ADGM Company Formation & Registration

Get Business Setup Cost in Dubai

ADGM Business Setup

ADGM, or Abu Dhabi Global Market, is a leading free zone located on Al Maryah Island, the financial district of Abu Dhabi, UAE. This strategic location has made ADGM a preferred destination for businesses looking to establish themselves in the region. With over 2,000 active businesses, ADGM has proven its ability to attract both local and international companies.

ADGM is widely recognized for its robust regulatory framework that promotes stability, transparency, and investor confidence. Though initially tailored for the financial services sector, ADGM is a versatile ecosystem catering to various industries, including retail, Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), and non-financial businesses.

This flexibility makes it a prime location for ADGM company formation, as it provides the infrastructure and legal backing necessary for smooth business operations.

License cost in ADGM varies based on the nature of the business and the type of license required. The cost structure for ADGM company formation is competitive, with several options designed to cater to the needs of different industries. The license fees in ADGM typically cover all essential business activities, from banking and investment management to insurance and fintech.

ADGM offers numerous advantages to businesses, including access to a skilled workforce, world-class amenities, and a vibrant community of entrepreneurs and innovators.

Overall, ADGM company formation is an attractive choice for businesses aiming for growth and global expansion. The license cost in ADGM is a worthwhile investment due to the zone's strategic location, comprehensive regulatory environment, and thriving business community.

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ADGM Business Setup Advantages

Full Foreign Ownership

International businesses do not require a local Emirati sponsor to be a partner to operate, maintaining 100% ownership.

Tax Incentives

Businesses enjoy a tax holiday for 50 years, also there is no withholding tax on dividends, interest, or royalties.

Independent Regulatory Authority

Operating under the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) that ensures compliance with international standards whilst maintaining customized industry laws.

Modern Infrastructure

ADGM offers state-of-the-art office spaces with excellent infrastructure, meeting facilities, and support services.

Double Taxation Treaties

The UAE has taxation agreements with over 135 countries that prevent businesses from paying tax on the same income twice.

Common Law Framework

The English Common Law is practiced in the jurisdiction, which is widely recognized and trusted by international businesses.

Strong Business Ecosystem

ADGM fosters a collaborative ecosystem that encourages business networking, partnerships, and growth.

Innovation and Fintech Hub

It offers sandbox programs and innovation licenses to startups and tech companies, including testing their products and services in a controlled environment.

License Available in ADGM

Financial Services License: For businesses engaged in financial activities, including banking, asset management, insurance, investment funds, brokerage, and other financial services.

Non-Financial License: For businesses involved in non-financial activities, such as education, manufacturing, hospitality, media, logistics, general trading and others.

Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) License: SPVs are used for holding, financing, or isolating financial and legal risks, including asset holding, intellectual property rights management, and structured finance transactions.

Professional Services License: For businesses providing specialized services such as management consultancy, legal services, marketing consultancy, IT, and more.

Tech Startup and Innovation License: Tailored for tech-driven startups and fintech companies.

Retail License: For businesses operating in the retail sector, including physical outlets, restaurants, cafes, and other retail-related activities.

Fund Management License: For specific financial businesses involved in managing investment funds, whether private equity, venture capital, or real estate funds.

Family Office License: Tailored for family-owned businesses and private wealth management entities.

Freelancer License: For individuals looking to offer professional or consultancy services on a freelance basis.

Get Started

01 Initial Consultation

Engage with ADGM representatives or a business consultant to discuss your business requirements, industry focus, and licensing needs.

Takes 1 to 2 days

02 Submit Application

Complete and submit the online application through the ADGM portal, providing essential details.

Takes 1 day

03 Name Reservation

ADGM reviews the application and reserves the company name, ensuring it complies with their naming conventions and guidelines.

Takes 1 day

04 Pre-Approval

ADGM conducts due diligence on the company and its shareholders, which includes background checks and assessments of the proposed business activities.

Takes 3 to 5 days

05 Document Submission

Gather and submit all required documentation.

Takes 3 to 5 days

06 Payment of Fees

Pay the necessary registration and licensing fees associated with establishing the business in ADGM.

Takes 1 day

07 License Issuance

Once all documents are approved and fees are paid, ADGM issues the business license, allowing operations to commence.

Takes 3 to 5 days

08 Office Space Setup

Secure office space within ADGM and sign a lease agreement.

Takes 3 to 10 days

09Visa Processing

Apply for visas for shareholders and employees.

Takes 10 to 15 days

10Bank Account Opening

Open a corporate bank account in Abu Dhabi after obtaining the business license.

Takes 1 to 2 weeks

Documents Required in ADGM

Required documents vary based on the legal structure of the business: Private Limited Company, Limited Liability Partnership, Branch of a Foreign Company, Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), Foundation, and Fund (e.g., QIF or Exempt Fund).

Entity Type	Required Documents
Private Limited Company (PLC)	Articles of Association (AoA)
	Shareholders' passport copies
	Director(s) details
	Proof of registered office address
	Board resolution for company formation (if applicable)
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)	Partnership Agreement
	Partners' passport copies
	Details of managing partners
	Proof of registered office address
	Resolution of the partnership for company formation
Branch of a Foreign Company	Certificate of Incorporation of the parent company
	Memorandum and Articles of Association of parent company
	Board resolution approving branch setup
	Passport copy of branch manager
	Power of attorney for branch manager
	Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV)	Incorporation documents (shareholder structure
Passport copies of shareholders
Registered office address proof
Board resolution for SPV formation
Details of directors and company secretary
Foundation	Charter and By-laws
	Founder(s) passport copies
	Board of Governors details
	Proof of registered office address
	Asset contribution agreement (if applicable)
Fund (e.g., QIF or Exempt Fund)	Fund documentation (e.g., Fund Prospectus, Fund Management Agreement)
	Director(s) passport copies
	Details of fund manager and investment committee
	Proof of registered office address
	Approval from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA)

ADGM Company Formation Cost

The cost of ADGM company formation depends on the type of license required. The starting price for all licenses is AED 73,460 ($20,000). However, the license cost in ADGM can vary depending on the nature of your business and the specific requirements of the license you apply for.

In addition to the license fees, other potential costs include office space, which can vary significantly based on the location and size of the premises within ADGM. If local sponsorship is required, sponsor fees would be an additional expense, though ADGM company formation typically allows 100% foreign ownership, reducing this cost for many international businesses.
Moreover, visa and permit costs are additional factors that can influence the overall cost of setting up a business in ADGM.
Note the price is an estimate and will vary in reality. For an accurate cost breakdown, get in touch with our consultants who can guide you through ADGM company formation and provide an accurate financial estimate tailored to your business needs.

By working with a consultant, you can ensure that all fees are accounted for, making your license cost in ADGM transparent and manageable.

*Note the price is an estimate and will vary in reality. For an accurate cost breakdown, get in touch with our consultants.

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