Set Up a Company in Ajman Free Zone: 2026 Guide
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is one of the UAE’s most established and cost-accessible business destinations. Founded in 1988, the free zone has grown steadily over more than three decades to host more than 9,000 companies from over 165 countries, spanning industries from food and beverage to automotive, technology, and textiles.
If you are looking for a business base in the UAE’s Northern Emirates that offers 100% foreign ownership, a fully digital registration process, and direct access to Ajman Port, AFZ is worth a close look. Whether you are a solo freelancer, a trading SME, or a foreign company wanting to establish a UAE branch, the free zone has a legal structure and licence type to match your needs.
This guide walks you through everything: the regulator, company types, licence categories, setup steps, required documents, costs, visa entitlements, facilities, and how AFZ compares to other UAE free zone options. All information is sourced directly from the official AFZ website (afz.gov.ae) and the Ajman Government’s Department of Digital Ajman portal (ajman.ae).
What is Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) and who regulates it?
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is Ajman’s flagship special economic zone. It was established in 1988 and was subsequently granted full independent status by H.H. Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman. That independent status gives AFZ the authority to issue its own business licences, regulate the companies operating within its boundaries, and manage its own facilities and services.
According to the official AFZ company profile on afz.gov.ae, the zone today serves more than 9,000 companies from over 165 countries. Its business ecosystem spans more than 20 sectors, including agriculture, automotive, chemicals, construction, education, entertainment, food and beverages, healthcare, insurance, jewellery, legal services, marine, media, oil and gas, packaging, real estate, shipping, sport, technology, and textiles.
AFZ is physically located in the heart of the Northern Emirates, with direct access to Ajman Port and strong road connectivity to Dubai and Sharjah. Both Sharjah International Airport and Dubai International Airport are within easy reach, which makes AFZ a practical choice for businesses involved in the movement of goods as well as those serving regional and international markets.
In 2021, AFZ was ranked 7th globally at the Global Free Zone of the Year Awards by FDI Intelligence, a publication of the Financial Times Group. That recognition reflects the zone’s investment in infrastructure, digital services, and investor support over recent years.
Today, AFZ operates as a fully digital free zone. Business registration, licence renewals, visa applications, document requests, and most administrative processes are all managed through the AFZ customer portal at eportal.afz.gov.ae, or via the AFZ mobile app, which is available on both iOS and Android. This means investors can manage their entire company life cycle without needing to visit a physical office, which is a meaningful advantage for internationally based entrepreneurs.
AFZ also operates an AFZ+ programme, which gives registered companies access to value-added services including banking introductions, medical support, insurance, and assistance in identifying niche markets. This ecosystem of support services makes AFZ more than just a licence issuer; it positions itself as a long-term partner for business growth.
What types of companies can I register in Ajman Free Zone?
AFZ accommodates four distinct legal structures for company registration, as set out on the official types-of-business page at afz.gov.ae. Choosing the right structure depends on your ownership situation, where your business is currently incorporated, and the activities you plan to carry out.
Freezone Establishment (FZE)
A Freezone Establishment is a single-shareholder entity that operates as a fully independent corporate body under AFZ’s jurisdiction. This is the structure of choice for individual investors who want sole ownership and complete control over their business. There is no requirement to bring on a local partner or sponsor. FZE holders enjoy 100% foreign ownership from day one.
Documents required with the application form: a passport copy valid for at least six months, a coloured photograph, a No Objection Letter (NOC) from the applicant’s sponsor if the applicant holds a UAE residence visa, and a visa copy or UID number.
Freezone Company (FZC)
A Freezone Company is the structure used when two or more shareholders are forming a company together. This is broadly equivalent to a free zone limited liability company. The business can carry out commercial, industrial/manufacturing, or services activities. Each shareholder must provide their own passport copy (valid at least six months), coloured photograph, NOC from their sponsor if they are UAE residents, and visa copy or UID.
Branch of a Local Company
This structure is for businesses that already hold a valid trade licence issued by any other UAE licensing authority and want to extend their operations into AFZ. The parent company retains ownership, and the branch operates under the same ownership structure. Documents required include a passport copy, coloured photograph, and visa copy or UID for the company manager, plus copies of the parent company’s trade licence, MOA, and board resolution.
