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Business Setup in Ajman Mainland

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Business Setup in Ajman Mainland

Ajman, the fifth-largest city in the UAE, is different from other Emirates in terms of its deeply rooted heritage of hospitality and natural environment. The generosity of Ajman is not just limited to guests and visitors, the emirate is also warm and welcoming to businesses of all types.

Many entrepreneurs especially choose to set up a business in Ajman Mainland because of the amazing benefits it offers, including a strong logistics network, affordable setup, quick processes, and a diverse range of business activities.

With guidance from our experts at Dubiz Business Setup, you can establish your business in Ajman Mainland seamlessly with least efforts. We will help you with your approvals, licensing, and all immigration formalities. With us, starting a business in Ajman mainland could be actually easier than you think!

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Meaning of Ajman Mainland

Ajman Mainland offers the ideal environment for establishing a wide range of businesses. Outside the free zones in Ajman, rest of the area falls under the mainland jurisdiction, and it is already home to thousands of businesses and brands.

Ajman mainland companies are licensed and regulated by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of the Emirate. Mainland companies can engage in diverse activities such as industrial, trading, commercial, and professional services across the UAE, as well as in the global market.

Options of Business Licenses in Ajman Mainland

Choosing the right type of business license is the first step when planning a business setup in Ajman Mainland. Here are the options available:

  • Commercial License

    Commercial License

    Ajman Mainland offers a commercial license for businesses planning to engage in trading activities. With this license, products can be bought and sold, imported, and exported within the UAE and internationally.

  • Industrial License

    Industrial License

    Activities related to manufacturing, processing, assembling, and other industrial operations can be conducted under an industrial license. It is an ideal option for businesses looking to explore opportunities in the industrial sector.

  • Professional License

    Professional License

    Businesses or individuals looking to offer professional services based on skills and expertise are required to obtain a professional license. Supporting documents that validate experience/skills will be required while applying.

  • E-commerce License

    E-commerce License

    Tapping into the online marketplace is a smart choice made by many entrepreneurs. Ajman mainland also offers an e-commerce license, allowing businesses to sell products online via social media platforms, websites, and likewise.

Enjoy the Benefits of Doing Business in Ajman Mainland

Advantages of company setup in Ajman mainland:

  • 100% foreign ownership in most sectors.

  • Local plus international market access.

  • Flexible visa quotas depending on office size.

  • Chance to qualify for 0% corporate tax.

  • Opportunity to work on government contracts.

  • Strong and reliable infrastructure and logistics.

  • Fast and cost-effective business setup.

  • No minimum capital required for many businesses.

How Much Will Business License Cost You in Ajman Mainland?

The cost of business setup in Ajman mainland starts from around AED 17,500*. It typically includes license fees, PRO fees, approvals charges, MOA charges, and other required services.

Please note, the total cost depends on several factors such as the type of business license, number of visas required, office space, and more.

Talk to our experts at Dubiz Business Setup, who will guide you through the complete cost structure and help you set up your business efficiently.

General steps involved in Ajman mainland business setup

Ajman Mainland Business Setup Process

Through a simple procedure, you can start your business setup in Ajman Mainland. Our experts will take over most of the administrative and legal tasks for you, ensuring your business is launched in a cost-effective and time-efficient manner.
01.

Choose your business activity

Start by deciding the business activities you want to conduct. In Ajman Mainland, you can choose from broad industries like manufacturing, consulting, e-commerce, trading, healthcare, and much more.
02.

Decide the legal structure

Next, choose the legal structure of your business. It can be a sole establishment, a limited liability company, a joint stock company, a partnership firm, etc. The structure determines your tax obligations, ownership rights, and legal requirements.
03.

Register trade name

Decide on a suitable name for your business and get it registered with the authority in Ajman. The name must comply with the naming standards in place.
04.

Get the initial approval

Obtain the initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Ajman. This is the first permission required for setting up your business in Ajman Mainland.
05.

Get additional approvals, if needed

Many business sectors are regulated by specific government bodies. You will need to obtain permits from them if you plan to operate in any such sector (e.g., healthcare, real estate, environmental services).
06.

Lease office space

The next step is securing a suitable office space. You can either purchase or lease the office based on your business’s nature, size, and operational requirements.
07.

Prepare the legal documents

Prepare all the required legal documents such as the Memorandum of Association (MOA), lease agreement, and have them notarised. You will also need a passport copy, passport-sized photos, initial approval certificate, business plan, and other supporting documents.
08.

Obtain your license

Apply for the appropriate business license with Ajman DED. Fill out the license application form and submit it along with the required documents and fees. Once approved, your business license will be issued.
09.

