Below is a structured overview of how international businesses can establish operations in the UAE through ANCFZ while maintaining speed, flexibility, and long-term sustainability.
Step 1: Establish Your Presence in a Fully Digital Free Zone
Located in Ajman, UAE, ANCFZ places companies within close reach of key commercial markets across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Its position within major trade corridors enhances regional and international connectivity.
As the UAE’s first digital free zone, ANCFZ has transformed traditional company formation procedures. Licenses can be issued in approximately 15 minutes, and residency visas are generally processed within 48 hours. This accelerated process reflects ANCFZ’s digital-first system, designed to reduce administrative delays.
The entire setup procedure is conducted online, enabling fully remote company registration in the UAE from anywhere in the world. This structure allows international entrepreneurs to launch operations without physical presence during incorporation.
Step 2: Choose the Appropriate License for Your Business Activities
Selecting the correct license is a critical step when entering a new jurisdiction. ANCFZ supports more than 3,500 approved activities across multiple industries, offering flexibility to align with various commercial models.
Trading/General Trading License
This license allows businesses to import, export, and distribute goods within the UAE and internationally. It is particularly beneficial for companies leveraging the UAE’s position as a global trading hub.
Consultancy or Professional Services License
Designed for professionals in management, IT, HR, finance, and advisory services, this license enables firms to deliver specialized expertise while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Blockchain Tokenization License
Structured for enterprises seeking to tokenize assets such as real estate, commodities, or shares through blockchain technology.
E-commerce license in the UAE
Ideal for online retailers, digital marketplaces, and platform-based businesses targeting the expanding Gulf digital economy. ANCFZ permits up to 10 activities under a single license, ensuring operational adaptability as businesses scale.
Step 3: Take Advantage of Cost-Efficient Setup Packages
International expansion often requires careful cost management. ANCFZ is widely recognized as the cheapest Free Zone in UAE for company formation, offering packages structured to accommodate startups, SMEs, and established enterprises.
Businesses seeking a free zone company setup in Ajman, near Dubai, will find ANCFZ’s pricing competitive while maintaining professional service standards and regulatory support.
Step 4: Arrange Visas for Owners and Team Members
Relocating business owners or appointing employees in the UAE may be part of the growth strategy. ANCFZ simplifies visa processing for shareholders, partners, and staff, allowing them to legally reside and work in the country. Visas are typically issued within 48 hours, ensuring minimal operational disruption.
Step 5: Benefit from Infrastructure, Tax Advantages, and Ongoing Support
ANCFZ delivers a comprehensive ecosystem designed to support business continuity beyond initial registration. Companies benefit from:
- Modern office facilities and coworking environments
- A digital portal for license renewals and compliance management
- 24/7 customer support for administrative and legal requirements
At ANCFZ, investors maintain 100% foreign ownership and operate within one of the world’s most tax-efficient environments, including zero personal income tax, no property tax, and no capital gains tax.
A Strategic Hub for International Entrepreneurs
ANCFZ UAE supports professionals and investors from the US, UK, and numerous global markets including Saudi Arabia (KSA), Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, India, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. Positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, it offers strong connectivity by air, sea, and road. Combined with advanced infrastructure and a progressive regulatory framework, ANCFZ UAE provides businesses with access to markets across the GCC, CIS, and beyond.
Why ANCFZ is Well-Suited for International Expansion
Choosing ANCFZ reflects a commitment to operational efficiency, regulatory clarity, and long-term scalability. Its digital-first processes, wide range of licensing options, flexible activity combinations, 100% ownership structure, favorable tax environment, and competitively structured packages create a stable platform for global enterprises entering the UAE.
For organizations ready to expand into the UAE, ANCFZ enables swift establishment, confident operations, and sustainable growth within one of the world’s most dynamic business environments.