Branch of a Foreign Company
This option is for companies incorporated outside the UAE that want to establish a legal presence in Ajman. According to AFZ’s official guidance, the branch is granted 100% foreign ownership. One important limitation: sales into the UAE domestic market must be conducted through a UAE-registered agent or distributor; direct selling to UAE end customers is not permitted without one.
Documents required include a passport copy, coloured photograph, and visa copy for the company manager, plus the parent company’s trade licence copy, MOA, and board resolution. Where the parent company itself is a corporate entity, a power of attorney authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a certificate of incorporation may also be required.
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What licence types are available in Ajman Free Zone?
AFZ currently issues eight main licence categories, each covering a distinct type of business activity. The following is based on the official AFZ licence types page and the Department of Digital Ajman’s free zone licence guidance on ajman.ae.
Business (Commercial) Licence
The Business Licence grants the holder the right to store, import, export, and distribute products across the UAE. It is available in four sub-categories: one activity, two activities, three activities, and General Trading (which covers a broad range of commodities). This licence works with a wide range of facility types, including executive offices, business centres, warehouses, eco-friendly warehouses, and leased land.
Industrial / Manufacturing Licence
The Industrial Licence is designed for companies that manufacture or assemble goods within the free zone. Holders may import raw materials, carry out manufacturing operations in accordance with UAE environmental and industrial standards, and export finished products abroad. According to the Department of Digital Ajman’s guidance, this licence “attracts specialised investors in the industries who aspire to conduct their operations from the United Arab Emirates.” It is best paired with warehouse facilities or leased land.
Services Licence
The Services Licence covers professional services activities, such as management consultancy, IT consultancy, market research, engineering services, and similar knowledge-based offerings. If your business provides expertise rather than physical goods, this is likely your licence type.
E-Commerce Licence
For businesses that trade primarily online, the E-Commerce Licence comes with access to the AFZ E-Commerce Hub, a co-working environment specifically for online retailers and digital entrepreneurs. The hub provides networking opportunities and a community of like-minded businesses, along with practical support for building an e-commerce operation.
Pioneers Package
The Pioneers Package is a specialist entry package for first-time entrepreneurs and early-stage startups. It is structured to offer a cost-effective way to begin trading without committing to full private office space or large upfront costs. It pairs with the Freelancer and Pioneers Hub at AFZ.
Sole Professional / Freelancer Package
According to the official AFZ licence types page, this is “the most cost-effective licence in all the Emirates” for freelancers. It covers 40 freelance categories and provides access to flexible co-working space in the Freelancer and Pioneers Hub. Holders are eligible for one UAE residence visa and family sponsorship, making it an attractive option for individuals who are relocating to Ajman. Renewal rates are described as “economic” to support long-term business growth.
Offshore Licence
The Offshore Licence suits companies that want a UAE-incorporated entity for international operations but do not need physical premises or a presence within the UAE. AFZ has a dedicated offshore department; enquiries can be made by calling 06 701 1673. This structure is commonly used for holding companies, international trading, and asset holding.
National Industry Licence
This specialist industrial licence is available to companies that are majority-owned by nationals of GCC countries (51% or more) and carry out at least 40% of their manufacturing within the free zone. According to the Department of Digital Ajman’s guidance, National Industry Licence holders may be eligible for customs duty exemptions on exports to other Arab GCC states. This makes it particularly relevant for GCC-owned manufacturers looking to access the broader regional market.
AFZ currently lists more than 3,500 business activities across all licence categories. The complete activity list is available on the official AFZ website at afz.gov.ae/activity-list/.
What are the steps to set up a company in Ajman Free Zone?
According to the official AFZ getting-started page, the registration process has been reduced to three steps, all of which are managed digitally through the customer portal or the AFZ mobile app.
Step 1: Choose your business type, licence, and facility
The first step is selecting your legal structure (FZE, FZC, or branch), your licence type, and the facility that matches your operational requirements. AFZ sales consultants are available to guide you through this stage. If your planned activity is in a specialist category, such as industrial, services, or e-commerce, a feasibility study may be required as part of the application.
Before you begin, check the AFZ activity list at afz.gov.ae/activity-list/ to confirm that your intended activity is covered under your chosen licence type. Most conventional trading, services, and manufacturing activities are included, but specialist activities may need prior approval from a relevant UAE authority.
