Ajman NuVentures Centre Free Zone (ANCFZ)

ANCFZ is the newest free zone in this guide. Ajman's ruler issued an Emiri decree in 2023 creating a free zone under the official Arabic-derived name Ajman Centre for New Projects, which was announced publicly in January 2024. It was branded as Ajman NuVentures Centre and started registering companies in October 2024.

Its whole pitch is speed through software. Applications, document uploads, payments and approvals run through one online portal, and the zone has marketed licence issue in about two hours and residence visas in one to two days. Real timelines depend on how quickly you upload correct documents and complete medical and ID steps, but the system is noticeably faster than older zones that still rely on email and manual checks.

Uptake has been strong. Wire reports in November 2025 said more than 6,500 companies had registered in roughly the first year, with close to half of the new firms owned by Indian founders. The zone said it aimed to pass 10,000 companies during 2026 and held roadshows in Indian cities to support that.

ANCFZ has also signed partnerships to add credibility for a young zone. A memorandum with DIFC Courts gives companies access to that court system for dispute resolution, and a link with a UAE digital bank was announced to ease account opening. Both are useful, but they do not replace a careful bank application.

Be careful not to confuse ANCFZ with Ajman Free Zone, the emirate's long-established zone near the port, or with Ajman Media City. They are separate authorities with different packages and rules.

For founders, the practical question is whether a new zone will be around and well regarded in five years. ANCFZ is backed by the Ajman government through its founding decree, which gives it the same legal footing as older zones. What it lacks is history, so expect some banks, landlords and overseas partners to ask what it is, and keep a short explanation and the decree reference handy.

Visas at ANCFZ are tied to the package you buy. The entry licence has no visa, while visa packages include one, two or a few more depending on the workspace. A cap applies to how many residence visas a company can sponsor, so ask about growth options before you commit.

The steps are the standard UAE ones: immigration file, entry permit or change of status, medical test, biometrics and visa issue. The zone's speed promises apply to its own approvals; government medical and ID centres still need their own time, so allow about a week in the UAE.

Owners usually take an investor or partner visa, and staff get employment visas. Once your visa is active you can sponsor a spouse and children if you meet the income and housing rules, and the family visas run in line with yours.

As a young zone, ANCFZ licences are newer to bank compliance teams. A partnership with a digital bank was announced to make onboarding easier, and many founders start there. Traditional banks will still check your activity, residence, source of funds and client base.

Prepare a short business plan, proof of address, bank statements and a website or portfolio. Having a UAE residence visa usually improves your chances considerably.

Published details place the ANCFZ head office in Ajman city, near Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street in the Al Rashidiya area, with a representative office in Dubai. Confirm the current address before visiting.

Ajman borders Sharjah and is about 30 to 45 minutes from Dubai by road outside rush hour. Sharjah International Airport is the closest major airport, and Dubai International is reachable within an hour.