Free zones are considered by many to be the jewel in the UAE’s crown. Popular with entrepreneurs and businesses around the world, the UAE’s free zones boast zero currency restrictions, customs tax exemption and offer the ability to repatriate 100% of your capital and profits. All this on top of the UAE’s famed 0% corporate tax rates on both personal and corporate income.
And these are just the headline benefits offered by all. Each individual free zone also offers its own set of advantages to those that set up within them.
Take Ajman Media City Free Zone (AMCFZ) for example. Located in the emirate of Ajman and tailored towards those in the media industry, AMCFZ offers a range of affordable packages to both businesses and individuals. AMCFZ also offers a fast, affordable and straightforward company incorporation process that, with the right support, can be completed in just a few simple steps.
Why do business in Ajman?
There are a number of reasons why international entrepreneurs should consider setting up in Ajman. As mentioned previously, the emirate benefits from a strategic location with great access to its surrounding emirates and beyond – the Ajman and Khorfakkan ports are in close proximity as are both the Dubai International and Sharjah International airports.
Ajman also offers low startup costs, a welcoming business regulation, and plenty of affordable labour.
Step by step guide to Ajman Media City company setup
When you start your AMCFZ business with the help of a company setup expert, the whole process takes just four simple steps.
Step one: Activities
The first thing to do before applying to establish your business at AMCFZ is to outline your business activities.
While the free zone is tailored to the media industry, AMCFZ welcomes a range of activities under the following license types:
Service license: Allows production, re-production, transformation and distribution of services.
Trading lcense: Authorises the import, export, distribution and storing of items specified on the license.
E-commerce: Allows the license holder to conduct all manner of online trading and services.
Ajman Media City Free Zone activities list
Ajman Media City Free Zone activities include:
New media – photography, web design, digital media etc.
Music – recording, production, management etc.
Film – production, post-production, scoring, promotion etc.
Consultancy – from legal and HR to investment and business consultancy.
Publishing – books, magazines, newspapers, online and more.
Event management – conference organisation, theatre management, sports management etc.
Step two: Company name
At this stage, you should also decide on a company name.
When choosing a name for your business, you must keep in mind that it cannot include any offensive or blasphemous language, nor any religious references. If you wish to include your name in your company name, you must use it in full rather than just your surname or initials. Finally, you must check that your chosen name is available to be registered.
Step three: License
Now you can make your license application.
As part of the application process, you may be asked to provide:
- Completed application form
- A copy of your passport
- A colour photograph
- A business plan
You can make your application directly to the AMCFZ managing authority if you wish but it often pays to work with a company setup expert when doing so. We can make sure your application is complete and free from errors at the time of submission to ensure a fast and smooth process.
Step four: Visas
Finally, you’ll need to apply for your visas. Once again, this is best undertaken with the help of a company formation expert. The AMCFZ visa process is as follows:
- Apply for the Establishment card.
- Upon receiving the Establishment card, apply for the eChannel registration.
- Following the eChannel registration, apply for the Entry Permit.
- On issuance of the Entry Permit, conclude the Medical Test & Emirates Identity application.
Stamping of the Residency Permit in passport.
AMCFZ visa requirements:
- Online printed application with barcode/ reference number signed and stamped by signatory authority
- Immigration application form typed by Ajman Media City Free Zone typing section located in Visa & Residence Dept.
- Trade License copy
- Establishment card copy
- Two clear passport copies, with a minimum validity of 6 months
- Three recent passport size photographs (white background)
- Educational Certificate if required, must be attested by the UAE Consulate of their respective country of Origin followed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in U.A.E.
What is the cost of a Ajman Media City Free Zone license?
The total Ajman Media City Free Zone license cost will depend on the license package that you opt for. AMCFZ offers seven packages from Bronze up to Platinum, starting at just AED 8,500.
However, this is not the only cost you need to consider. You’ll also need to account for the cost of premises and visas, the cost of which will depend on the size of your organisation, among other factors.
What can be said, however, is that setting up in a free zone is one of the most cost-effective ways to do business in the UAE. Ajman is also well-known for its low cost of doing business, so setting up here is an option on most budgets.
Trade License Zone – the company setup experts
The Ajman Media City company setup process has been designed with simplicity in mind. That said, it does take some in-depth knowledge of the UAE and its many customs and regulations.
That’s why it’s always advisable to acquire the services of a business setup company who can not only advise on the process but also seek out the most suitable license and setup type for your business, based on your needs and your budget.
When you use business setup services, you also gain peace of mind that your license and visa applications are free from errors and omissions – both of which can lead to delays and rejection.
When you work with a company formation specialist, all you need to provide is some basic documentation and a little information about the nature of your business. Then, sit back and let the experts take care of the rest – managing your license and visa applications, communicating with all relevant departments and authorities, and reporting back when you’re ready to start trading. It really is that simple.