Step 2: Submit your application and documents
Once you have finalised your setup options, you complete the application form and upload all required documents through the AFZ customer portal at eportal.afz.gov.ae. AFZ’s sales team guides applicants through the documentation requirements specific to their legal structure. Most standard service requests are completed within one working day, according to the AFZ service manual.
Step 3: Obtain your licence and begin the visa process
On completion of all formalities and payment, AFZ issues your business licence, along with a bank introductory letter and a registration welcome kit. Once the licence is in hand, you can begin the visa application process for investor and employee visas through the same portal.
After your licence is issued, ongoing administration, including adding partners, renewing your licence, applying for additional visas, and requesting documents, is all handled through the same customer portal. AFZ also has a service request mechanism for raising queries and tracking their progress.
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What documents are required to register a company in Ajman Free Zone?
The documents required vary depending on your chosen legal structure. The following is based directly on the official AFZ types-of-business page at afz.gov.ae.
For a Freezone Establishment (FZE)
- Passport copy of the applicant, valid for at least six months
- Coloured photograph of the applicant
- No Objection Letter (NOC) from sponsor, if the applicant holds a current UAE residence visa
- Visa copy or UID number
For a Freezone Company (FZC)
- Passport copy for each partner, valid for at least six months
- Coloured photograph of each partner
- NOC from sponsor for each partner currently on a UAE residence visa
- Visa copy or UID for each partner
For a Branch of a Local Company
- Passport copy, coloured photograph, and visa copy or UID for the company manager
- Copy of the parent company’s valid UAE trade licence
- Copy of the parent company’s MOA
- Copy of the board resolution authorising the branch formation
For a Branch of a Foreign Company
- Passport copy, coloured photograph, and visa copy for the company manager
- Copy of the parent company’s trade licence
- Copy of the parent company’s MOA
- Copy of the board resolution authorising the establishment of the branch
- Where the parent is a corporate entity: a power of attorney authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and a certificate of incorporation
After receiving your initial licence, further documentation may be requested depending on your specific activity category. For industrial or specialist service activities, a feasibility study may also be needed. The AFZ customer portal guides applicants through any supplementary requirements during the application process.
What are the government fees and setup costs in Ajman Free Zone?
AFZ does not publish a static fee schedule, since costs vary based on your legal structure, licence type, the number of activities included, and the facility you choose. The zone provides an official dynamic cost calculator at afz.gov.ae/en/cost-calculator, which generates a personalised estimate instantly based on your specific inputs. The Ajman Government’s Department of Digital Ajman portal (ajman.ae) also offers a licence cost estimation service.
The table below outlines the main cost categories you should expect to budget for when setting up in AFZ.
| Cost Category | What It Covers | How to Get a Quote |
| Registration / Incorporation Fee | One-off fee to incorporate your company and register with AFZ | Official cost calculator: afz.gov.ae/en/cost-calculator |
| Annual Licence Fee | Renews each year; amount varies by licence type and number of activities | Official cost calculator or contact AFZ |
| Facility / Office Lease | Co-working desk, private office, warehouse (from 100 sq m), or land; varies by type and size | Contact AFZ: 800AFZA | [email protected] |
| Visa Processing Fees | Entry permit, medical examination, residency visa stamping (normal: 4 days; urgent: 2 days) | Contact AFZ: 800AFZA |
| Establishment Card | Required to enable visa issuance; part of the standard setup package | Included in the setup process; confirm with AFZ |
AFZ is consistently positioned as one of the UAE’s most cost-competitive free zones, with entry-level packages designed to be accessible to startups, SMEs, and first-time investors. The Sole Professional / Freelancer Package is described on the official licence types page as “the most cost-effective licence in all the Emirates,” which signals AFZ’s deliberate effort to attract solo entrepreneurs and small businesses.
For corporate tax: the UAE introduced a federal Corporate Tax of 9% on taxable profits above AED 375,000 (approximately USD 102,000), effective for financial years starting on or after 1 June 2023, as published by the UAE Federal Tax Authority. Free zone entities that qualify as a Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) may benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on their qualifying income. To confirm whether your AFZ company qualifies, seek guidance from the Federal Tax Authority at tax.gov.ae and consult a registered UAE tax adviser.
