Ajman may be the smallest of the UAE’s seven emirates, but it has emerged as a significant economic hub by leveraging its strategic location, investor-friendly policies, and growing business infrastructure. As a result, the emirate is steadily positioning itself as an appealing destination for entrepreneurs and investors.
Ajman’s location along the Arabian Gulf provides businesses with direct access to key regional and international markets. Furthermore, its proximity to Dubai and Sharjah ensures companies operating in Ajman benefit from these larger emirates’ infrastructure and logistics capabilities while maintaining cost-effective business operations. The emirate’s port and growing industrial sector further enhance its appeal as a commercial centre.
So, let’s look at the causes of Ajman’s growth and prospects, its key industries, and the important role free zones play here.
Ajman’s vision for the future
Ajman Vision 2030 is a strategic framework designed to guide the emirate’s development over the next decade. It emphasises cooperation with the private sector, NGOs, and the wider community while increasing transparency and accountability in decision-making.
There is also an emphasis on analysing emerging trends, adopting modern technologies, and driving innovation while remaining agile to ensure society remains responsive and adaptable and participates in shaping its future.
The plan also prioritises community well-being, promoting inclusivity and sustainability across all sectors. Ajman aims to create a people-centred future by enhancing health and social services, encouraging public engagement in policymaking, and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
The emirate is committed to integrating youth and elders into society while balancing economic growth and environmental responsibility. By shifting towards a results-based governance model, Ajman seeks to drive long-term, high-value economic activities that support social progress and ecological sustainability.
Ajman: GDP and budget for 2025
In 2023, Ajman’s GDP at current prices surpassed USD 9.8bn, up from USD 9.2bn in 2022. Manufacturing industries were the top contributors at 18.9%, with wholesale, retail trade and vehicle repair at 18.31%, and construction at 17.36%. Ajman Port and Ajman Free Zone also played a vital role in driving the emirate’s economic expansion.
Ajman’s 2025 budget outlines a progressive financial plan totalling USD 964m, focusing on sectors including community welfare, public security, infrastructure enhancements, and economic growth, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation, which aligns with policies across the wider UAE.
The budget prioritises future preparedness, institutional development, and innovative problem-solving. It dedicates resources to advancing digital transformation, attracting investments, promoting environmental sustainability, as well as upskilling the workforce.
By investing in digital infrastructure, expanding green spaces, and encouraging cultural initiatives, the 2025 budget underscores Ajman’s commitment to creating a modern, investor-friendly environment. For businesses and entrepreneurs, this approach presents valuable opportunities within the emirate’s economic landscape.
Ajman free zones: Hubs for business growth
At the forefront of Ajman’s economic strategy is the Ajman Free Zones Authority, led by His Excellency Ismail Al Naqi. Under this umbrella, three key free zones – Ajman, Ajman Media City, and Al Zorah – provide a wide range of opportunities for businesses across multiple industries.
- Ajman Free Zone (AFZ): A well-established business hub offering cost-effective licensing solutions for startups, SMEs, and large enterprises. AFZ’s location near Ajman Port and Dubai and Sharjah airports ensures seamless import and export operations, making it an ideal choice for trade and logistics companies. Some key business areas supported by the free zone include food and beverage, automotive, health and beauty, as well as many others.
- Ajman Media City Free Zone: A dedicated zone catering to the growing media, digital, and creative industries. It provides entrepreneurs with flexible licensing and cost-effective business setup solutions tailored to content creators, media production houses, and digital marketing firms.
- Al Zorah Free Zone: Focused on high-end tourism, leisure, and property development, Al Zorah is a master-planned community integrating luxury resorts, residential properties, and commercial spaces. This zone reflects Ajman’s commitment to expanding its real estate and hospitality sectors.
Beyond free zones – retail and real estate
Ajman’s ambitious economic roadmap extends beyond its free zones. Several large-scale initiatives are underway to create new investment opportunities across diverse industries:
- Ajman China Mall: A thriving commercial centre offering a gateway to Chinese manufacturers and traders, catering to wholesale and retail buyers across the region. The mall’s success is driving expansion plans, further solidifying Ajman’s role in regional trade.
- Car Souq: One of the UAE’s largest automobile markets, providing an organised platform for vehicle sales, auctions, and exports. With demand for used and new vehicles growing in the region, the Car Souq is set to play an increasingly significant role in the Gulf’s automotive trade.
- Free zone parks: A new initiative aimed at developing sector-specific industrial and business clusters to support manufacturing, logistics, and technology-driven enterprises.
- Retail and property development: Ajman is investing in commercial and residential real estate to cater to its growing business community and workforce. Projects such as Al Zorah’s mixed-use developments are designed to attract international investors and upscale businesses.
Ajman: An attractive investment location
The emirate is actively promoting FDI through incentives, streamlined business setup processes, and strategic partnerships. The emphasis on infrastructure, sustainability, and economic diversification makes Ajman a compelling choice for investors looking to establish a presence in the UAE.
The Ajman Department of Economic Development (Ajman DED) recently introduced the ‘Investor Statement’ initiative to enhance investor awareness and strengthen the emirate’s investment landscape.
This initiative is a move towards creating an even more business-friendly environment in line with Ajman Vision 2030, which aims to build a sustainable economy. By providing investors with regular electronic reports detailing their licences and permits (including legal and administrative status, notifications, and fines), the project ensures transparency, facilitates informed decision-making, and streamlines follow-ups.
The ‘Investor Statement’ represents a significant step in enhancing Ajman’s investment climate and economic competitiveness. By allowing investors to easily track and manage their licences and permits, the initiative supports business continuity and drives economic growth.
This project aligns with Ajman DED’s vision of offering forward-thinking services that cater to investor needs while promoting regulatory compliance and ensuring licence data remains up to date. Its positive impact is anticipated to improve operational efficiency, boost revenue, and further establish Ajman as a prime investment destination.
The future of Ajman’s economy
As Ajman continues its transformation, its economic blueprint aligns with the UAE’s broader vision for sustainable and diversified growth. The emirate’s commitment to innovation, regulatory ease, and investor-friendly policies positions it as a rising star in the Gulf’s business landscape. With expansion plans across multiple sectors, Ajman is carving out a unique niche that combines cost-effectiveness with high-growth potential – offering businesses and investors a strategic foothold in one of the world’s most exciting regions.
