Set Up Your Company with

Abu Dhabi Global Market

Starting from USD 6,000
  • English Common law
  • Independent jurisdiction
  • 100% foreign ownership
  • Financial hub
  • Tax friendly environment
  • Dual license
  • Office spaces

Overview

Since its establishment in 2015, Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has operated as a financial free zone that plays a key role in driving the financial services sector, in line with Abu Dhabi's Economic Vision. With its own set of civil and commercial laws, ADGM provides a solid legal and regulatory foundation for businesses to thrive.

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Regulatory Authorities

AGDM is governed by three independent authorities

01

Registration Authority

Handles incorporation, registration, and licensing of entities. It also provides government-related services for entities and professionals.

02

Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA)

Ensures a well-regulated financial market in line with international standards, covering banking, insurance, wealth management, asset management, and capital markets.

03

ADGM Courts

The ADGM Courts' apply the English Common Law making it the first jurisdiction in the UAE adopting a similar approach.

Benefits of Incorporating an ADGM Company

  • 100% Foreign Ownership

    Full control over your business.

  • Tax Benefits

    Zero direct tax and 100% profit repatriation.

  • No Capital Requirements

    Flexibility in setting up a business with no minimum capital.

  • Dual Licensing

    Operate in Abu Dhabi mainland without additional office space.

  • Flexible Visa Options

    ADGM provides visa solutions that are adaptable to the requirements of different businesses without office space constraints.

  • Efficient Process

    Easy application and business setup procedures.

  • International Standards

    Alignment with global financial centers like London, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

Types of Business Entities in ADGM

Company Limited by Shares

Holding Company

Special Purpose

Branch of a Foreign Company

Partnership Firm

Representative Office

Business Activities Permitted in ADGM

Non-financial license activities

Consultancy
IT and computer programming
Professional services
Legal and accounting services
Advertising and market research
Real estate
Rental and leasing services
Office administration and support
Education and training
Manufacturing
Publishing and media production

Retail license activities

Manufacturing of food, beverages, textiles, apparel, and chemicals
Wholesale and retail trade
Maintenance and repair services
Postal and courier services
Tourism and travel services
Arts, entertainment, and recreation

Financial license activities

Private banking and wealth management
Investment banking
Digital banking and money services
Asset and fund management
Capital markets and brokerage
FinTech and virtual asset activities

Types of ADGM Companies

Public Company Limited by Shares

Requires at least one shareholder and two directors.

Private Company Limited by Shares/Guarantee

Requires at least one shareholder and one director.

Unlimited Company

Requires at least one shareholder and one director with unlimited liability.

Branch of a Foreign Company

Must have an authorized signatory in the UAE.

Investment Company

Requires at least one shareholder and one approved investment fund manager as a director.

Steps to Obtain Your Business License in ADGM

01

Determine Business Activity

Choose the type of business activity you wish to engage in.


02

Register Trade Name

Select and register a trade name.


03

Prepare Documents

which include required documents, business plan and registration forms.


04

Submit Application

Submit the application along with required documentation.


05

Obtain Initial Approval

Receive preliminary approval from the Registration Authority.


06

Issuance of License

After approval, receive your business license and start operations.

Required Documents for ADGM Free Zone

Passport copies

For all shareholders.


Proof of address

From the shareholders’ country of residence.


Personal profile

For each shareholder.


Bank statements

Last six months of bank statements for each shareholder.


Identification documents

For authorized signatories and directors.


Source of wealth

Documentation detailing the origin of the shareholders’ wealth.

ADGM's legal framework, adherence to international standards, and business setup options makes it an ideal choice for companies looking to establish a strong presence in the UAE.

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