Company Registration

How to Register a Company in Ajman Free Zone as a Foreigner?  

The Ajman Free Zone is an economic zone located in Ajman City, United Arab Emirates. It was established in 1988 to support industrial and economic growth in the Emirate. The Ajman Free Zone is an independent and one of the UAE’s pioneering economic zones that caters to a diverse range of business activities.  

Ajman is one of the seven emirates that form the United Arab Emirates. It is also the smallest emirate; however, it offers excellent services to over 9,000+ companies of various industries. It is a government entity but is under the leadership of the Ruler of Ajman, H.H. Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi.  

Why Ajman Free Zone?  

The Ajman Free Zone is an excellent economic zone for the following reasons: 

• Located Close to the Ajman Port, Sharjah and Dubai International Airports.  

• Assistance for Company Registration and Visa Processing.  

• Provides Strategic Industrial Clusters.   

• 100% Foreign Ownership.  

• Tax Exemptions.  

Due to the above-mentioned reasons, global entrepreneurs are opting for Ajman free zone business setup.  

What are the Business Structures for Company Formation in Ajman Free Zone?  

The Ajman Free Zone offers four distinct structures for company setup. Each structure offers tailored benefits, liability and ownership. This flexibility and customised features allow entrepreneurs to leverage its benefits. The four company structures for the Ajman Free Zone are:  

Free Zone Establishment (FZE)

The Ajman free zone establishment is a simple structure for company formation. This structure is preferred by individuals who wish to be the sole proprietor of the company. You only need one shareholder for an FZE and will get the status of an independent corporate entity.  

Free Zone Company (FZC or FZ-LLC)

A free zone company structure, also known as a free zone limited liability company, is ideal for a company that requires two or more shareholders. This is a legal structure for partnerships and corporate individuals. It supports industrial, manufacturing and commercial services.  

Branch of a UAE Company 

The branch of a UAE company is a legal structure for existing local UAE companies. If you have a UAE business license, you can enter the Ajman Free Zone market with this structure. This option is ideal for local companies looking to expand business operations to the free zone. 

Branch of a Foreign Company 

The branch of a foreign company is for existing foreign companies to expand business activities to the Ajman Free Zone. The branch office will have a distinct legal entity but will be under the management of the parent company and act as a regional extension for marketing.  

Eligibility Criteria for Company Setup in Ajman Free Zone  

To establish a presence in the Ajman Free Zone, you will have to meet the eligibility criteria set by the Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA). The criteria are as follows:  

• The companies must be registered under one of the legal structures.   

• A minimum of one shareholder who can either be an individual or a legal entity.   

• Minimum capital requirement will depend on the type of business license applied for.   

• Every business must have a registered office address within the Ajman Free Zone.  

• The businesses must renew their Ajman Free Zone company license annually.  

How to Register a Company in Ajman Free Zone?  

The entire process of company registration in the Ajman Free Zone will take around 1 to 3 business days. However, if there are any discrepancies in the application, it might take longer. Below is a list of step-wise processes to register a company in the Ajman Free Zone:  

Select a Business Activity and Legal Structure

Determine the business activity you want to start in the Ajman Free Zone after going through the Ajman Free Zone Activity list. After you’ve chosen the business activity, select the right legal structure that best fits your business needs.   

Select the Right Business License 

Select the business license depending on your business activity in the Ajman Free Zone. You will have to choose either a commercial, industrial or professional business license and ensure compliance with the local laws.  

Choose a Company Name 

Choose three company names that are available for trademark and submit them for approval to the Ajman Free Zone Authority. The company names selected must be under the UAE company naming guidelines and regulations.  

Gather the Documents and Submit

Gather all the essential legal documents required to register a company in the Ajman Free Zone. The documents will include a passport copy, address proof, company name and business activity, etc. Pay the registration fee and submit to the relevant authority.  

Obtain Initial Approval and Sign the Lease Agreement

The AFZA will review and verify your documents and provide the initial approval to proceed with the further company registration requirements. You will also be required to sign the lease agreement for an office space within the Ajman Free Zone.  

Obtain the Business License and Documents

If the above steps are completed accurately, you will obtain the business license and other company documents, such as the Chamber of Commerce Registration Certificate, Memorandum of Association (for multiple partners), and a lease agreement. 

Obtain an Establishment Card and Entry Permit

Apply for an establishment card through the Ajman Free Zone online portal. If you are a non-resident, apply for an entry permit, which will allow you to enter the country. However, if you are already within the country, using the permit, convert your visa to a residency visa. 

Apply for an Emirates ID and Complete the Biometrics Process 

Apply for an Emirates ID; it is an essential legal identification document in the UAE. You will have to complete the biometrics process by visiting the Emirates ID centre. Provide your fingerprint and biometrics for verification.  

Receive Visa Approval and Emirates ID

After your biometrics and medical verifications are completed, submit the details for visa approval. After which, it will be sent to you through an official email. You can also access it through the UAEICP app. Once your visa is processed, the Emirates ID will be issued.  

Open a Corporate Bank Account 

Open a local corporate bank account for your business, as it will help ensure smooth financial transactions. The approval for the bank account will take a few weeks, and once received, you can officially start your business operations.  

Advantages of Ajman Free Zone Company Setup  

The list of advantages of the Ajman free zone company setup includes:  

• Supportive Business Environment: The Ajman free zone offers a supportive business environment, such as visa processing, immigration assistance and business support.  

