Business Setup in Ajman Mainland

business setup in ajman mainland

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Ajman Mainland Business Setup

Ajman Mainland, despite being part of the smallest emirate in the UAE, has become a bustling center for industries such as real estate, retail, construction, transportation, and business services. This dynamic business environment is supported by around 37,755 active companies as of recent data. A major advantage of setting up a business in Ajman Mainland is the flexibility to choose from over 4,000 business activities across multiple sectors.

Ajman’s strategic location between Dubai and Sharjah adds to its appeal, making it an ideal alternative for businesses seeking cost-effective options. The emirate is known for its lower operational costs and business-friendly policies, allowing it to attract companies ranging from startups to large enterprises. While other emirates like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are more globally recognized, Ajman offers a unique value proposition: businesses can benefit from the same commercial opportunities at a fraction of the cost.

Ajman’s economy has seen impressive growth in recent years. A key milestone in this growth trajectory was the opening of the Ajman International Airport in 2021. The new airport has significantly boosted the emirate’s appeal to global and regional businesses by improving transportation and logistics capabilities. This move aligns with Ajman’s efforts to enhance its infrastructure and provide easier access for businesses to the rest of the UAE and beyond.

In addition to its thriving industries, Ajman Mainland offers more than 2,000 business activities across sectors, making it a hub for diverse business operations. These sectors include manufacturing, logistics, information technology, and hospitality. The ability to engage in various business activities has made Ajman a highly attractive location for companies that need the flexibility to operate across different sectors.

The Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) also provides opportunities for businesses looking to benefit from tax incentives and free zone benefits. However, for companies that want unrestricted access to the UAE market, setting up in Ajman Mainland remains the preferred choice. Businesses operating in the Mainland can engage in both domestic and international trade, offering greater flexibility than free zone setups.

With a favorable regulatory framework, low cost of living, and growing infrastructure, Ajman Mainland continues to position itself as a key player in the UAE’s business landscape. It offers an affordable yet thriving alternative for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish their presence in the region without the high costs associated with other emirates like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Ajman Mainland Business Setup Advantages

Full Foreign Ownership

International businesses do not require a local Emirati sponsor to be a partner to operate, maintaining 100% ownership. Unless operating in certain strategic industries.

Cost-Effectiveness

Known for its relatively low setup costs compared to other emirates, including affordable office spaces and competitive licensing fees.

Tax Exemptions

Tax exemption for personal income tax and tax relief of up to $100,000 for corporate tax, especially for SMEs.

Diverse Business Activities

It allows a wide range of business activities under various licenses enabling businesses to operate in multiple sectors​.

Strategic Location

Ajman provides access to 4 ports and two international airports.

Supportive Government Policies

The government actively promotes entrepreneurship through streamlined procedures for obtaining licenses and permits and other initiatives.

Local Market Access

Setting up in Ajman allows businesses to tap into the local market, which has a growing population and increasing consumer demand across various sectors​.

Networking Opportunities

The thriving business community provides networking opportunities through various chambers of commerce and business associations.

Licenses Available in Ajman Mainland

  • Commercial License: For businesses engaged in trading activities, including retail and wholesale operations.
  • Professional License: For individuals or companies offering services like consulting, legal services, or medical practices.
  • Industrial License: For businesses involved in manufacturing and industrial activities.
  • Tourism License: For businesses in the tourism sector such as travel agencies, tour operators and others.
  • Agricultural License: Businesses involved in farming and related services.
  • Home-Based Business License: This allows individuals to operate various service based businesses from their homes.
  • E-commerce License: For businesses engaged in e-commerce and online retail.
  • Branch License: This is for foreign companies wishing to establish a branch in Ajman.

Ajman Mainland Business Setup Process

Timeline: 2 to 6 weeks

01 Choose a Business Activity

Select a business activity that aligns with your intended operations. 

02  Select a Legal Structure

Decide on the legal structure of your business, such as:

  • Sole Proprietorship
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC)
  • Branch Office (for existing local or foreign companies)

03  Register Trade Name

Choose a unique trade name that complies with the regulations and register it with the ADED. 

Takes 1 to 2 days

04  Obtain Initial Approval

Submit an application for initial approval from the ADED, this indicates the government has no objection to your business activity and legal structure.

Takes 2 to 3 days

05 Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MOA)

If establishing an LLC, draft the MOA, it is a document outlining the business ownership structure and management.

Takes 1 to 2 days

06  Lease an Office Space

Secure an office space in Ajman Mainland. You’ll need to provide a tenancy contract (Ejari) to proceed with the licensing process.

Takes 1 to 3 days 

07  Get Approvals from Relevant Authorities (if required)

Some business activities require special approvals from other authorities (e.g., healthcare, real estate, education).

Takes 2 to 4 weeks 

08 Submit Final Application

Submit the final application, initial approval, MOA, office lease and other required documents to ADED.

Takes 3 to 5 days

09Pay License Fees

Pay the applicable fees for the trade license, ADED fees, commercial license costs, and any related administrative fees.

Takes 1 day

10Receive Trade License

After payment, you will receive your Ajman Mainland trade license, officially allowing you to start your business operations.

Takes 1 to 2 days after payment

11 Apply for Visas

Apply for residence visas for yourself, shareholders, and employees, as per the company’s visa quota. 

Takes 1 to 2 weeks

Documents Required in Ajman Mainland

Required documents vary based on the legal structure of the business: Limited Liability Company, Sole Proprietorship and Branch Office.

Entity Type Required Documents
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Application form
Memorandum of Association (MoA)
Passport copies of shareholders and managers
Proof of address for shareholders and managers
Initial approval certificate
Lease agreement for office space
Additional approvals (if applicable)
Sole Proprietorship Passport copy of the owner
Proof of residence
Trade name reservation certificate
Business plan (optional)
Lease agreement for office space
Branch Office Parent company's trade license
Passport copy of the manager
Trade name reservation certificate
Lease agreement for office space
Initial approval from Ajman DED

License Cost in Ajman Mainland

The cost of setting up a business in Ajman Mainland varies depending on the type of license you require, the starting price of all licenses is AED 8,000.

In addition to the license fees, other potential costs include office space, which can vary significantly based on location and size. Local sponsor fees if applicable and visa and permit costs also add to the overall expenses.

*Note the price is an estimate and will vary in reality. For an accurate cost breakdown, get in touch with our consultants.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to have 100% ownership of mainland companies as an expat?
How do you register a company in Ajman Mainland?
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