What documents does an Australian national need to start a construction business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Australia passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Australia, attested documents via Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and a business plan for your construction venture.

How long does it take for an Australian citizen to set up a construction company in Ajman DED?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 2–5 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 12–22 business days.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Construction company in Ajman Mainland?

Yes, following the recent amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for most mainland activities, including construction. Previously, a local sponsor holding 51% was required, but this is no longer the case.

What documents do I need to set up a Construction business in Ajman DED?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by Dubai Municipality. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

How long does it take to get a Construction licence in Ajman DED?

The typical processing time for a construction licence at Ajman DED is 2 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring Dubai Municipality approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my Ajman DED Construction licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from Ajman DED, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Mainland companies typically have the widest choice of banking partners. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

What are the tax implications for a Construction business in Ajman Mainland?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Mainland companies are subject to the standard 9% corporate tax rate on taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Construction in Ajman Mainland for Australian nationals

MainlandConstructionRegulated Activity

Construction in Ajman DED

Starting From

AED 5,000

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Ajman

About Construction

The UAE continues to attract Australian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Ajman DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for construction operations. Growing Australian business community (~25,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Ajman Mainland gives your Construction business access to Ajman's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from Dubai Municipality before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up construction businesses in Ajman Mainland since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why Ajman DED for Construction?

Choosing Ajman DED for your construction business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers most affordable mainland option, which is particularly valuable for construction operations. Additionally, fast licensing process ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. Operating on the mainland allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions, and you can bid on government contracts — a significant advantage over free zone entities. Office solutions start from AED 3,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Trade anywhere in the UAE further enhances the appeal of Ajman DED for construction professionals. Furthermore, strategic northern emirates location positions your construction business for long-term success in the region. With Ajman continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Ajman DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established construction enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Australian nationals specifically, the Ajman government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Australian business community.

Most affordable mainland option

Fast licensing process

Trade anywhere in the UAE

Strategic Northern Emirates location

Low operational costs

Visa Requirements for Australian Nationals

Australian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your construction licence is issued by Ajman DED, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 7–14 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Australian Business Owners

Australian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Commonwealth banking standards are recognised by UAE banks. For your construction business in Ajman DED, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Australian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Australia-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Australian Nationals

Australian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for construction), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to Ajman DED.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Australia passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Completed application form for trade licence

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Passport-sized photographs with white background

7Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality

8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

Regulatory Note: Construction is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Dubai Municipality is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	5,000
Visa Package (per visa)	3,000
Ejari Office	5,000
Co-Working	3,000
Private Office	10,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 13,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your construction business plan and the best Ajman DED licence options for Australian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Australia through Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the construction licence application to Ajman DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official Ajman DED trade licence within 2–5 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Australian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Australian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

Start Operations

Your construction business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 2 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Since the UAE's 2020 Commercial Companies Law amendment, Australian nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including construction.

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