Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) has emerged as one of the most affordable and entrepreneur-friendly free zones in the UAE. Established in 1988, it continues to attract startups, freelancers, and SMEs from around the world with its low-cost setup, strategic location, and simplified registration process.
If you are planning to start a business in the UAE in 2025, Ajman Free Zone offers everything you need from a flexible licence structure to visa support and 100% foreign ownership.
Why Choose Ajman Free Zone
Ajman Free Zone provides a perfect balance of affordability, convenience, and global connectivity. Here’s why it’s one of the UAE’s most preferred business hubs:
- 100% foreign ownership – no local sponsor required.
- 100% profit repatriation – transfer all your earnings abroad easily.
- 0% import and export duty within the free zone.
- Low-cost licences starting from just AED 5,500.
- Quick business setup in as little as one day.
- Strategic location between Dubai and Sharjah.
- Multi-year licence packages to save up to 30%.
- Visa support for freelancers, investors, and employees.
- Access to Ajman Port for import/export businesses.
Whether you’re a freelancer, e-commerce entrepreneur, or manufacturer, AFZ provides a seamless environment to launch and grow your venture.
Types of Business Licences in Ajman Free Zone
Ajman Free Zone offers several types of licences to suit various business models:
| Licence Type | Best For | Example Activities |
| Freelance Licence | Solo professionals & consultants | Marketing, IT, design, content writing |
| Service Licence | Service-based businesses | Consulting, education, accounting |
| Trading Licence | Import/export and wholesale | Food, electronics, clothing |
| E-commerce Licence | Online sellers & digital traders | Dropshipping, online platforms |
| Industrial Licence | Manufacturers & producers | Food processing, textiles, plastics |
| General Trading Licence | Multi-activity traders | Multiple goods and product categories |
| Offshore Licence | Holding & international business | Investment, asset management |
Ajman Free Zone Licence Cost 2025
AFZ offers some of the most competitive business setup packages in the UAE. Here’s an overview of estimated 2025 prices:
| Package Type | Estimated Cost (AED) | Includes |
| Freelance Licence (no visa) | AED 5,500 – 6,000 | Licence only |
| Freelance Licence (1 visa) | AED 12,000 – 13,000 | Licence + visa eligibility |
| E-commerce Licence | AED 6,500 – 8,000 | Licence + business activity |
| Trading Licence | AED 10,000 – 14,000 | Licence + visa option |
| Industrial Licence | AED 18,000 – 22,000 | Licence + warehouse space |
Pro Tip: You can save up to 30% on multi-year licence packages (2–3 years).
Required Documents
Setting up a business in Ajman Free Zone requires minimal paperwork:
For Individuals:
- Passport copy (valid for 6+ months)
- Passport-size photo (white background)
- UAE visa or entry stamp copy
- NOC (if already employed in UAE)
For Corporate Entities:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Board Resolution authorizing the setup
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
Office & Facility Options
Ajman Free Zone gives entrepreneurs the flexibility to choose their workspace depending on their budget and needs:
- Smart Desk / Flexi Desk – Ideal for freelancers and startups.
- Executive Office – Private furnished office for small teams.
- Warehouse Unit – For logistics and manufacturing operations.
- Business Centre – Shared offices with administrative support.
- E-commerce Hub – Tailored for online business setups.
Visa Options in Ajman Free Zone
AFZ offers multiple visa categories to suit business owners and employees:
| Visa Type | Validity | Purpose |
| Investor/Partner Visa | 2 years | For business owners |
| Employee Visa | 2 years | For hired staff |
| Freelance Visa | 2 years | For self-employed professionals |
Total visa cost: Approximately AED 3,000 – 4,000, including Emirates ID and medical tests.
Setup Process and Timeline
Starting a business in Ajman Free Zone is one of the fastest in the UAE.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Choose your business activity and licence type.
- Decide on visa eligibility (optional).
- Submit required documents online.
- Make the payment.
- Receive your digital trade licence.
Total time: 3–7 working days for full setup (including visa).
Top Business Activities in AFZ
Ajman Free Zone supports more than 1,500 business activities across multiple sectors, including:
- IT & Digital Marketing
- E-commerce and Dropshipping
- Media & Advertising
- Real Estate Consultancy
- Food Trading & Packaging
- Light Manufacturing
- Event Management
- Import & Export Services
Key Benefits of Setting Up in Ajman Free Zone
- Low-cost business setup starting at AED 5,500.
- Full business ownership with no local sponsor.
- Fast online application and digital licence issuance.
- No hidden costs — transparent fee structure.
- Access to UAE residency visa for owners and employees.
- Business bank account assistance available.
- Strong government support for startups and SMEs.
Strategic Location Advantage
Ajman’s proximity to Dubai and Sharjah makes it a smart choice for entrepreneurs:
- 30 minutes from Dubai International Airport.
- 15 minutes from Sharjah International Airport.
- Direct access to Ajman Port for import/export businesses.
- Easy highway connectivity via E11 and E311.
Conclusion
In 2025, Ajman Free Zone remains one of the most cost-effective and accessible options for starting a business in the UAE. Whether you’re a freelancer, e-commerce seller, or manufacturer, AFZ’s streamlined process, digital support, and low entry costs make it the perfect launchpad for your entrepreneurial journey.
Looking to get your Ajman Free Zone licence or freelance visa?
Let E-startup.ae handle everything from choosing your business activity to obtaining your licence and visa.
FAQs
1. What is the Ajman Free Zone?
Ajman Free Zone is a UAE business hub offering low-cost licences, 100% ownership, and fast company setup for entrepreneurs and freelancers.
2. How much does a licence cost in Ajman Free Zone?
Licence prices start from AED 5,500, depending on the business activity and visa package.
3. Can freelancers get a visa in Ajman Free Zone?
Yes, freelancers can apply for a 2-year freelance visa along with their licence.
4. How long does it take to get a business licence?
You can get your licence in 1 to 3 working days once documents and payment are completed.
5. What are the main benefits of Ajman Free Zone?
Key benefits include low setup cost, full ownership, profit repatriation, and easy access to UAE and global markets.