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What is the minimum share capital requirement in Ajman Free Zone?
AFZ does not stipulate a mandatory minimum share capital requirement in its publicly available guidance. This is consistent with a broader trend across UAE free zones, where capital requirements have been progressively reduced or removed to lower the barrier to entry for entrepreneurs and SMEs.
At the federal level, Federal Law No. 32 of 2021 (the UAE Companies Law) does not impose a blanket minimum capital requirement on free zone entities, though individual free zone authorities retain the right to set their own rules. AFZ does not publish a specific minimum figure on its official website.
If you are applying for an Industrial Licence, forming a corporate shareholder structure, or setting up a branch of a foreign company, specific capital provisions may apply in your case. You should confirm the current position for your chosen legal structure directly with AFZ by emailing [email protected] or calling 800AFZA before completing your application.
How many visas can I get with my AFZ licence?
AFZ issues both investor and employee visas to licence holders and their companies. According to the official AFZ FAQ page, the visa process follows three steps:
- Apply for a new entry permit via the AFZ customer portal
- Apply for visa status amendment
- Apply for new residency visa stamping
For standard service, new visa stamping takes up to four working days. If timing is critical, urgent service reduces this to two working days. The difference in fee between standard and urgent service is worth asking about during setup.
Medical examinations for visa purposes must be completed at Al Hamidiya Health Centre in Ajman. AFZ explicitly confirms on its official FAQ page that it does not accept medical reports from health centres in other emirates, so factor this requirement into your timeline if you are setting up your visa from outside Ajman.
After a UAE residence visa is cancelled, the holder is granted a 30-day grace period during which they may remain in the UAE lawfully. Investor visa holders whose business activities take them outside the UAE can remain on a valid UAE residence visa for up to one year from their last exit date, provided their visa remains current.
On visa quotas, Sole Professional / Freelancer Package holders are entitled to one UAE residence visa plus the right to sponsor family members. For all other licence types, the number of visas available is linked to the size and type of facility leased. The specific ratio is confirmed during the application process; contact AFZ at 800AFZA for the current formula applicable to your chosen package.
To add a new employee to your company’s visa sponsorship, raise a service request through the customer portal under “Company Services.” To add a new partner or shareholder, navigate to “Company Services”, then “Shareholder Amendments”, and select “Transfer Shares to New Shareholders.” Security approval, a passport copy, a visa or residence copy, and a photograph are required for the partner addition process.
Passports submitted for visa stamping are handled via Zajel Courier Service. Once the service request status shows as “Closed,” passports can be collected from Zajel directly. There is no need to return to AFZ offices for collection.
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What facilities and office options are available in Ajman Free Zone?
According to the official AFZ products page at afz.gov.ae, the zone offers ten types of workspace and facility, covering everything from flexible hot desks to long-term industrial land leases. This breadth of options makes AFZ suitable for businesses at very different stages and operating in very different sectors.
Executive Offices
Spacious, strategically located offices with full customisation support. Suited to established businesses that need a professional corporate address and the flexibility to tailor their workspace to specific requirements.
Standard Offices
Furnished office spaces designed for startups and growing companies. AFZ offers a range of configurable sizes to suit different team sizes and operational needs.
Business Centre
A shared co-working environment with meeting rooms and a networking lounge. The Business Centre is designed to give startups and SMEs a professional presence without the overhead of a dedicated private office. As companies grow, they can transition to larger space within the zone.
Freelancer and Pioneers Hub
Flexible co-working space for freelancers, recent graduates, and first-time entrepreneurs. No long-term lease commitments are required, making this the most accessible entry point for individuals starting out in the UAE.
AI Robotics Hub
A specialist hub for technology-driven businesses and startups working in AI and robotics. The facility includes co-working space and executive offices, access to AFZ’s funding community, and a programme of events, webinars, and training designed to support tech entrepreneurs at all stages.
E-Commerce Hub
Co-working space specifically designed for online businesses, with networking opportunities and community support for e-commerce entrepreneurs.
