Ajman Free Zone (For UK Investors)
Ajman Free Zone is one of the UAE’s most established and reputable free zones, founded in 1988. Located in the Emirate of Ajman, just 40 minutes from central Dubai, it offers UK investors a strategic gateway to the Middle East. With its close proximity to major transport links and a strong focus on industrial and manufacturing sectors, Ajman Free Zone is an ideal choice for UK startups and SMEs looking to expand their global footprint with ease and affordability.
Benefits for UK Investors
Ajman Free Zone offers UK investors full ownership and total operational flexibility. Positioned near a key UAE seaport, it supports a broad range of business activities—from solo entrepreneurs and small firms to international trading and light manufacturing operations. With low setup costs, streamlined processes, and easy access to the UAE and GCC markets, Ajman Free Zone is a smart, strategic choice for British businesses aiming to expand in the Middle East.
Advantages for Entrepreneurs
For UK entrepreneurs aiming to expand into the UAE, Ajman Free Zone offers an ideal launchpad. Known for its flexible company registration plans and affordable setup fees, it provides a low-barrier entry for British startups and small businesses. With strong market exposure, supportive regulations, and a hassle-free registration process, Ajman Free Zone empowers UK businesses to establish a solid presence in the UAE and access wider Middle East opportunities.
Ajman Free zone : Also known as AFZA, the Ajman Free Zone is a thriving free trade zone in the Emirate of Ajman, UAE, established in 1988. It’s an ideal choice for UK investors looking to set up and operate an offshore or free zone company. As one of the few unbonded free zones in the UAE, AFZA offers 100% foreign ownership, attractive tax advantages, and a streamlined registration process. For British entrepreneurs, it serves as a cost-effective and strategic entry into the UAE’s expanding business environment.
Ajman Media City (AMC), Also known as AMC, Ajman Media City was launched to promote innovation and competitiveness within the regional and international media landscape. Designed specifically for media professionals, it offers a dynamic and supportive environment for creative businesses. UK-based freelancers, SMEs, and established media companies can benefit from AMC’s flexible licensing packages, cost-effective setup options, and business-friendly regulations. With its modern infrastructure and streamlined processes, AMC is an excellent base for UK entrepreneurs aiming to grow their media ventures in the UAE.

Cost-effective and efficient, Ajman Free Zone is a preferred choice among UK entrepreneurs and startups due to its low-cost business setup options. It accommodates businesses of all sizes, from freelancers and micro-enterprises to growing SMEs. UK investors can launch operations with minimal upfront investment and scale their business as needed. As one of the most affordable free zones in the UAE, Ajman Free Zone offers excellent value, making it a smart choice for UK-based small businesses looking to expand into the Middle East.
Ajman Free Zone supports a wide range of business activities including general trading, industrial, and professional services—making it ideal for UK-based entrepreneurs and SMEs. Whether you're seeking a trading licence in Ajman or exploring e-commerce opportunities, this free zone offers flexible setup options. Notably, Ajman Free Zone provides e-commerce licences—an offering not commonly available in other UAE free zones—making it an excellent choice for UK online retailers and digital startups.
Ajman Free Zone offers multiple visa options to suit different business needs. UK entrepreneurs entering the UAE market can benefit from tailored office packages such as the Smart Office package (up to 3 visas) or the Executive Office package (up to 5 visas). For startups and consultants testing the waters, the Flexi-desk option provides access to shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and business facilities—without the cost of a full-time office. These flexible solutions are ideal for UK businesses looking for a low-risk, scalable setup in the UAE.
Ajman Free Zone stands out as the only UAE free zone that allows UK entrepreneurs to pay their business setup fees in easy installments. This flexible payment option enables you to launch your company by covering just a portion of the total cost upfront—ideal for UK startups and small businesses with limited initial investment. It’s a practical and budget-friendly entry into the UAE market, making business ownership more accessible than ever.
Ajman Free Zone offers UK businesses a prime location with excellent connectivity. Situated near key UAE seaports and international airports, it simplifies import-export operations for British entrepreneurs. Just a 30-minute drive from Dubai and with strong road links to other Emirates, it’s an ideal logistics hub for UK companies looking to distribute goods across the Gulf region efficiently.

For UK-based manufacturers and producers, this licence enables the setup and operation of an industrial unit within the UAE..
For UK-based manufacturers and producers, this licence enables the setup and operation of an industrial unit within the UAE.
Covers a wide range of professional activities such as consultancy, design, and technical services. UK professionals can utilise this licence to establish a strong presence in the UAE market.
Ideal for UK entrepreneurs running digital businesses—this licence supports e-commerce ventures and online platform operations within the UAE.
This licence allows UK-based companies to offer a wide range of service-oriented activities in the UAE, including consulting, salons, advertising, and management services.
A special licence designed for UAE-based students and young entrepreneurs aged 20–30. UK youth residing in the UAE can benefit from this cost-effective startup option to launch innovative business ventures with minimal investment.
Ideal for UK-based freelancers in media, IT, design, and consulting. This licence offers legal recognition, a 3-year residency visa, and an affordable renewal structure—perfect for solo entrepreneurs seeking a stable base in the UAE.
Choose the right business activities for your Ajman Free Zone setup based on your company and UAE market.
Select a reliable legal structure for your business, FZC (Free Zone Company) or FZE (Free Zone Establishment) as per UK business preferences.
Register your company’s trade name as per Ajman Free Zone regulations. Make sure your chosen name is your brand and unique.
Lease an office space or flexi-desk in Ajman Free Zone. UK startups can opt for flexi-desks to save costs.
Submit your license application (Industrial, Commercial, E-commerce or any suitable type) to Ajman Free Zone authorities.
Submit all required documents, passport copies, business plans and approvals to Free Zone authorities.
Pay for business setup in Ajman Free Zone and upon approval get your business license.
Open a corporate account in a UAE bank for smooth transactions. UK businesses have competitive banking options.
Apply for a UAE residence visa for business owners, employees and dependents to establish a legal presence.
Flyingcolour® supports UK entrepreneurs with comprehensive company formation services across the United Arab Emirates. We specialise in setting up Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore companies in all Emirates, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman. Our expert team also assists with corporate bank account openings through trusted UAE banking institutions, ensuring a smooth and compliant process. By working closely with UAE government departments and financial entities, we help UK businesses establish a successful presence in the UAE with ease and confidence.