Mainland Company Formation in Ajman

Business Setup In Ajman Mainland

Ajman Mainland is a smart choice for entrepreneurs seeking affordable business setup in the UAE. With low startup costs, simplified licensing, and a central location near Dubai and Sharjah, it offers excellent opportunities for trading and services. The emirate supports 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, making it ideal for startups and SMEs aiming to grow across the UAE.

Benefits of Establishing Your Company in Ajman Mainland:

  • 100% Foreign Ownership: Available in many sectors without the need for a local sponsor.
  • Affordable Licensing Fees: Lower setup and renewal costs compared to other emirates.
  • Strategic Location: Close proximity to Dubai and Sharjah for easy access to wider markets.
  • No Currency Restrictions: Full repatriation of profits and capital.
  • Access to Mainland UAE Market: Freedom to trade directly within the UAE without limitations.
  • Simplified Business Setup: Fast registration and streamlined government processes.
  • Diverse Business Activities: Suitable for trading, services, manufacturing, and industrial sectors.
  • Skilled Workforce Availability: Access to local and international talent.
  • Supportive Regulatory Environment: Business-friendly laws and investor-focused initiatives.
  • Reliable Infrastructure: Modern utilities, logistics support, and industrial zones.
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Advantages of Business Setup In Ajman Mainland

Setting up a business in Ajman Mainland comes with several key benefits that make it an attractive option for both local and foreign investors:

Nationwide Trade Freedom

Ajman’s strategic location in the heart of the UAE offers convenient access to key cities such as Dubai and Sharjah.

Cost-Effective

Ajman offers one of the most affordable environments in the UAE for starting and running a business, with low licensing fees, competitive rental rates, and minimal overhead costs.

100% Foreign Ownership

New business laws in the UAE support 100% foreign ownership in approved sectors, offering greater independence to international investors.

Diverse Business Activities

Ajman Mainland allows for a wide range of licensed business activities, including commercial, industrial, and professional services, giving investors flexibility in choosing their business model.

Tax Benefits

Ajman offers a highly attractive tax regime for investors, featuring no personal income tax and 0% corporate tax for most business activities—aligning with the broader UAE tax framework.

Government Collaboration

Mainland companies are eligible to bid for government projects and contracts, a significant advantage for businesses targeting public sector work.

High Quality of Life

Ajman provides an excellent standard of living, featuring affordable housing, reputable educational institutions, modern healthcare services, and a peaceful, family-friendly environment—making it a desirable location for both business owners and residents.

Quick Licensing & Setup

With the support of an experienced consultancy like Brightlink Management, business registration and licensing can be completed within just a few working days.

Modern Infrastructure

Ajman features modern infrastructure that supports business operations, including reliable transportation systems, advanced digital connectivity, well-equipped industrial zones, and proximity to key logistics hubs, making it an ideal environment for companies of all sizes.

Residency Opportunities

Entrepreneurs and staff setting up in Ajman Mainland can secure UAE residency visas, granting access to local banking, healthcare, education, and hassle-free travel across GCC countries and beyond.

Startup-Friendly Environment

Ajman fosters a supportive business climate with streamlined regulations, investor-centric policies, and government initiatives aimed at empowering startups and SMEs to grow and thrive.

Government-Backed Support

The Ajman government plays an active role in fostering business growth by offering incentives, simplified regulations, and development programs that encourage entrepreneurship and attract foreign investment.

Wider Market Access

Ajman mainland businesses enjoy unrestricted access to both UAE domestic markets and global trade routes, thanks to the emirate’s strategic location and well-connected logistics infrastructure.

Strategic Location

Ajman’s strategic location in the heart of the UAE offers convenient access to key cities such as Dubai and Sharjah.

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Why Choose Ajman for Your Business Setup?

Ajman has steadily emerged as a top destination for entrepreneurs and investors in the UAE. Its strategic advantages, cost-efficiency, and investor-friendly infrastructure make it a preferred choice for startups and SMEs alike. Here are some of the key benefits that set Ajman apart:

1. Cost-Effective Business Environment

Ajman offers one of the most affordable environments for starting a business in the UAE. From low trade license fees to budget-friendly office rentals, entrepreneurs can set up operations without heavy capital investment. It’s also the most economical emirate for registering a Limited Liability Company (LLC).

2. Strategic Location with Seamless Connectivity

Located near Dubai and Sharjah, Ajman is ideally positioned for domestic and international trade. The emirate provides excellent access to four major seaports and two international airports, making it highly attractive for logistics, import/export, and manufacturing businesses.

