Import Export in Ajman Mainland for Canadian nationals
MainlandCommercial

Import Export in Ajman DED

Starting From

AED 5,000

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Ajman

About Import Export

The UAE continues to attract Canadian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Ajman DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for import export operations. Growing Canadian business community (~40,000), 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 Import Export business access to Ajman's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, private office and excellent connectivity. The Import Export activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up import export 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 Import Export?

Choosing Ajman DED for your import export 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 import export 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 import export professionals. Furthermore, strategic northern emirates location positions your import export 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 commercial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Most affordable mainland option
Fast licensing process
Trade anywhere in the UAE
Strategic Northern Emirates location
Low operational costs

Visa Requirements for Canadian Nationals

Canadian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your import export 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 Canadian Business Owners

Canadian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong Canadian-UAE relations facilitate banking processes. For your import export business in Ajman DED, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Canadian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Canada-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Canadian Nationals

Canadian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for import export), 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 Canada passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
6No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable
7Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development
8Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee5,000
Visa Package (per visa)3,000
Ejari Office5,000
Co-Working3,000
Private Office10,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 13,000

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

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your import export business plan and the best Ajman DED licence options for Canadian nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Canada through Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

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

4

Trade Licence Issued

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

5

Visa Processing

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

6

Bank Account

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

7

Start Operations

Your import export 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, Canadian nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including import export.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your import export in Ajman DED? Our team is here to help.

SPEAK TO AN ADVISORWHATSAPP US

Quick Facts

JurisdictionAjman DED
Typemainland
EmirateAjman
License FeeAED 5,000
Setup Time2 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code47110

Official Source

www.ajman.ae

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

Ready to Start Your Import Export?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your import export in Ajman DED. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.