Starting a business in Ajman has become one of the most cost-effective ways to enter the UAE mainland market. In 2026, the Ajman Mainland License continues to attract startups, SMEs, and foreign investors because of its lower setup cost, flexible visa options, and full market access.
What Is an Ajman Mainland License?
An Ajman Mainland License is a business license issued by the Ajman Department of Economic Development (Ajman DED). It allows a company to operate onshore within Ajman and across the UAE mainland. A mainland company can trade directly with UAE clients, bid for government contracts, and open branches anywhere in the country. This makes it different from a free zone license, which limits where you can operate.
For example, a trading company based in Ajman Mainland can sell goods to Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi without using a local distributor. This flexibility is one of the main reasons businesses choose the mainland model.
Why Choose Ajman Mainland in 2026?
Ajman remains one of the most affordable emirates for mainland business setup in the UAE. In 2026, several advantages continue to stand out.
- First, 100 percent foreign ownership is allowed for most commercial and professional activities. You no longer need a local sponsor for standard business activities.
- Second, there is no minimum capital requirement for most Ajman Mainland licenses. This reduces financial pressure on startups and small businesses.
- Third, Ajman offers full access to the UAE mainland market, including eligibility for government and semi-government contracts.
Cost is another major factor. Ajman Mainland setup costs are typically 25 to 40 percent lower than Dubai, making it one of the cheapest emirates for mainland company formation. This setup works well for SMEs, freelancers, e-commerce sellers, and expats who want a legal UAE presence without high overheads.
Ajman Mainland vs Free Zone – Cost and Control Comparison
1. Cost Comparison
| Factor | Ajman Mainland | Ajman Free Zone |
| License cost | AED 12,000 to 32,000 | AED 6,000 to 15,000 |
| Office requirement | Flexi or physical | Flexi desk only |
| Visa cost | Separate per visa | Often bundled |
| Market access | Full UAE mainland | Limited |
Mainland licenses cost more upfront, but they provide wider business freedom.
2. Business Control and Expansion
Ajman Mainland companies can work with any UAE client, open branches across emirates, and grow without restrictions. Free zone companies usually need agents or distributors to access the mainland. If long-term expansion matters, the mainland option offers better control.
Types of Ajman Mainland Licenses
The type of activity you choose directly affects your license cost.
1. Commercial License
Used for trading, import export, retail, and general commerce. This is one of the most common Ajman Mainland licenses.
2. Professional License
Suitable for consultants, IT services, marketing agencies, and freelancers. These licenses usually have lower setup costs.
3. Industrial License
Issued for manufacturing, packaging, and assembly activities. It requires additional approvals and industrial space.
4. E-commerce License
Designed for online selling, digital platforms, and marketplace businesses. Costs depend on product type and approvals.
Ajman Mainland License Cost 2026
The Ajman Mainland License cost in 2026 depends on your activity, visa needs, and office setup.
- Base cost range: AED 12,000 to AED 32,000
- Typical SME range: AED 17,500 to AED 25,000
Lower costs usually apply to professional or consulting activities with minimal visa needs. Higher costs apply to trading or industrial activities with multiple visas and office space.
Note: The costs mentioned above are estimated for guidance only. Actual fees may change based on government updates, activity type, visa quota, and office requirements. For accurate pricing, it is always best to consult a professional business setup expert such as Ripple Business Setup before applying.
Ajman Mainland License Cost Breakdown
1. Ajman DED License Fees
These include initial approval and license issuance fees charged by the Ajman Department of Economic Development.
2. Trade Name Reservation Cost
Trade name fees depend on name availability and wording. Premium or foreign language names cost more and must follow Ajman trade name rules.
3. Chamber of Commerce Ajman Fee
Registration with the Ajman Chamber of Commerce is mandatory for all mainland companies.
4. Office Space and Ejari Costs
- Flexi desk options reduce costs
- Physical offices increase visa quota
- Ejari registration is required for all setups
Office rent in Ajman is significantly lower than Dubai, making it budget friendly.
5. Visa and Immigration Costs
Each visa includes:
- Entry permit
- Medical fitness test
- Emirates ID
- Visa stamping
6. PRO Services and Government Approvals
PRO services cover documentation, approvals, and coordination with government entities. Some activities require external approvals.
Ajman Mainland License Cost Without Office – Is It Possible?
Yes, certain professional and service activities allow a flexi desk instead of a physical office. This option reduces costs and suits startups and solo founders. Trading and industrial activities usually require a physical office or warehouse. The cost difference can range from AED 5,000 to 15,000 annually.
Step-by-Step Process to Get an Ajman Mainland License
- Choose the business activity
- Select the legal structure
- Reserve the trade name
- Obtain initial approval from Ajman DED
- Arrange office or flexi desk
- Submit documents
- Pay license fees
- Apply for visas
The full process usually takes 7 to 14 working days if the documents are complete.
Ajman Mainland License Requirements and Documents
Required documents include:
- Passport copies of owners
- UAE visa or entry stamp
- Memorandum of Association
- Ejari or flexi desk agreement
- External approvals if applicable
Foreign investors do not need a local sponsor for most activities.
Ajman Mainland License Renewal Cost and Process
Ajman Mainland licenses must be renewed every year.
- Renewal cost: Usually similar to the initial license fee
- Documents needed: Ejari, passport copies, existing license
- Late renewal penalties: Daily fines may apply
Timely renewal avoids visa and banking issues.
Ajman Corporate Tax and Compliance in 2026
Ajman Mainland companies benefit from 0 percent corporate tax on qualifying income under UAE tax laws. A 9 percent corporate tax applies only if taxable profits exceed the federal threshold. VAT registration is mandatory if turnover crosses the required limit. There is no minimum capital requirement for most licenses.
Visa Options Under Ajman Mainland License
1. Investor Visa
Issued to company owners, usually valid for two years.
2. Employee Visa
Quota depends on office size and activity.
3. Family Visa
Available once the investor or employee meets salary requirements.
4. Golden Visa Ajman Mainland
Eligible investors may apply based on business value and investment criteria.
Free Zone to Mainland Transfer in Ajman
Businesses often move from free zone to mainland when they want direct UAE market access. The process includes license cancellation, new mainland registration, and updated visas. Costs vary based on activity and visa transfer needs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Up in Ajman
- Choosing the wrong activity
- Underestimating visa costs
- Ignoring renewal timelines
- Renting larger office space than needed
Proper planning helps avoid delays and extra expenses.
How Ripple Business Setup Simplifies Ajman Mainland Setup
Ripple Business Setup supports entrepreneurs with complete Ajman Mainland business setup services. This includes cost planning, approvals, visa processing, and compliance support. Our local expertise helps avoid delays and unexpected expenses.
You can contact Ripple Business Setup at +971 50 593 8101, email info@ripplellc.ae, or WhatsApp +971 4 250 0833 for accurate guidance based on your business activity and visa needs.
FAQs
1. How much does it cost to get a mainland license in Ajman?
Costs usually range from AED 12,000 to AED 32,000, depending on activity and visas.
2. How to check Ajman trade license online?
You can verify it through the Ajman DED online portal using the license number.
3. What are the different types of licenses in UAE?
Commercial, professional, industrial, and e-commerce licenses are the most common.
4. How much is the visa for Ajman free zone?
Visa costs vary by free zone and package. Mainland visas are charged separately.
5. How long does Ajman Mainland license approval take?
Most licenses are issued within 1 to 2 weeks.