3. Flexible Leasing Options for Industrial and Commercial Spaces

Ajman’s flexible lease terms—especially for warehouses, factories, and showrooms—make it an appealing option for manufacturing and trading companies. The emirate is particularly well-suited for businesses involved in material processing, distribution, and production.

4. Broad Range of Business Activities and Licenses

Entrepreneurs in Ajman have access to a wide selection of business license types, including:

  • Commercial License
  • Industrial License
  • Professional License
  • E-Commerce License
  • General Maintenance License

These options allow businesses to operate in diverse sectors while enjoying specific industry-related benefits.

5. Infrastructure and Sector-Specific Incentives

Ajman boasts a modern infrastructure network, including an advanced road system that supports efficient transportation and delivery services. Sector-specific benefits, such as incentives for industrial development, enhance the emirate’s appeal for specialized businesses.

Available Business Structures in Ajman Mainland

Choosing the right legal structure is critical to your business’s growth and compliance. Here are the company structures available in Ajman:

  • Sole Proprietorship: Owned and managed by a single individual. Ideal for freelancers and small service providers.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC): Offers flexibility and limited liability. Suitable for most commercial ventures.
  • Branch of a Foreign Company: Enables existing international businesses to open a branch in Ajman.
  • Representative Office: Can promote the parent company’s products/services without engaging in direct business activities.
  • Civil Company / Professional Company: Meant for professionals such as consultants, engineers, and service providers.
  • Private Joint Stock Company (PJSC): Suitable for large-scale ventures with multiple shareholders.
  • Public Joint Stock Company: For businesses looking to raise capital through public offerings.
Professional License

This license is issued to individuals and companies offering specialized services to the public or other businesses. Eligible professionals include financial auditors, chartered accountants, engineers, IT consultants, and other technical service providers.

General Maintenance License

This license covers essential property maintenance services, including electrical work, plumbing, painting, HVAC services, and repairs. Given Ajman’s regulatory emphasis on building safety and infrastructure, these services are consistently in high demand.

Commercial (Trading) License

A Commercial License allows companies to trade goods locally and internationally. Businesses can import, export, re-export, or distribute products, including those with added value. This is ideal for general traders and businesses involved in supply chains.

Industrial License

Companies involved in manufacturing or industrial operations require an Industrial License. To be eligible, firms must be registered within the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), which includes the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait. This license supports industries such as textiles, packaging, and construction materials.

E-Commerce License

With over 40% of UAE residents shopping online, Ajman has emerged as a hotspot for digital entrepreneurs. Its proximity to Dubai and Sharjah makes it a strategic location for launching online businesses. The E-Commerce License enables companies to sell products or services through websites, apps, or online marketplaces.

How To Set Up A Business in Ajman Mainland

Step-by-Step Guide to Set Up Your Business Under an Ajman Mainland License

Establishing a business in Ajman Mainland is a strategic move for entrepreneurs looking to benefit from low setup costs and high growth potential in the UAE. The process is regulated by the Ajman Department of Economic Development (Ajman DED) and involves the following steps:

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity

Begin by selecting your business activity from the list approved by the Ajman Department of Economic Development (Ajman DED). This will determine the type of license you need—Commercial, Professional, Industrial, or E-commerce.

Step 2: Decide the Legal Structure

Choose the legal form of your company, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Establishment, Civil Company, or Branch of a Foreign Company, depending on your business goals and ownership structure.

Step 3: Reserve a Trade Name

Submit your preferred trade names for approval. The name should comply with UAE regulations, avoid offensive terms, and must not duplicate existing registered names.

Step 4: Obtain Initial Approval

Apply for initial approval from Ajman DED to confirm that your selected business activity and proposed trade name are acceptable. This approval allows you to proceed with the rest of the setup process.

Step 5: Lease a Commercial Space

Secure a physical office or retail space in Ajman. You must obtain a tenancy contract and register the lease with the Ajman Real Estate Regulatory Agency (ARRA).

Step 6: Get External Approvals if Required

For certain business activities like food, healthcare, education, or security services, external approvals from relevant regulatory bodies may be required before final license issuance.

Step 7: Prepare and Submit Final Documents

Gather and submit all required documents including passport copies of all shareholders, lease agreement, trade name certificate, initial approval, and the Memorandum of Association (for LLCs).

Step 8: Pay Fees and Collect Your License

Pay the necessary license issuance and government fees. Once your application is approved, the Ajman DED will issue your mainland trade license, officially registering your business.

