What documents does an American national need to start a marketing consultancy business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United States, attested documents via US Department of State / Secretary of State, and a business plan for your marketing consultancy venture.

How long does it take for an American citizen to set up a marketing consultancy 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 Marketing Consultancy 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 marketing consultancy. Previously, a local sponsor holding 51% was required, but this is no longer the case.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Marketing Consultancy company in Ajman DED?

Most of the setup process for a marketing consultancy business in Ajman DED can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

Can I get a residence visa with my Marketing Consultancy licence from Ajman DED?

Yes, your marketing consultancy licence from Ajman DED entitles you to apply for residence visas. The number of visas depends on your office space size — larger offices qualify for more visas. Each visa costs approximately AED 3,000.

Is Ajman Mainland good for marketing consultancy start-ups?

Ajman DED is one of the most start-up-friendly jurisdictions in the UAE, offering most affordable mainland option and fast licensing process. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 5,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

What business activities can I include on my Ajman DED licence?

Your Ajman DED licence can include marketing consultancy as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Mainland licences can include multiple activities, provided they fall within the same licence category (professional, commercial, or industrial). IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

Marketing Consultancy in Ajman Mainland for American nationals

MainlandProfessional

Marketing Consultancy in Ajman DED

Starting From

AED 5,000

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Ajman

About Marketing Consultancy

Setting up a Marketing Consultancy business in Ajman Mainland as an American citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to United States-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of American business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at Ajman DED has been streamlined significantly, with most professional licences processed within 2 business days. With the recent changes to UAE commercial law, 100% foreign ownership is now available for most mainland activities. The base licence fee is approximately AED 5,000, making it one of the most affordable options in the UAE.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your marketing consultancy business in Ajman Mainland. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why Ajman DED for Marketing Consultancy?

Ajman Mainland is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for professional businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers most affordable mainland option, which is particularly valuable for marketing consultancy 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 marketing consultancy professionals. Furthermore, strategic northern emirates location positions your marketing consultancy 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 professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Most affordable mainland option

Fast licensing process

Trade anywhere in the UAE

Strategic Northern Emirates location

Low operational costs

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

For American entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your marketing consultancy business in Ajman DED.

Banking for American Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your marketing consultancy company in Ajman DED: US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand American business structures.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

Document attestation for American nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in United States, (2) Attestation by US Department of State / Secretary of State, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to marketing consultancy businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by US Department of State / Secretary of State

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Completed application form for trade licence

5Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

6Detailed business plan or activity description

7Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address

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

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 marketing consultancy business plan and the best Ajman DED licence options for American nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the marketing consultancy 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. US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.

Start Operations

Your marketing consultancy 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, American nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including marketing consultancy.

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