Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is one of the UAE’s longest-established free zones. Launched in 1988, it now provides services to more than 9,000 companies from over 165 countries, according to the Ajman Free Zone profile. For founders who want a UAE company close to Dubai and Sharjah, with a wide choice of facilities, Ajman Free Zone is often on the shortlist.
Here is what to understand before you apply.
Why businesses choose Ajman Free Zone
Location is part of the appeal. AFZ sits close to Ajman Port and within reach of the Dubai and Sharjah international airports. The authority also promotes competitive packages and a quick licence set-up process.
The bigger advantage is range. AFZ offers business centre space, offices and executive offices, warehouses, land and onsite accommodation. A consultant who needs a desk and a manufacturer who needs land can both set up in the same zone.
Company types in Ajman Free Zone
AFZ registers four types of business, as listed on its types of business page:
- Freezone Establishment (FZE): an independent corporate entity in its own right.
- Freezone Company (FZC): a company with more than one partner, with documents required from each partner.
- Branch of a Local Company: for companies already holding a valid licence from another UAE licensing authority.
- Branch of a Foreign Company: for companies established outside the UAE. Ownership is 100% foreign, but AFZ states that sales in the UAE must go through a registered agent or distributor.
For individual applicants, the core documents are a passport valid for at least six months, a colour photograph, a visa copy or UID, and a No Objection Letter from the sponsor if the applicant is a UAE resident. Branches also need the parent company’s trade licence, Memorandum of Association and board resolution.
Licence options
The AFZ licence types page sets out three main routes:
- Business Licence: for trading businesses that import, export, store and distribute goods within the activities on their licence.
- Industrial Licence: for manufacturers that import raw materials, produce listed goods and export finished products.
- Sole Professional Licence: for freelancers working in one of 40 approved categories. The holder is eligible for one residence visa and family sponsorship.
Your licence defines exactly what your company can do, so choosing the right activity at the start saves time and amendment costs later.
Corporate Tax for Ajman Free Zone companies
Free zone status does not mean tax does not apply. According to the Ministry of Finance, companies established in a UAE free zone are Taxable Persons under the Corporate Tax Law and must register with the Federal Tax Authority.
A company that meets the conditions of a Qualifying Free Zone Person can benefit from a 0% rate on its Qualifying Income. The 0% rate is not automatic, so check your activities and income streams against the rules before you build your plans around it. Corporate Tax returns are due within nine months of the end of each tax period.
How to set up in Ajman Free Zone
- Define your business activities and pick the matching licence.
- Choose your company type: FZE, FZC or a branch.
- Select a facility that fits your operations and visa needs.
- Submit your application and documents to AFZ.
- Once the licence is issued, apply for residence visas, open a corporate bank account and register for Corporate Tax.
Is Ajman Free Zone right for you?
AFZ suits trading companies, manufacturers, e-commerce sellers and freelancers who want a cost-conscious base in the northern emirates with easy access to Dubai. If most of your customers will be in mainland UAE, plan your sales route early, because free zone and mainland rules differ.
How Bexford can help
Bexford helps founders compare Ajman Free Zone with other jurisdictions, choose the right activity and structure, and prepare a complete application. Our team also supports the steps that follow, from banking and visas to Corporate Tax registration. Licences and approvals are issued by Ajman Free Zone, and we make sure your file is complete and accurate when it reaches them.
Explore our free zone company formation services or book a free consultation with our team.
