Ajman Free Zone
Ajman Free Zone Company Setup 2026 | AFZ Guide
Ajman Free Zone company setup guidance with licensing, visa, office, renewal, banking readiness and post-incorporation support.
At a glance
Quick Answer
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) offers trade, service, and e-commerce licences starting from approximately AED 6,500 – 15,000 per year (licence + establishment card; costs vary by package and visa quota). Located ~30 km from Dubai, AFZ provides 100% foreign ownership, UAE residence visas, and fast licence processing. Always confirm current rates directly with AFZ.
| Factor | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Ajman Emirate, UAE (~30 km from Dubai) |
| Indicative setup cost | From ~AED 6,500–15,000/yr (licence + establishment card) — verify with AFZ |
| Visa quota | 1–6 visas (standard package; additional available) |
| Licence types | Trading, service, e-commerce, industrial, offshore |
| Processing time | 1–5 working days (standard) |
| Office options | Flexi-desk, shared office, dedicated office, warehouse |
| Popular activities | General trading, consulting, IT services, e-commerce, media, logistics |
COMPANY SETUP IN AJMAN FREE ZONE
The Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) was established in 1988 and has since been instrumental in propelling the emirate’s economic development. AFZ has strengthened industry, trade, and finance by attracting a wide variety of businesses with its attractive package of competitive rights and state-of-the-art amenities. The zone’s investment incentives have helped a great many businesses flourish, bringing in huge profits for their owners.
Ajman Free Zone’s Major Benefits for Businesses:
- To have full control over a business or organization.
- 100% foreign ownership is allowed.
- Capital and earnings can be moved around without any hassle.
- Immunity from paying income tax as an individual.
- Cost-free entry and departure from a country.
- Discounts on various taxes.
- Affordable fees for using the space.
- Power and electricity at cost-effective rates.
- Rents that are relatively low.
- The availability of cheap labor.
- Strong and well-developed support systems.
- Quick and easy counter service (visas, residence, etc.) due to streamlined procedures.
- Quick and easy processes that typically result in a license being issued within a day.
Types of Ajman Free Zone Licenses:
A wide variety of business license types are available in the Ajman Free Zone.
- Business Licenses.
- E-Commerce Licenses:
- Service Licenses:
Ajman Free Zone Industrial Permits:
- Companies must have at least 51% ownership by citizens of the GCC.
- At least 40% of the manufacturing must take place in the Free Zone.
- When shipping goods out of a GCC country, exporters who hold a valid national license pay no customs duties.
Offshore Licenses:
This section is set aside for businesses that operate outside the UAE.
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Related: UAE Free Zone Licence Costs · Visa Cost Guide · Free Zone Business Setup · Free Zone vs Mainland UAE
Page reviewed: June 2026. Costs are indicative ranges only; always request a current written quotation from the free zone authority. UAE Free Zone Finder does not guarantee accuracy of regulatory or fee data which can change without notice. This page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.
Frequently Asked Questions — Ajman Free Zone
What is Ajman Free Zone and why is it popular with startups?
Ajman Free Zone is one of the lower-cost free zones in the UAE, located in the emirate of Ajman. It is especially popular with entrepreneurs and startups due to its low setup and renewal costs, fast processing times, and straightforward requirements.
How much does an Ajman Free Zone licence cost?
Ajman Free Zone is among the low-cost free zones in the UAE. Trade licences start from approximately AED 6,500–12,000 per year, making it an attractive choice for cost-conscious entrepreneurs who still want the benefits of a UAE free zone company.
What business activities are permitted in Ajman Free Zone?
Ajman Free Zone permits a wide range of activities including general trading, consulting, e-commerce, IT services, media, marketing, logistics, and manufacturing. Its flexible activity list makes it suitable for businesses across multiple sectors.
Can I get a UAE residence visa with an Ajman Free Zone licence?
Yes — Ajman Free Zone provides UAE residence visas as part of its packages. Standard packages typically include 1–3 visas, with additional visa options available. This allows you and your team to legally reside in the UAE.
Is Ajman Free Zone far from Dubai?
Ajman is located approximately 30-45 minutes from Dubai by car, making it very accessible for business meetings and client visits. Despite the Ajman address, many businesses successfully operate throughout the UAE from an Ajman Free Zone base.
Reviewed by the UAE Free Zone Finder setup team · Last updated June 20, 2026