Ajman Free Zone Company Setup: Affordable Business Option for Entrepreneurs in UAE
If you’ve been exploring affordable ways to start a business in the UAE, Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is one of the best options on the map. Known for its low setup cost, strategic location, and investor friendly policies, Ajman Free Zone has become a popular destination for startups, freelancers, and international entrepreneurs aiming to establish their footprint in the Emirates.
Unlike other major free zones such as Dubai or Abu Dhabi, Ajman Free Zone offers a simple, quick, and cost-effective setup process. Whether you want to start a trading company, service based firm, or even a light manufacturing unit, Ajman provides flexible packages that make business ownership accessible even for first time investors.
The best part? You can establish your business remotely without needing to be physically present in the UAE. Plus, the zone provides 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of profits, and a tax free environment.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Ajman Free Zone company setup, including benefits, business activities, costs, and why it’s the ideal launchpad for your business dreams in the UAE.
What Is Ajman Free Zone?
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) was established in 1988 and is governed by the Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA). It’s located close to Ajman Port, giving businesses convenient access to shipping routes and the wider GCC market. The zone was designed to support trade, industrial, and professional activities while offering cost effective solutions for entrepreneurs.
Today, Ajman Free Zone hosts thousands of registered companies from over 100 countries. It’s ideal for businesses looking for affordable office space, simplified visa options, and minimal bureaucracy.
Some key features of Ajman Free Zone include:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Zero corporate and personal income tax
- Full repatriation of capital and profits
- Quick company registration (within 1–3 days)
- Access to global markets via Ajman Port
- Affordable license renewal fees
Why Ajman Free Zone Matters in the UAE Business Landscape
Ajman may be one of the smallest Emirates, but its strategic location between Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain gives it excellent logistical connectivity. The Ajman Port, one of the UAE’s busiest maritime gateways, is directly connected to the free zone, making it a prime hub for trading and logistics businesses.
The free zone plays a major role in supporting the UAE’s vision for economic diversification. With simple registration procedures, reduced operational costs, and flexible business activities, Ajman Free Zone enables entrepreneurs to start small and scale up as they grow.
Many small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) choose Ajman because:
- It’s one of the most budget-friendly free zones in the UAE.
- The Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) is known for transparency and fast service.
- Businesses can obtain residence visas for owners and employees easily.
- AFZ supports a wide range of business activities under one roof, from e-commerce and consulting to trading and light manufacturing.
Types of Ajman Free Zone Companies
When setting up a business in Ajman Free Zone, you can choose from several entity types depending on your business structure:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): Single shareholder (individual or company).
- Free Zone Company (FZC): Two or more shareholders.
- Branch of a Local Company: UAE based company expanding operations.
- Branch of a Foreign Company: International company setting up a representative office in Ajman.
Each type offers the same tax benefits and operational advantages, but the documentation and capital requirements may vary slightly.
Ajman Free Zone Business Activities
Ajman Free Zone supports a broad range of licensed activities, categorized as:
1. Trading Activities
Importing, exporting, and distributing goods regionally and internationally.
Common examples: electronics, textiles, auto parts, food products, and building materials.
2. Professional/Service Activities
Ideal for consultants, freelancers, and professionals in marketing, IT, or education.
Examples include management consulting, IT solutions, design services, and legal consultancy.
3. Industrial/Manufacturing Activities
Light manufacturing, assembly, and packaging units benefit from affordable industrial spaces and easy access to Ajman Port.
4. E-commerce & Digital Businesses
Ajman Free Zone is one of the few zones offering dedicated E-commerce licenses at affordable rates, allowing entrepreneurs to sell online legally within and beyond the UAE.
Step by Step Process for Ajman Free Zone Company Setup
Setting up your company in Ajman Free Zone is quick and straightforward. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
Select from over 2,000 business activities available under the AFZ license categories.
Step 2: Select the Company Type
Decide whether you’re setting up as an FZE, FZC, or a Branch Office.
Step 3: Pick an Office or Facility Option
Ajman Free Zone offers flexible space solutions:
- Smart Offices: Shared, cost efficient workspace for startups.
- Executive Offices: Private spaces with full amenities.
- Warehouses & Industrial Units: For trading and manufacturing companies.