Eco-Friendly Zone (Gold LEED Certified)
Sustainable warehouse spaces starting from 100 sq m, strategically located close to Ajman Port and Customs for efficient inward and outward movement of goods. The eco-friendly warehouses hold Gold LEED certification, the international green building standard. Spaces are fully customisable to meet diverse operational needs.
Standard Warehouses
Pre-built warehouses starting from 100 sq m, located in a designated area with direct port access. Suited to trading, distribution, and light manufacturing businesses.
Onsite Accommodation
On-site staff accommodation with 24-hour security, centralised air conditioning, laundry and lavatory services, prayer rooms, restaurant and outdoor seating, and car and bike parking. This is particularly relevant for industrial and manufacturing businesses that need workers on-site and close to operations.
Land Leases
Long-term land leases of 20 years or more for investors who want to build their own bespoke facility to exact specifications. This option gives maximum operational flexibility for larger manufacturers and logistics businesses.
AFZ’s facilities are spread across several business communities within Ajman, including Ajman Boulevard, Al Zorah, Amber Gem Tower, Business Cube, China Mall, and the Car Market. Each community has a character suited to different industry types, and AFZ consultants can advise on which location best fits your operations.
What are the key benefits of setting up in Ajman Free Zone?
100% foreign ownership is perhaps the most widely cited reason for choosing any UAE free zone, and AFZ is no exception. There is no requirement to partner with a UAE national or engage a local sponsor; investors retain full ownership of their company from day one.
The zone’s proximity to Ajman Port, combined with easy road access to Sharjah and Dubai airports, is a tangible operational benefit for businesses handling physical goods. Import and export logistics are simpler when your warehouse is a short drive from a working commercial port.
AFZ’s fully digital infrastructure means that the vast majority of administrative tasks, including registration, renewals, visa applications, document requests, and service queries, can be handled entirely online through the customer portal or the mobile app. This reduces the time cost of running a business in the UAE significantly.
The breadth of available activities is another practical advantage. With over 3,500 business activities on the approved list, most conventional trading, services, and manufacturing operations are covered. The full list is published openly at afz.gov.ae/activity-list/, so you can check your specific activity before committing to a licence.
AFZ+ adds another layer of value by giving registered companies access to banking introductions, medical support, insurance services, and market development assistance. The banking introduction service alone can significantly reduce the time it takes to open a business bank account, which is often one of the more time-consuming steps in setting up a new company in the UAE.
From a tax perspective, UAE free zone companies with qualifying income may benefit from the 0% corporate tax rate under the Qualifying Free Zone Person regime, as published by the UAE Federal Tax Authority. Non-qualifying income is subject to the 9% standard rate on taxable profits above AED 375,000. The free zone framework also means no customs duty on goods within the zone and simple import/export processes.
The zone’s regulatory maturity is a further advantage. With over 36 years of operation and a track record of serving companies from 165+ countries, AFZ has well-established processes and a clear regulatory framework. Its recognition at the Global Free Zone of the Year Awards 2021 (7th place globally, FDI Intelligence) is an independent signal of its quality and standing.
Finally, AFZ’s 24-hour customer support and rapid service turnaround, with the service manual targeting one working day for most standard procedures, means that administrative tasks do not create operational bottlenecks for growing businesses.
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How does Ajman Free Zone compare to other UAE free zones?
AFZ occupies a clear position in the UAE free zone landscape: it is one of the Northern Emirates’ most established zones with a cost structure designed to attract SMEs, startups, and trading businesses. Here is how it compares to other commonly considered options.
Compared to DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre), AFZ typically offers a lower overall setup cost. DMCC is the world’s largest free zone by number of registered companies and the dominant choice for commodities trading, with a deep international business network and a prestigious Dubai address. The premium makes sense for businesses where the DMCC brand and ecosystem are core to their model; for others, the cost difference favours AFZ.
Compared to JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority), which is Dubai’s premier industrial and logistics free zone, AFZ has lower facility costs. JAFZA, however, offers connectivity to Jebel Ali Port, the largest port in the Middle East and one of the world’s busiest, which is a significant advantage for large-volume importers and exporters. If port throughput volume is critical to your business, JAFZA merits serious consideration.
