WhatsApp quoteGoldenKey arranges the licence, tenancy registration and visas for companies locating in Emirates City, and we can recommend business centres and landlords in the area. Setting up a business in Emirates City means an Ajman mainland licence from the Ajman Department of Economic Development (Ajman DED), an office or shop registered in the district and the approvals your activity needs. Emirates City is Ajman's tower district on the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, and it is one of the locations business owners ask GoldenKey about most when planning an Ajman mainland company.
Who sets up in Emirates City
Emirates City attracts retailers, restaurants, service businesses and traders serving the northern emirates. Rents, footfall and parking differ from street to street, so we advise viewing two or three units before signing.
Licensing steps for Emirates City
The licence is granted by the Ajman Department of Economic Development (Ajman DED). GoldenKey reserves the name, obtains initial approval, registers your tenancy contract for the Emirates City unit and submits the file; municipality and civil defence approvals follow for shops and food outlets.
Costs
Licence packages for Ajman mainland start from AED 9,000, plus rent for your Emirates City premises and any external approvals. We confirm every figure in writing.
Licensing steps
Step 1Activity and legal form
As we tell every client, we select the correct activity codes from the Ajman Department of Economic Development (Ajman DED) list and the legal form, generally a LLC or a sole establishment.
Step 2Trade name and initial approval
GoldenKey files the name reservation and initial-approval request with the Ajman Department of Economic Development (Ajman DED) and obtains sector approvals where needed. We keep a written record of this step so your file for setting up a business in Emirates City is audit-ready.
Step 3Office, MOA and submission
Day to day, after the MOA is signed and the office tenancy registered, GoldenKey lodges the full application with the Ajman Department of Economic Development (Ajman DED).
Step 4Licence, Chamber and immigration
As we tell every client, with the licence in hand we register with the Chamber of Commerce and open the immigration and MOHRE files for your visas. Expect clear updates from your GoldenKey consultant while this step runs for setting up a business in Emirates City.
Ajman mainland pricing
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
| Additional visa | AED 2,500 |
|---|---|
| Annual renewal | AED 7,000 |
Prices are indicative, in AED, exclusive of 5% VAT where applicable, and confirmed in writing before payment. Last updated 2026-10-06.
Why GoldenKey
GoldenKey is a licensed business setup consultancy, not a reseller, which means your Emirates City application is prepared, checked and submitted by our own team. GoldenKey is based in Ajman Free Zone and has helped entrepreneurs from more than 60 countries with setting up a business in Emirates City, so the paperwork, approvals and timing hold no surprises for us.
On the ground, message GoldenKey now and we will prepare a personalised quotation for setting up a business in Emirates City, valid for 30 days and confirmed in writing.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need an Emirati partner for a Emirates City mainland company?
For most commercial and industrial activities, no. Since 2021 foreign nationals can own 100% of a Emirates City mainland LLC. A short list of strategic activities still requires Emirati participation, and GoldenKey checks your activity before you commit.
Can a Emirates City mainland company trade in other emirates?
Yes — A mainland licence is valid across the UAE, and you can open branches in other emirates by registering with their economic departments.
What is the difference between Emirates City mainland and a free zone?
In our experience, mainland companies can trade directly with any UAE customer and take government contracts; free zone companies have lower costs and customs benefits but trade with the mainland through distributors. GoldenKey compares both for your specific activity.
Can I convert my free zone company to a Emirates City mainland company?
You cannot convert directly, but you can open a mainland branch of your free zone company or set up a new mainland LLC and transfer the business. GoldenKey advises on the most tax-efficient route.