- Flexi-Desks: For freelancers and remote operators.
Step 4: Submit Documents
Typically required documents include:
- Passport copy of shareholders and manager
- Passport-size photos
- Proof of address or residence visa (if applicable)
- Business name reservation form
- Memorandum of Association (if applicable)
Step 5: Obtain Business License
Once documents are verified, your license will be issued within 1 to 3 working days.
Ajman Free Zone Company Setup Cost
The Ajman Free Zone company setup cost varies depending on your license type, number of visas, and office space.
Here’s a general cost overview:
- Trading/Service License: Starting from AED 6,500
- E-commerce License: Starting from AED 6,000
- Industrial License: Starting from AED 12,000
- Multi-activity License: Starting from AED 9,000
- Visa Packages: From AED 11,500 (including one visa quota)
These packages often include business registration, license issuance, and lease agreements for shared office space.
At Nines Consultancy, we guide clients to choose the most affordable Ajman Free Zone package based on their business goals, number of shareholders, and visa needs.
Documents Required for Ajman Free Zone Company Formation
- Passport copies of all shareholders and the manager
- Passport sized photos with white background
- Entry stamp or UAE visa page copy (if applicable)
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill)
- Business name approval
- Application form issued by AFZA
Timeline for Company Setup
One of the key advantages of Ajman Free Zone is speed.
- Application Submission: 1 day
- Document Review: 1 to 2 days
- License Issuance: 1 to 3 working days
So in most cases, your company can be fully operational in under a week.
Facilities and Infrastructure at Ajman Free Zone
Ajman Free Zone provides modern, ready to use infrastructure for all business types:
- Fully furnished offices in Ajman Free Zone buildings
- Warehouses and industrial units near Ajman Port
- Business centers with meeting rooms and shared facilities
- 24/7 security and maintenance
- Onsite banking, logistics, and customs support
These features make it easier for investors to operate locally while accessing global markets.
Why Choose Ajman Free Zone for Your Business
- Low startup and renewal cost
- Fast business registration
- No hidden fees or taxes
- Easy visa allocation for employees and owners
- Prime location with port access
- Flexi-desk and shared office options
For small businesses and startups, these benefits translate to maximum value at minimal cost, a perfect combination for sustainable business growth in the UAE.
Why Choose Nines Consultancy for Your Ajman Free Zone Company Setup
At Nines Consultancy, we simplify your Ajman Free Zone business setup from start to finish.
We handle:
- License selection and approval
- Document preparation and submission
- Visa processing and Emirates ID assistance
- Bank account opening support
- Post incorporation services (VAT registration, accounting, PRO services)
Why clients choose us:
- Expert guidance on Ajman Free Zone packages and rules
- 100% transparency with no hidden costs
- End to end assistance for local and foreign investors
- Partnerships with Ajman Free Zone Authority for faster processing
Book your Free Consultation Today:
Chat on WhatsApp or call +971 52 975 7543
FAQs Ajman Free Zone Company Setup
1. What is the minimum cost to start a company in Ajman Free Zone?
You can start your business for as low as AED 6,000, depending on the license type and visa package.
2. How long does it take to register a company in Ajman Free Zone?
Most companies are registered within 1 to 3 working days after document submission.
3. Can I get a residence visa through my Ajman Free Zone company?
Yes, company owners and employees are eligible for UAE residence visas through AFZ.
4. Is Ajman Free Zone suitable for freelancers?
Absolutely. Ajman offers Freelancer and E-commerce licenses ideal for individual professionals and remote entrepreneurs.
5. Can I operate outside Ajman with a Free Zone license?
You can trade internationally and within the UAE through local distributors, but a mainland license is needed for direct onshore operations.
Setting up a company in Ajman Free Zone is one of the smartest ways to establish your presence in the UAE with minimal cost and maximum flexibility. Whether you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or an international investor, Ajman offers the perfect blend of affordability, speed, and opportunity.
With Nines Consultancy, your business setup becomes stress free and fully compliant. From selecting the right license to handling all documentation, we make sure your journey is smooth from start to finish.
Start your Ajman Free Zone business today.
Chat on WhatsApp or visit www.ninesconsultancy.com to book your free consultation.
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