Open business bank account

To carry out financial transactions, you must open a corporate bank account. Present your trade license copy and other necessary documents to the bank of your choice.
10.

Apply for the visas

The final step is to apply for visas for yourself, your employees, and dependents. The number of visas you can apply for (visa quota) depends on the size of your office space.

Documentation Requirement

General list of documents required for mainland company formation in Ajman:
Valid passport copies of all shareholders and partners
Passport-sized photographs of shareholders
Address proof of shareholders
Emirates ID and visa copies of each shareholder (if applicable)
Trade name approval certificate
Initial approval receipt
Additional approvals (if required for specific business activities)
Notarized Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Attested lease agreement

Need help with paperwork? Dubiz experts are always available to help.

Keep Your Business Legally Compliant in Ajman Mainland

Doing business the right way means staying compliant with all legal requirements. This not only protects your business reputation and builds trust but also helps you avoid unnecessary penalties and fines.

Here is the checklist of legal requirements for business setup in Ajman mainland:

Trade license requirement

Every business operating in Ajman Mainland must obtain a valid trade license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) to operate legally.

Physical office space

A municipality-approved physical office is mandatory for all businesses registered in Ajman Mainland.

Local sponsor requirement

For certain strategic sectors, a local Emirati sponsor is required, holding 51% ownership in the business. However, many activities now allow 100% foreign ownership.

UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Owner)

Companies must clearly declare the individuals who ultimately own or control the company. This ensures transparency, prevents illegal activities, and promotes trust.

AML compliance (Anti-Money Laundering)

Businesses must implement strong AML policies, conduct risk assessments, and train staff in AML best practices.

Tax compliance

Businesses must register for corporate tax and file returns. The standard corporate tax rate in the UAE applies at 9% on taxable income above the threshold (0% for income below that).

Profitable Business Sectors in Ajman

Check out the list:

  • Restaurants and cafes

  • Fashion and retail

  • Industrial and manufacturing

  • E-commerce and online retail

  • Hospitality and tourism

  • Consultancy services

  • Health and wellness

  • Sustainability initiatives

Types of Legal Entities in Ajman Mainland

Some popular legal structures in Ajman Mainland include:

  • Sole Proprietorship:

    Sole Proprietorship:

    Start and run the business as a single owner. Profits, control, and decisions are all in your hands. An LSA may be required.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC):

    Limited Liability Company (LLC):

    Minimum of 1 and maximum of 50 shareholders start the company, and their liability is limited to their respective stake in the company.
  • Civil Company:

    Civil Company:

    Professionals like doctors and lawyers can come together and start a company to offer services.
  • Branch:

    Branch:

    Existing companies (foreign or GCC) can open their branch in Ajman Mainland and operate under the parent company’s name.
  • Partnership Firm:

    Partnership Firm:

    Two or more partners can start and run a business and share profits, losses, and liabilities.
  • Joint Stock Company:

    Joint Stock Company:

    Can be privately or publicly held. Typically, suitable for businesses that need a large amount of capital.

How Dubiz Business Setup Helps?

Dubiz offers comprehensive, hands-on support you need to start your business in Ajman Mainland. Our experts will guide you through every step, including obtaining your trade license, opening a business bank account, securing visas, and handling all other essential requirements.
With over 8 years of experience, we have helped thousands of entrepreneurs launch their businesses successfully across different parts of UAE. You can count on us to deliver top-notch service that keeps both you and your business happy!
  • Proven experience and success in the industry
  • Dedicated team of experts, PROs, and qualified accountants
  • Established and trusted relationships with local authorities
  • Comprehensive company formation solutions under one roof
  • Cost-effective, transparent pricing with no hidden fees
  • Ongoing, hands-on support to ensure full legal compliance
Book Your Free Consultation Today →

FAQs on Business Setup in Ajman Mainland

It can take a few days to a few weeks to complete a business setup in Ajman Mainland. The timeline may vary depending on your specific business circumstances and requirements.

Ajman DED (Department of Economic Development), the Municipality, and the Ministry of Labour are some of the key authorities involved in business setup in Ajman Mainland. The main responsibilities for licensing and registration fall under the DED.

Yes, Ajman is a good and popular place to start a business, especially for startups, SMEs, and entrepreneurs looking for cost-effective business setup options.

Yes, starting a business in Ajman is generally cheaper than in Dubai, with lesser company incorporation fees, office rentals, and overall operational costs.

The Ajman mainland license cost (government cost) starts from AED 9,000*.