Ajman — the UAE’s smallest emirate by area — has established a competitive business environment with some of the UAE’s lowest-cost free zone licences and growing industrial zones. Here is a complete business setup guide for Ajman.
Ajman Overview
Ajman is located 25 km north of Dubai, bordering Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain. Population: approximately 550,000. Ajman’s economy: manufacturing, logistics, retail, and services. Ajman has historically been known as a cost-effective alternative to Dubai and Sharjah — particularly for small manufacturers and trading companies. Port of Ajman: a small but active port serving dhow traffic and short-sea shipping to Iran, India, and East Africa.
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ)
AFZ is Ajman’s dedicated free zone: 4,000+ companies registered. Annual licence from AED 4,500 (service) to AED 8,000+ (industrial). 100% foreign ownership, 0% tax, virtual office to warehouse options. Activities: trading, professional services, manufacturing, and e-commerce. Visa: 1–3 visas in standard packages. Bank account: AFZ has relationships with some UAE banks — verify with your preferred bank before choosing. Port access: Port of Ajman is nearby but has limited container infrastructure compared to Jebel Ali.
Ajman Mainland (DED)
The Ajman Department of Economic Development issues mainland licences: retail, restaurant, service, and professional activities in Ajman city. Ajman mainland is particularly attractive for: F&B businesses (lower commercial rents), retail businesses (lower footfall but also lower cost), and professional services serving Ajman’s growing residential population. DED Ajman licence fees are among the UAE’s lowest — typically AED 3,000–6,000/year for professional licences.