Ajman Free Zone (For American Investors)
Ajman Free Zone is one of the oldest and most popular Free Zones in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Established in 1988, it is located in the Emirate of Ajman, just 40 minutes from Dubai. Ajman is growing fast as an industrial and manufacturing hub and has plenty of opportunities for USA businesses looking to expand into the Middle East.
Benefits for American Investors
Ajman Free Zone gives complete freedom and comfort to US investors with 100% foreign ownership of the business. Located near a seaport, this free zone is perfect for all types of businesses – freelancers, small businesses, light manufacturing and trading companies. The location makes it a great option for US businesses looking to tap into the UAE’s booming economy.
Advantages for Entrepreneurs
For American entrepreneurs looking to set up business in the UAE, Ajman Free Zone has many options and exposure. The Free Zone authority offers flexible payment plans for new company registration, making it easy for USA startups and SMEs. The low cost makes it a great option for new business owners from the USA to establish a strong presence in the UAE.
Types of Free Zones in Ajman
Ajman Free Zone: also known as AFZA, is a free trade zone located in the Emirate of Ajman, UAE. Established in 1988, it’s a great option for US investors to set up and operate an offshore company. One of the few unbonded free zones in the UAE, AFZA offers 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits and an easy registration process. For USA entrepreneurs, AFZA is a cost-effective entry point into the UAE’s business landscape.
Ajman Media City (AMC), also known as AMC, was launched to promote competitiveness and innovation among local and regional businesses. It’s a vibrant and professional environment designed for media companies. USA media professionals and entrepreneurs can take advantage of AMC’s various licensing packages and flexible business setup options. Whether you’re a freelancer, SME or a larger media company from the USA, AMC has the infrastructure and regulatory support to help your business grow in the UAE.
Benefits of Ajman Free Zone
Low cost and efficient – Ajman Free Zone is a favorite among US entrepreneurs and startups due to the low cost business setup options. It welcomes all sizes of businesses from small to medium sized companies. US investors can set up with minimal initial investment and then scale up cost effectively. It’s one of the most affordable free zones in the UAE making it very attractive for US SME.
Open to multiple business types -Ajman Free Zone caters to various industries like general trading, industrial and professional activities. USA traders and business owners looking for an Ajman trading license will find it a great option. Also the free zone offers e-commerce licenses – a feature not available in other UAE free zones making it ideal for US e-commerce startups.
Multiple visa options: Ajman Free Zone has different business packages to cater to different visa requirements. US business owners new to the UAE can opt for office packages like the Smart Office package (3 visas) or the Executive Office package (5 visas). Flexible packages like Flexi-desk offer shared office space, meeting rooms and equipment without the need for permanent desk rentals – perfect for USA entrepreneurs testing the UAE market.
Business setup fees can be paid in instalments: A big plus for US investors is that business setup fees can be paid in instalments. Ajman Free Zone is the only free zone in UAE where businesses can start operating by paying just a portion of the setup costs upfront. This is a big help for US startups with limited initial capital to set up in the UAE.
Best location: Ajman Free Zone is located very strategically. It’s near major UAE seaports and international airports, making import-export activities easy. With good road links to neighbouring Emirates and just 30 minutes drive from Dubai, US businesses can manage logistics and distribution across the region.
Offices & Warehouse Facility
- Warehouses – Ajman Free Zone warehouses are located around Ajman seaports, perfect for USA businesses to manage their logistics efficiently. The expanded ports are a big advantage for new US businesses setting up in Ajman Free Zone for smooth import and export.
- Flexi-desk – Flexi-desk is ideal for US entrepreneurs and freelancers, a hassle free, flexible workspace with no usage limits. These desks are available within Ajman Free Zone headquarters or nearby locations, a cost effective solution for US startups.
- Offices – Ajman Free Zone offices cater to all business needs, located within Free Zone headquarters, dedicated floors or nearby areas. Perfect for USA companies looking to set up business in the UAE with minimal investment and maximum convenience.
Types of license in Ajman Free Zone
For USA businesses manufacturing or producing in US, this license helps set up and operate an industrial unit.
For US traders and distributors, this license allows them to distribute goods and products across UAE, perfect for import-export businesses.
Covers various professional activities like consulting, design and technical services. US professionals can use this to establish themselves in the UAE market.
For USA entrepreneurs doing digital and online business, this license supports e-commerce and digital platforms.
This license allows USA companies to offer consulting services, salons, advertising, management and other service based businesses.
A special license for UAE based students and young entrepreneurs (20-30 years). American youth in UAE can use this cost effective startup option to launch their innovative ventures.
For American freelancers in media, IT, design and consulting. This license provides legal status, 3 year visa and affordable renewal structure, perfect for solo entrepreneurs.
Steps for Business Formation in Ajman Free Zone
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 USA 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. USA 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. USA businesses have competitive banking options.
Apply for a UAE residence visa for business owners, employees and dependents to establish a legal presence.
Flyingcolour assists USA entrepreneurs in all types of company registrations across the United Arab Emirates. We specialize in Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore company setups in every Emirate of the UAE, including Dubai, Ajman, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. Our team also facilitates smooth corporate bank account opening with leading local banks, making the entire process hassle-free for US businesses. By closely collaborating with UAE Government Departments and major banks, we ensure a seamless experience for USA clients setting up their business in the UAE.