Ajman NuVentures Centre Free Zone and DIFC Courts Sign MoU to Enhance Legal Services
DUBAI, UAE — March 17, 2026 — Ajman NuVentures Centre Free Zone (ANCFZ) and DIFC Courts announced a Memorandum of Understanding signed on February 26, 2026, to strengthen legal infrastructure and enhance investor confidence. The partnership enables ANCFZ clients to access DIFC’s dispute resolution services, including the Small Claims Tribunal, Court of First Instance, Mediation, and Wills service.
Announcement Specifics
Rishi Somaiya, CEO of ANCFZ, and H.E. Justice Omar Al Mheiri, Director of DIFC Courts, executed the agreement at DIFC in Dubai. The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation, consultation, and information exchange through joint seminars, conferences, and shared legal services. The agreement took effect immediately upon signing. Since its launch in October 2024, ANCFZ has registered over 6,500 companies, issuing licenses in 2 hours and visas in 24 hours.
Stakeholder Perspectives
“As we continue to expand our investor base and global reach, strengthening the legal and regulatory ecosystem surrounding our Free Zone is essential. This partnership with the DIFC Courts reinforces our commitment to transparency, governance, and international best practices, in line with Ajman Vision 2030 and the UAE’s broader economic diversification agenda.”
— Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Sultan Al Nuaimi, Chairman of ANCFZ
Why it matters: The statement connects the partnership to national economic diversification objectives and positions ANCFZ as aligned with UAE’s strategic vision.
“Investor confidence is built on clarity, speed, and legal certainty. By formalizing cooperation with the DIFC Courts, we are enhancing the value proposition of ANCFZ and ensuring that businesses operating within our ecosystem benefit from greater awareness of robust dispute resolution frameworks available in the UAE.”
— Rishi Somaiya, CEO of ANCFZ
Why it matters: This emphasizes the practical business benefits of accessible, efficient legal infrastructure for free zone companies.
Industry Context
The UAE operates over 40 free zones projected to contribute AED 257 billion to non-oil GDP by 2030. DIFC Courts provide an independent English common law system for commercial disputes, serving as a cornerstone of Dubai’s financial infrastructure. In 2025, DIFC registered 8,800 firms, representing a 40% increase. The collaboration bridges Ajman and Dubai jurisdictions, enhancing ANCFZ’s competitive positioning by leveraging DIFC’s established global judicial reputation. This intra-UAE partnership reflects deepening emirate synergies designed to attract GCC and international businesses prioritizing legal clarity in rapidly diversifying economies.
Conclusion
The MoU positions ANCFZ for accelerated growth by providing clients with access to internationally recognized dispute resolution services, likely spurring additional company registrations and reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in the regional free zone sector.
Sources: Zawya, ANCFZ, DIFC Courts
