The Ajman Free Zone has entered into a strategic memorandum of understanding with the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts, signed at the DIFC headquarters. This initiative underscores Ajman Free Zone’s commitment to enhancing the legal framework of its expanding business ecosystem and establishing investor confidence.
The memorandum was signed by Judge Omar Al Muhairi, the Director of DIFC Courts, and Rishi Soumya, CEO of Ajman Free Zone. The agreement aims to create an official framework for collaboration and information exchange in areas of mutual interest.
The partnership will enable clients of Ajman Free Zone to access a comprehensive range of legal services offered by DIFC Courts, including small claims court, first-instance court, appellate court, enforcement services, mediation, wills and estates, notary services, courtroom rentals, and legal support programs.
This step reflects a forward-looking approach to enhancing the business environment by providing legal clarity and regulatory transparency, which will raise investor awareness about internationally recognized dispute resolution mechanisms and facilitate access to reliable legal services within the UAE. The agreement also includes the implementation of joint initiatives such as seminars, conferences, and outreach programs, along with the exchange of legal publications and regulatory updates.
This collaboration comes at a time when free zones in the UAE continue to play a vital role in supporting the national economy, with expectations that their contribution will reach approximately AED 257 billion in the non-oil GDP by 2030. Meanwhile, DIFC is enhancing its global standing, with the number of registered companies exceeding 8,800 by 2025.
Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Sultan Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Free Zone, emphasized that establishing a robust legal framework is a strategic priority that aligns with the growing investor base, noting that this partnership strengthens the principles of transparency and governance and supports Ajman Vision 2030.
Judge Omar Al Muhairi highlighted, “The memorandum reinforces legal certainty and boosts investor confidence across the UAE’s free zone ecosystem. By broadening access to the internationally recognized services of DIFC Courts, this partnership contributes to strengthening the legal framework that supports fast-growing business communities and enhances their stability and sustainability.”
In line with the strategic priorities of DIFC Courts, including expanding international presence, establishing judicial excellence, and ensuring efficient and effective enforcement, this partnership aims to solidify DIFC Courts’ position as a leading global platform for dispute resolution and as a reliable reference for ensuring certainty and stability in business transactions.
Rishi Soumya noted that investment confidence hinges on clarity, speed, and legal certainty, affirming that collaboration with DIFC Courts enhances the value offered to the business community and provides companies with a solid framework for dispute resolution.
This cooperation marks the rapid growth that the Ajman Free Zone has experienced since its inception in October 2024, having successfully registered over 6,500 companies in its first year, supported by an integrated digital platform that enables license issuance within two hours and visa processing within 24 hours, facilitating ease of doing business and attracting foreign investments.