Compared to RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone), AFZ and RAKEZ target a very similar market: SMEs and investor-level businesses in the Northern Emirates. Both are cost-competitive and offer a range of facility types. AFZ’s differentiating factors are its proximity to Ajman Port and its longer operational track record; RAKEZ has a larger geographic footprint and a strong manufacturing cluster.
Compared to IFZA (International Free Zone Authority, Dubai), both zones target the budget-conscious end of the market. AFZ adds the advantage of a physical port nearby, which is meaningful for trading businesses. IFZA benefits from a Dubai address, which matters to some sectors and client profiles.
For businesses that prioritise cost-efficiency, port access, and a proven and fully digital setup process over a prestigious Dubai address, AFZ is a compelling choice among the Northern Emirates options. For businesses where the Dubai brand or a specific sector ecosystem (DMCC for commodities, JAFZA for logistics) is important, those zones may be more appropriate despite the higher cost.
Tips for Setting Up in Ajman Free Zone
- Use the cost calculator before you commit. The official AFZ cost calculator at afz.gov.ae/en/cost-calculator is free and generates a personalised estimate based on your exact licence type and facility choice. Run it before signing anything to avoid budget surprises.
- Check the activity list first. With more than 3,500 activities available, most businesses will find what they need, but confirm your specific activity is included before choosing your licence type. The list is at afz.gov.ae/activity-list/.
- Medical must be at Al Hamidiya Health Centre in Ajman. This is non-negotiable. AFZ does not accept medical reports from health centres in other emirates, so factor this step into your setup timeline if you are based outside Ajman.
- Choose urgent visa stamping if timing matters. Urgent service cuts stamping time from four to two working days. Ask about the fee difference during setup and decide based on your launch timeline.
- Explore AFZ+ services early in the process. The AFZ+ programme covers banking introductions, insurance, and medical support. Getting into this programme early can save significant time when opening your business bank account and setting up employee benefits, both common pain points for new UAE businesses.
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Frequently asked questions about Ajman Free Zone company setup
A Freezone Establishment (FZE) has a single shareholder and operates as a fully independent corporate entity. A Freezone Company (FZC) has two or more shareholders. Both structures are registered under AFZ’s jurisdiction and enjoy 100% foreign ownership. The FZE is the most common choice for solo investors; the FZC suits business partnerships and joint ventures.
Yes. AFZ issues an Offshore Licence for companies that want a UAE-incorporated entity for international operations without requiring physical premises in the UAE. Offshore companies are typically used for holding structures, international trading, and asset holding. For enquiries, contact the AFZ offshore department directly on 06 701 1673.
Yes. According to the official AFZ FAQ, you can request a change to your licence type through the AFZ customer portal under “Company Services.” Note that the activity you move to must be compatible with your trade name. Administrative fees may apply, and AFZ will advise on the specific amount during the service request process.
The AFZ setup process is designed to be quick. The standard service target for most administrative procedures is one working day, according to the AFZ service manual. For visa stamping, normal service takes up to four working days; urgent service takes two working days. The overall time from application submission to receiving your licence depends on document completeness and any special approvals required for your activity.
No. The entire registration process is managed digitally through the AFZ customer portal at eportal.afz.gov.ae, or via the AFZ mobile app (iOS and Android). Sales consultants are available by phone at +971 56 502 4666, by WhatsApp at the same number, by email at [email protected], or by calling the free number 800AFZA.
The AFZ cost calculator is a free online tool on the official AFZ website that generates a personalised cost estimate based on your chosen licence type, legal structure, and facility. It is available at afz.gov.ae/en/cost-calculator. Simply select your inputs and the tool provides an indicative breakdown. For a confirmed quote, follow up directly with an AFZ consultant.
This depends on your legal structure and business model. Branches of foreign companies registered in AFZ may sell into the UAE mainland only through a UAE-registered agent or distributor. For other licence types, goods moved from the free zone to the mainland are typically subject to UAE customs duties. Specific guidance should be sought from AFZ and the Ajman Department of Port and Customs before committing to a business model that relies on mainland distribution.
Yes. AFZ investor visa holders can obtain a salary certificate through the AFZ portal and then proceed to the relevant UAE Immigration authority to apply for family residence visas. Sole Professional / Freelancer Package holders are explicitly eligible for family sponsorship, as confirmed on the official AFZ licence types page at afz.gov.ae.
