Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is one of the UAE most popular free zones for small and medium enterprises. It’s located in Ajman, just 30 minutes from Dubai, offering easy access to UAE markets. AFZ is known for affordable business setup packages, fast licence issuance, and flexible office options.
What is Ajman Free Zone?
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is one of the UAE most popular free zones for small and medium enterprises. It’s located in Ajman, just 30 minutes from Dubai, offering easy access to UAE markets. AFZ is known for affordable business setup packages, fast licence issuance, and flexible office options.
Key facts about Ajman Free Zone:
- 100% foreign ownership allowed.
- Multiple licence types covering trading, services, industrial, and e-commerce.
- Flexi-desk, office, and warehouse options for startups and growing businesses.
- Over 1,000 business activities available.
- Fast process: many companies can be set up in just a few days.
Who Can Set Up in Ajman Free Zone?
Ajman Free Zone is suitable for a wide range of business profiles:
- Trading companies: Import/export, wholesale, retail.
- Service providers: IT consultants, digital marketing agencies, accounting, design.
- Startups and small teams: Affordable setup packages make it easy to start small.
- E-commerce businesses: Online stores, dropshipping, or digital services.
Note: If your business needs heavy manufacturing, large warehouses, or large-scale industrial operations, AFZ can support some industrial activities, but you need to confirm facility availability.
Licence Types & Business Activities
Ajman Free Zone offers several licence types. Here’s a quick overview:
| Licence Type | What It Lets You Do | Ideal For |
| Commercial / Trading Licence | Buy, sell, import/export goods in UAE and abroad | Retailers, wholesalers, import/export businesses |
| Service / Consultancy Licence | Provide professional services (IT, marketing, design, consulting) | Consultants, agencies, freelancers (check specific rules) |
| Industrial / Manufacturing Licence | Manufacturing, production, light industrial activities | Small manufacturers, industrial businesses |
| E-Commerce Licence | Sell products online, dropshipping, digital platforms | Online retailers, digital product sellers |
| Freelancer Permit | Certain professional activities (if allowed by AFZ) | Solo professionals, small service providers |
Important: Ajman Free Zone does offer some freelancer options, but it’s best to confirm the exact eligible activities on the AFZ website before applying.
Step by Step Business Setup Process
Here’s how you can start your business in Ajman Free Zone:
- Choose your business activity and licence type: Make sure your business fits the chosen licence.
- Pick a company name: Follow UAE naming rules: avoid offensive words, certain abbreviations, and names of governing bodies.
- Prepare required documents: Typically: Passport copy, photo, business name reservation, and application form. Additional documents: Business plan, proof of activity, or agreements (if needed).
- Select your office/warehouse option: Flexi-desk, shared office, warehouse, or dedicated office depending on your needs.
- Apply for your licence and pay fees
- Submit documents via the AFZ portal or through a registered agent.
- Licence issuance can take as little as 1–3 days depending on activity and documents.
Open a bank account and apply for visas
- Once the licence is issued, you can open a corporate bank account.
- Apply for residence visas for yourself or employees if required.
Start operating
- You can legally start trading, providing services, or running your e-commerce business.
- Ensure compliance with renewals, visas, and activity updates.
AFZA Costs & Packages (Estimated)
Ajman Free Zone is known for affordability. Here’s a rough estimate:
- Entry-level licence (no visa): AED 11,000–12,500
- Licence + 1 visa: AED 13,500–15,000
- Licence + multiple visas: AED 17,000–20,000 depending on package
- Renewal: Usually similar to initial licence cost; includes office lease and visa fees.
Tip: Always request a detailed quotation including licence, visa, office, and any service fees to avoid surprises.
Key Benefits of Ajman Free Zone
- 100% foreign ownership, you keep full control.
- Fast company formation setup in days, not weeks.
- Affordable packages ideal for startups and small businesses.
- Flexibility in office options: flexi desk, warehouse, or dedicated office.
- Support with bank accounts, visas, and renewals.
- Strategic location near Dubai, Sharjah, and the UAE markets.
Things to Watch & Limitations
- Industrial licences may have specific facility requirements.
- Some activities may need additional approvals (education, health, and financial services).
- Renewal costs, visa fees, and office lease need to be budgeted annually.
- Verify agent transparency; some may charge extra hidden fees.
- Ensure submitted documents are accurate to avoid delays.
Ajman Free Zone is an excellent choice for cost-conscious entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses in the UAE. With fast setup, flexible licences, and affordable packages, it allows you to start trading, consulting, or running an online business with minimal hassle. If you’re ready, the next step is to choose your Afza licence type, select your office option, and submit your application through the Ajman Free Zone portal or a registered agent. Within days, you could have your business legally up and running in the UAE.
FAQs About Ajman Free Zone
Q.1 Can I have 100% foreign ownership at Ajman Free Zone?
Yes, AFZ allows full foreign ownership for all its licence types.
Q.2 How long does licence issuance take?
Typically 1–3 days for most packages, depending on activity and documents.
Q.3 Can I work entirely online?
Yes, with service or e-commerce licences. Flexi-desk or virtual office packages are available.
Q.4 Can I combine multiple activities under one licence?
Yes, but confirm the number and type of activities allowed with AFZ.
Q.5 Is there a freelancer permit at Ajman Free Zone?
AFZ offers certain freelancer options for solo professionals, but eligibility depends on the activity. Check the official AFZ website for details.
