How to Obtain an Ajman Trade Licence: Step-by-Step Application Process, Costs, Requirements

Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking to start a cosy restaurant in Ajman? Or perhaps you're a business owner aiming to expand into new emirates?

To engage in any commercial activity in Ajman, you need an economic licence issued by the Ajman Department of Economic Development (DED).

The emirate saw a 5 per cent increase in new licences during the first half of 2024, amounting to 3,000 new licences.

Top Sectors for New Licences

* Ready-made women's clothing

* Restaurants

* Building maintenance

You can apply for a trade licence through the Ajman DED website, the smart application, or by visiting a service centre. Here’s a step-by-step guide, including the required documents and costs.

Required Documents

* Trade name reservation certificate

* Licence application

* Passport and ID card copy (for owner or partners)

* Security clearances for residents

* Valid passport and ID card of all partners (for existing businesses)

Application Steps

* Visit the Ajman DED website and click on 'Issue Trade Licence' in the service directory.

* Click on 'Start Service' under 'How to Apply'.

* Log in with your website account or UAE Pass. Alternatively, use the smart app or visit a customer happiness centre.

* Fill in the required information and pay the fees.

* Create a memorandum of association for companies.

* The licence will be issued.

* Authenticate the lease contract from the Municipality and Planning Department.

Note: Foreign nationals must receive approval from the Federal Authority of Identity and Citizenship (ICP). High-risk economic activities may require additional government approvals.

Fees

Economic licence issuance: Dh600

Administrative application services: Dh50

Banner advertising commercial name permit: Dh350

Registration in the commercial register: Dh200

Registration in unified economic activities register: Dh200

Commercial registration certificate: Dh200

Advertising banner specification form: Dh100

Documenting a fixed-price contract: Fees based on contract capital; Dh50 per page if translated into English

CSR UAE Fund contribution: Dh1,500
Ministry of Economy publication for LLC: Dh3,000

Trade Name Reservation Certificate

A trade name reservation certificate is required to issue a trade licence. Follow these steps to obtain it:

* Visit the Ajman DED website and click on 'Trade Name Reservation' in the service directory.

* Click on 'Start Service' under 'How to Apply'. Alternatively, use the smart app or visit a customer happiness centre.

* Review the terms and conditions for a trade name and pay the fees.

* Enter the required information, pay the fees, and receive the trade name reservation certificate if approved.

Fees

* Initial approval: Dh100

* Trade name reservation: Dh200

* Administrative services application fee: Dh50

Required Documents

* Copy of ID card and passport for stakeholders

* Copy of the original licence for business branches

* Formal letter for government entities

Service Duration

Both the issuance of a trade licence and the reservation of a trading name take approximately 24 minutes each.

Ajman's Business Growth

Ajman recorded a significant increase in business activity in the first half of 2024, with 37,755 active licences, reflecting a 15 per cent growth compared to the same period in 2023.

Over 15,000 licences were renewed, showing a 9 per cent growth rate.
Abdullah Ahmed Al Hamrani, Director-General of Ajman DED, stated, "These figures reflect the remarkable improvement in the business environment in Ajman, enhancing its position as a preferred investment destination for both local and international investors."