• Tax Benefits: The Ajman free zone is a tax-free economic zone; businesses in this free zone do not have to pay any corporate or personal income tax.  

• Range of Business Activities: The Ajman free zone supports a range of business activities from manufacturing and trading to advertising and consulting.   

• No Currency Restrictions: The Ajman free zone allows you to smoothly transfer and remit foreign currency and conduct international business.  

• Strategic Connectivity: The Ajman free zone offers strategic connectivity as it is located in proximity to the bustling Ajman Port and major international airports.  

• Completely Remote Setup: The Ajman free zone operates digitally; it allows you to register your company remotely and manage business operations through a streamlined online platform.  

• Flexible Leasing Options: Businesses can get access to various flexible leasing options, such as flexi-desk, warehouse, and executive offices, etc.  

• Customer Care Support: Companies in the Ajman free zone can benefit from the 24/7 customer support services, ensuring excellent business assistance.  

• World-Class Infrastructure: Located in a thriving business location, the Ajman Free Zone offers a world-class infrastructure within an excellent commercial hub.   

What are the Facilities of Ajman Free Zone (AFZ)?  

The Ajman free zone offers a world-class infrastructure, such as a strategic location with port access, a business centre, excellent logistics and office spaces, etc., designed for seamless business operations. The list of facilities in the Ajman free zone includes:  

• Eco-Friendly Warehouses: The warehouses are LEED-certified, which is sustainable and eco-friendly.  

• AI Robotics Hub: An excellent hub for startups in AI and robotics, offering funding support and networking events.  

• E-Commerce Hub: The free zone offers a dedicated e-commerce hub for businesses, offering co-sharing spaces and excellent business incentives.  

• Business Centre: It has an attractive business centre equipped with meeting rooms and networking programs ideal for startups and SMEs.   

• Pre-Built Warehouses: They include pre-built warehouses, which are customizable and ready to use, starting from 100 sq m, located in port areas.  

• Furnished Office Spaces: Businesses will get access to furnished office spaces designed for both startups and established corporations.  

Types of Business License in Ajman Free Zone (AFZ)  

The Ajman free zone offers different licenses based on the business activity, which include:  

• General Trading License   

• Commercial License   

• Industrial License   

• Service License   

• Trading License   

• E-Commerce License  

• Pioneers Package  

• Freelancer Package  

The Profitable Business Activities in Ajman Free Zone  

The Ajman free zone supports numerous business activities, and below is the list of profitable business activities allowed in the free zone:  

• Import and export of goods and services.  

• Medical and healthcare services.   

• Manufacturing, industrial and production of goods. 

• Education and training services.    

• E-commerce, retail and digital business.  

• Professional and non-professional services.  

• Consultancy services.  

• Broadcasting, media, publishing and advertising.  

Documentation Checklist for Company Setup in Ajman Free Zone  

The documents required for company setup in the Ajman Free Zone are as follows: 

For a New Company (FZE or FZ-LLC)  

• Three business names for the company.  

• A detailed business plan (only for industrial and service licenses). 

• If you are a UAE resident or employee, submit a NOC from the current UAE sponsor.   

• A passport-sized photo of the director and shareholders (in a white background). 

• A valid passport copy (minimum 6 months validity). 

For Local Company Setup  

• The original business license of the parent company.   

• A valid passport copy of the shareholder and director.  

• Passport-sized photo copies (in a white background).   

• Chamber of Commerce certificate of the parent company (original copy)  

• Parent company’s commercial certificate (original copy)   

• Detailed business plan (only required for service and industrial license)   

• No minimum capital investment required.  

For Foreign Company Setup  

• Certificate of Incorporation  

• Board of Resolution  

• Articles and Memorandum of Association   

• Power of Attorney   

• Passport copy (minimum validity of six months)  

• Colored passport-sized copy (white background) 

• Company incorporation or Registration Certificate  

• Feasibility Report (only for industrial and service industries) 

• Bank reference letter   

The Cost to Register a Company in Ajman Free Zone  

To register a company in the Ajman Free Zone, apply with the Ajman Free Zone Authority through the official online portal. The exact cost will depend on the business activity and the license applied for. However, the cost involves:  

Issuing of Business License: AED 10,000 – 20,000 

Lease Agreement: AED 10,000 – 30,000/year 

Visa Processing: AED 2,500 – 6,000 per visa 

Bank Account Setup: AED 1,000 – 5,000 

Annual Renewal Fees: AED 5,000 – 12,000 

Note: Actual costs can vary, and for the exact cost estimation, you can visit the official Ajman Free Zone website. 

Why Trust Enterslice? 

At Enterslice, we offer various business services to help all kinds of entrepreneurs. Our business consultants provide end-to-end consulting to ensure you understand the requirements of each business activity. We provide excellent assistance from understanding regulations to company registration and licensing to ensure you have a smooth entry to the UAE market.  

To Wrap Up 

The Ajman free zone is an excellent business-friendly economic zone designed to attract both local entrepreneurs and foreign investors. The free zone’s value-added services make the Ajman free zone one of the thriving locations in the UAE. As an entrepreneur, you can choose from a range of business activities and enjoy the seamless entry to the Ajman free zone.  

To set up a company in the Ajman free zone, you will have to visit the official online portal and apply for the relevant business license. Once you have completed the process, you can legally start your business operations. However, every business activity has its own requirements, and it is advised to take the help of a professional like Enterslice.  

Contact us today to speak with our experts or visit our website to learn more: https://enterslice.com/.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Ajman Free Zone company registration