Business Setup
Company Formation
Bank Account Opening
Visa Services
Industrial License
For companies involved in manufacturing and production. Holders can import raw materials, manufacture goods, and export products. To qualify, companies must be GCC-registered, and subsidiaries need 51% GCC ownership.
Trading License
For businesses buying and selling goods within the UAE and internationally. This license covers import, export, and re-export activities. Ajman offers both general trading (for various goods) and specific trading licenses (for particular goods).
Service License
For individuals or companies providing specialized services like consulting, education, legal, or engineering services. Allows 100% foreign ownership with a Local Service Agent (LSA) to handle legal requirements without ownership rights.
E-Commerce
With the growth of online shopping in the UAE, e-commerce licenses are in high demand. This license lets businesses sell goods and services online and handle imports and exports. Ajman’s location near logistics hubs makes it ideal for e-commerce businesses.
Select a Legal Structure
Choose the Legal Structure
Select an appropriate legal structure for your company, such as an LLC, sole proprietorship, or branch office. LLCs are common for foreign investors due to limited liability and flexibility, but some structures, like partnerships, are limited to UAE nationals.
Reserve a Trade Name
Submit an application to reserve your business name with the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Ajman. The name must adhere to UAE naming conventions, which means it should not include offensive terms or reference to religious or political institutions.
Obtain Initial Approvals
Arrange a Local Sponsor (if applicable)
If your business structure requires a local sponsor (e.g., for foreign-owned LLCs in certain sectors), identify a UAE national or locally-owned entity to hold 51% ownership. Sponsors typically provide support in meeting local legal requirements but do not engage in company operations.
Lease a Physical Office Space
Submit Final Documentation
Pay License Fees
Obtain the Business License
Open a Corporate Bank Account
Apply for Visas
Physical Office Space
Businesses must have a physical office in Ajman Mainland, verified by the municipality, to operate legally.
Local Sponsor Requirement
For commercial and trading businesses, a local UAE sponsor must hold 51% ownership, while providing no direct control over operations.
Compliance with Laws
Companies must follow UAE labor laws, including fair hiring practices and employee benefits, like end-of-service gratuity.
Memorandum of Association
LLCs need a notarized MOA, a legal document that defines ownership, partner roles, and key business rules.
Ultimate Beneficial Ownership
Businesses must disclose their main owner to promote transparency and prevent illegal activities.
Anti-Money Laundering
Companies must comply with AML rules to prevent illegal transactions and promote ethical financial practices.
Cost-Effective Setup
Strategic Location
Business-Friendly Environment
Tax Benefits
Diverse Economic Opportunities
Real Estate Investment
100% Foreign Ownership
Allows full foreign ownership without a local sponsor, ideal for international investors.
Tax Benefits
Free zones offer tax exemptions and easy profit repatriation.
Streamlined Setup
Faster and simpler setup process with fewer regulations.
Best for Export and B2B
Suitable for businesses focused on export, manufacturing, or B2B services.
Access to the Local Market
Mainland companies can trade freely in the UAE, ideal for retail and services.
Wide Range of Business Activities
Offers more flexibility in business types compared to free zones.
Physical Presence
Requires an office or warehouse, allowing direct interaction with local customers.
No Trade Restrictions
Can operate anywhere in the UAE, allowing to expand freely without geographical limitations.
Professional Company
For professionals like doctors and lawyers. Foreigners can own 100%, but a Local Service Agent is needed for legal matters.
Sole Establishment
Owned by one person with full liability for debts. Foreign owners need a UAE Local Service Agent to set up.
Branch Office
Branch Office Allows foreign companies to open a branch in Ajman Mainland, with the parent company responsible for all liabilities.
Representative Office
Primarily for marketing; it can’t conduct sales or generate revenue directly.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Popular structure allowing 2-50 shareholders, with liability limited to invested capital. Foreigners can own 100% in most sectors.
Private Joint Stock Company (PJSC)
For large businesses needing significant investment. Requires at least three shareholders and 51% UAE national ownership.
We are here to provide comprehensive support for your Business Setup in Ajman Mainland, from preparing your documents to completing the process. Connect with us now to begin your journey with a FREE consultation!
