AFZ -Ajman Free Zone

Ajman Free Zone (AFZ), established in 1988, is one of the oldest free zones in the UAE. It offers an extremely cost-effective, efficient, and strategically located platform for businesses of all sizes, from freelancers and SMEs to international corporations. AFZ is known for its simple setup processes, attractive packages, and flexible business facilities, making it a popular destination especially for startups and trading companies.

AFZ also benefits from being located close to Ajman Port and just 30 minutes from Dubai International Airport and Sharjah International Airport, offering excellent logistics support.

Location

City: Ajman, UAE.
Near: Ajman Port, Sharjah Port, Dubai International Airport, Sharjah International Airport.
Central access to major UAE highways (E311, E11).
Easy gateway to international markets via sea, air, and road.

Key Advantages of Setting Up in Ajman Free Zone

100% foreign ownership.
100% repatriation of profits and capital.
No import or export duties within the free zone.
0% personal and corporate income tax.
Low-cost business setup packages.
No restrictions on currency movement.
One-stop-shop services for licensing, visas, and government relations.
Option for E-commerce licenses and Freelance permits.
Modern infrastructure (offices, warehouses, land plots).
Visa packages: from 0 up to multiple visas depending on business type.
Wide range of customizable solutions for various business needs.
Access to affordable staff and labor accommodation.

Types of Company Structures in Ajman Free Zone

Company Type	Description
Free Zone Establishment (FZE)	Single shareholder (individual or corporate)
Free Zone Company (FZC)	2 to 50 shareholders
Branch of a Local Company	UAE-based company opening a branch
Branch of a Foreign Company	International business setting up a branch

License Types Offered in Ajman Free Zone

Trading License: For activities involving import/export, trading, and distribution.
Professional/Service License: For service-oriented businesses like consultancies, marketing, IT, etc.
Industrial License: For manufacturing, production, or light industrial activities.
E-commerce License: For online trading and digital businesses.
General Trading License: To trade in a broader category of goods.
Pioneers License: Special license for students and young entrepreneurs (under 30 years old).
Freelancer Permit: For individual professionals working independently (e.g., media, technology, education fields).

Key Setup Requirements

Minimum one shareholder.
Office lease within Ajman Free Zone (can be flexi-desk/shared office).
No minimum share capital for some packages; AED 185,000 for industrial licenses (only if manufacturing).
Appointment of a Manager/Director.
Must have a local registered address within AFZ.

Documents Required for Company Setup

For Individual Shareholders

Passport copy of shareholder(s), manager, and directors.
Passport-size photos (white background).
UAE visa or entry stamp page (if applicable).
Proof of address (e.g., utility bill).
Business activity description.

For Corporate Shareholders

Certificate of Incorporation.
Memorandum and Articles of Association.
Board Resolution.
Power of Attorney to the company’s representative.
Passport copies of authorized signatories.

(All corporate documents must be notarized and legalized.)

Types of Facilities Available in Ajman Free Zone

Facility Type	Description
Smart Offices	Co-working and flexible desk options
Executive Offices	Fully serviced private offices
Warehouses	Logistics and storage units
Industrial Land	Plots for manufacturing & large setups
Labor Accommodation	Onsite affordable housing for staff

Step-by-Step Company Setup Process in Ajman Free Zone

Choose business activity and select the company structure.
Select facility (flexi-desk, office, warehouse, land).
Reserve company name and submit initial application.
Prepare and sign incorporation documents.
Make payment for registration, license, and facility fees.
Receive business license, incorporation certificate, lease agreement.
Apply for Establishment Card (if you want to sponsor visas).
Apply for visa(s) for investors, partners, employees.
Open corporate bank account in a UAE bank.

Typical Setup Costs (Estimates)

Item	Cost Range (AED)
License (No Visa)	From AED 5,000/year
License + 1 Visa	From AED 8,000/year
E-commerce License	From AED 6,000/year
Freelancer Permit	From AED 6,500/year
Smart Office Space	From AED 6,000/year
Warehouse Rental	From AED 18,000/year
Visa Costs (per visa)	AED 3,000 – 5,000
Establishment Card	Approx. AED 1,500/year

(Costs vary based on business type & space requirements.)

Compliance and Regulatory Requirements

Annual license renewal.

Lease renewal for facilities.

VAT registration if annual revenue exceeds AED 375,000.

Economic Substance Regulation (ESR) filing (if applicable).

UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Owner) registration compliance.

Why Choose Ajman Free Zone?

Feature	Details
Affordability	One of the most cost-effective free zones in the UAE
Speed	License can be issued in just a few days
Flexibility	Wide business activity range & visa packages
Strategic Location	Near ports, airports, and other Emirates
Startup-Friendly	Licenses for students, freelancers, and entrepreneurs