo entrepreneurs who want to operate without a physical office.
Ajman Free Zone License Activities List
Ajman Free Zone offers investors a variety of business license activities. These include:- Trading businesses
- General trading
- Import/export activities
- Light and heavy manufacturing
- Packaging and assembling units
- Food and beverage production
- Consulting firms (legal, management, IT, marketing, etc.)
- Media and creative agencies
- Education and training centers
- Online retail and marketplace services
- Digital marketing and IT solutions
- Freelancers in media, technology, and consultancy sectors
Ajman Free Zone also facilitates establishing offshore companies and international business firms. The licensing process generally takes 1 to 5 working days, depending on the number of registered activities.
How to Get an Ajman Free Zone Licence?
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is one of the UAE's most cost-effective and business-friendly free zones, making it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs, startups, and international businesses. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to obtain an Ajman Free Zone Licence.
Step 1: Determine Your Business Activity
Before starting the application, you must choose a business activity that aligns with your business goals. Ajman Free Zone offers several licence types, including:
- Trading Licence
- Professional/Service Licence
- Industrial Licence
- E-Commerce Licence
- Freelance Licence
Choosing the correct business activity ensures that you meet the legal requirements and can operate smoothly within the UAE.
Step 2: Choose a Business Structure
Ajman Free Zone allows different types of business structures, depending on ownership and the number of shareholders. The available options include:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
- Free Zone Company (FZC)
- Branch of an Existing Company
Selecting the right business structure impacts your legal responsibilities, taxation, and ownership control.
Step 3: Choose a Business Facility
Ajman Free Zone provides various office spaces and business facilities options, depending on your needs. These include:
- Flexi-Desk
- Office Spaces
- Warehouses
- Industrial Land
Choosing the right facility ensures your business has the necessary infrastructure for efficient operations.
Step 4: Prepare and Submit the Application
You must submit the required documents to apply for an Ajman Free Zone Licence. The standard documents include:
- Passport copy
- Visa copy or entry stamp
- Passport-sized photographs
- Business plan
The application can be submitted online through the Ajman Free Zone portal or through a business setup consultant to ensure a seamless process.
Step 5: Pay the Licence Fees
Ajman Free Zone offers competitive pricing for business licenses, making it one of the most affordable free zones in the UAE. The costs depend on several factors, including:
- Type of business activity selected.
- The number of visa quotas required.
- The office or facility chosen.
Payments can be made online or through approved channels, and Ajman Free Zone also provides installment plans for startups to ease financial burdens.
Step 6: Receive Your Ajman Free Zone Licence
Once the application is approved, the Ajman Free Zone Licence will be issued. This process typically takes 1-5 working days, making it one of the fastest business setup processes in the UAE.
After obtaining the license, you are legally authorised to conduct business activities under Ajman Free Zone regulations.
Step 7: Apply for Visas and Open a Corporate Bank Account
After receiving your Licence, you can:- Apply for UAE residence visas: Ajman Free Zone offers visa quotas depending on your business type and office space. You can sponsor employees and family members.
- Open a business bank account: A corporate bank account is essential for managing finances. Most UAE banks require a valid trade license, a UAE residence visa, and proof of business activity.
For a smooth and good experience, consider consulting with Shura business setup experts who can guide you through the process, ensuring compliance with Ajman Free Zone regulations.
Documents required to get an Ajman Free Zone Licence
To get an Ajman Free Zone license, you need:- Passport copy
- Visa copy
- Emirates ID
- Passport-size photo
- Business plan
- NOC
- MoA, Board Resolution, & Certificate of Incorporation
- Tenancy contract
Ajman Free Zone Company Setup Cost
The cost typically ranges from AED 5,000* to AED 25,000*. The final expense depends on several factors, including the number of visas required, office space selection, and business activity type. Setting up a company in the Ajman Free Zone is one of the most affordable options in the UAE.
Ajman Free Zone stands out for its low-cost business setup, flexible office solutions, and budget-friendly packages, making it a top choice for startups and entrepreneurs. Shuraa Business Setup provides customised Ajman Free Zone company formation packages to suit various business needs.
Get your Ajman Free Zone Licence with Shuraa!
The Ajman Free Zone Licence is an excellent option for entrepreneurs, startups, and international businesses looking for a cost-effective and easy business setup in the UAE. With benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and a streamlined setup process.
Whether you are venturing into trading, e-commerce, industrial, or professional services, Ajman Free Zone offers diverse licensing options to suit your business needs. You can establish your company easily by following the step-by-step process and consulting experts like Shuraa Business Setup