Step 9: Apply for Visas and Bank Account

After obtaining your trade license, apply for residence visas for partners and employees if needed, and proceed to open a corporate bank account to manage business transactions efficiently.

Brightlink Management Consultancy can assist you throughout this process, offering expert guidance and support to ensure a smooth and compliant business setup in Ajman Mainland.

Despite being the smallest emirate in the UAE, Ajman offers remarkable opportunities for business growth. Strategically nestled between Sharjah and Dubai, Ajman is part of the thriving tri-city zone, offering easy access to two major Emirates. The emirate’s central location, cost-efficiency, and investor-friendly policies make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs.

Ajman is just a 35-minute drive from Dubai and features its own seaport, which services over 1,000 vessels annually. Its GDP exceeds USD 4.2 billion, with steady annual growth in key sectors such as logistics, storage, and communication. Ajman is currently constructing its own international airport, further enhancing its logistics and trade potential by targeting 400,000 tonnes of cargo and one million passengers per year.

Another major attraction for global investors is Ajman’s real estate sector, particularly after it opened up 100% foreign ownership of freehold properties.

How to Establish a Company in Ajman

The first step to setting up your business in Ajman is clearly identifying your business activity—whether you plan to operate a service-based firm, a trading company, or a combination of multiple business activities.

Choosing the Right Business Zone

Once your activity is defined, decide whether to operate in the mainland or one of Ajman’s two free zones:

  • Ajman Free Zone – Ideal for commercial and industrial activities with tax exemptions.
  • Ajman Media City Free Zone – Suited for creative, digital, and media businesses.

Mainland setup is generally preferred for businesses dealing directly with consumers (B2C), while free zones are better suited for B2B operations or businesses with an international focus.

Required Documents for Business Setup in Ajman

To register your company in Ajman, you will need:

  • Copy of Passport
  • Two recent passport-sized photographs (white background)
  • Proof of address from country of residence
  • Emirates ID and UAE visa copy (if applicable)

These documents must be submitted by all shareholders, as each partner is typically eligible for an investor visa.

Tax Benefits & Regulatory Environment

Ajman Free Zones offer a tax-efficient business environment:

  • No 5% VAT on transactions within or between free zones
  • Exemption from 9% UAE Corporate Tax (applies only to mainland entities earning over AED 375,000 per year)

Mainland businesses, however, enjoy direct access to local markets and customers, making them ideal for retail, hospitality, and service sectors.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—the right jurisdiction depends on your target audience and business model.

Business Structures Available in Ajman

Depending on your business activity, the appropriate legal structure could be:

  • Sole Proprietorship
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC)
  • Professional Company (Civil Company)
  • Branch or Representative Office of a Foreign Company
  • Free Zone Company (FZC or FZE) – for 100% foreign ownership within free zones

Professional activities—such as legal, medical, or engineering services—require a Professional License. While no UAE national sponsor is needed, appointing a Local Service Agent (LSA) is mandatory.

Start Your Business in Ajman Mainland with Brightlink

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Frequently Asked Questions

Sole Proprietorship: Owned by a single individual.
Limited Liability Company (LLC): Requires at least two and a maximum of fifty shareholders.
Branch Office: Can be a branch of a foreign company or a branch of a UAE company.
Representative Office: Set up to market and promote the products and services of the parent company.

100% foreign ownership is allowed for certain business activities.
No personal income tax or capital gain tax.
Strategic location with access to both local and international markets.
Simplified company formation process.
Cost-effective setup and operational costs.

There is no specific minimum share capital requirement; however, it is generally advised to have sufficient capital to support the business activities.

Passport copies of the shareholders and managers.
No objection certificate (NOC) from the current sponsor (if applicable).
Copy of the residence visa (if applicable).
Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA).
Lease agreement for office premises.
Business plan for certain activities.

The setup process usually takes about 1-2 weeks, depending on the type of business and the completeness of the documentation

Certain business activities may require special approvals from relevant government authorities. It is advisable to check with the Ajman Department of Economic Development (Ajman DED) for specific requirements related to your business activity.

Yes, company shareholders, managers, and employees can apply for UAE residence visas under the company’s sponsorship.

Companies must renew their trade license annually. This typically involves submitting updated documents, paying renewal fees, and ensuring compliance with any regulatory requirements.

The cost can vary based on the type of business, office location, and other factors. It generally includes fees for trade name registration, initial approval, licensing, and office rent

Yes, having a physical office is a requirement. The office space must meet the size and location requirements as stipulated by the Ajman DED.

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