Ajman is UAE smallest emirate but offers highly affordable free zone options and strategic proximity to Sharjah and Dubai. Here is the complete 2026 guide.
In this guide:
Why Set Up in Ajman?
- Price: Ajman Free Zone is one of the cheapest in UAE; company formation from AED 9,000-12,000 including 1 visa
- Location: 30-minute drive from Dubai; adjacent to Sharjah; quick access to Dubai airport
- Port: Ajman Port handles import/export; suitable for general trading companies
Ajman Free Zone 2026
- Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) is the governing body
- Company types: FZE (1 shareholder), FZCO (2+ shareholders)
- Activities: Wide variety; trading, services, consulting, manufacturing
- Costs: AED 9,000-15,000 for flexi-desk packages including 1-2 visas
- Industrial units: Warehouses available at low cost for small-scale manufacturing
Ajman Mainland
- Ajman Department of Economic Development (DED) issues mainland licences
- Generally more affordable than Dubai mainland; office rents low
Comparison: Ajman Free Zone vs. SPC vs. SHAMS
- SPC Free Zone (Sharjah): Cheapest of all (from AED 5,750); best for solo consultants without visa need
- SHAMS: Best for media/creative at AED 8,500 with 1 visa
- Ajman Free Zone: Good for traders wanting port proximity; AED 9,000-12,000
- Ajman is preferred when you need a port-adjacent company at minimum cost