Interview: Ismail Al Naqi
How is Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) engineering economic transformation and positioning itself as a destination for foreign investment?
ISMAIL AL NAQI: Fostering an environment that supports innovation, investment, entrepreneurship and sustainable practices is pivotal to AFZ’s role in driving economic growth. Through the emirate’s modern infrastructure and business-friendly policies, companies are afforded the tools to adapt to evolving global and regional trends, aligning with the UAE’s vision of a knowledge-based economy characterised by agility and collaboration.
The free zone’s approach to economic transformation focuses on nurturing high-growth sectors that meet regional demands and global trends. Key pillars include advanced manufacturing, entrepreneurship, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), trade and logistics. AFZ aims to bolster entrepreneurship and SMEs, the lifeblood of the economy, through a number of initiatives. Flexible workspaces, funding opportunities and access to global networks help transform ideas into scaleable ventures. This interconnected environment fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange, enabling businesses to scale effectively while contributing to economic diversification.
In what ways has technology facilitated the way in which the private sector utilises AFZ?
AL NAQI: In manufacturing, AFZ leverages purpose-built facilities and proximity to domestic and international markets. These assets make the free zone a centre for next-generation manufacturing practices, integrating innovation and sustainability into production processes. Such initiatives ensure that manufacturing remains competitive and aligned with future demands. Furthermore, the trade and logistics sector is supported by the integration of Ajman Port with AFZ’s infrastructure and regional transport networks. Ajman Port serves as a key gateway, offering intermodal connectivity that facilitates the efficient movement of goods between local and international markets. Businesses operating within the free zone benefit from strategic access to maritime routes and advanced port facilities, which enhance cargo handling and reduce turnaround times. This connectivity minimises costs and enables faster transit, which is crucial for industries reliant on timely delivery. Additionally, technologies employed within the port and free zone provide real-time supply chain visibility, allowing companies to optimise their operations and respond to market demands.
To what extent is AFZ enabling the adoption of sustainable practices and emerging technologies?
AL NAQI: Embedding sustainability and advanced technologies into its operations is essential to AFZ’s standing as a modern economic zone. The free zone’s balanced approach ensures businesses operate in an environment that prioritises eco-conscious practices and technological innovation. Sustainability is a key consideration in AFZ’s infrastructure, with dedicated green zones featuring eco-friendly warehouses. These facilities incorporate energy-efficient technologies, waste management solutions and renewable energy systems such as solar panels, enabling businesses to minimise their environmental impact. Financial incentives, such as registration fee exemptions and discounts on sustainable warehouse rentals encourage companies to adopt environmentally responsible practices. The publication of an annual sustainability report communicates AFZ’s commitment to environmental stewardship, and aligns with global standards by providing a transparent framework for measuring progress in sustainability and economic performance. Technology adoption is another cornerstone of AFZ’s strategy to enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness, with these advancements streamlining processes. Significant investment in digital transformation has facilitated the automation of key services by introducing e-transaction portals and establishing a paperless operational framework.
