Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)

800 – LICENSE

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Company Formation

About ADGM

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is a leader in the financial centre in the capital of the United Arab Emirates. It provides an extensive portfolio of financial services such as asset management, private banking, Islamic finance, capital raising and secure and controlled environment of international business.

In the year 2013, the ADGM was formed to enhance the status of Abu Dhabi as an international business destination. Having an impressive mix of state-of-the-art infrastructure and a friendly business and regulatory climate, ADGM is a reliable business partner that helps to reach new heights and thrive.

Have Any Questions?

Legal Framework of ADGM

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) operates under an independent legal framework separate from the UAE’s mainland system. It is governed by three key authorities that ensure businesses follow internationally recognized regulations and global financial standards.

Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA)

The FSRA is responsible for regulating and supervising all financial services and institutions operating within ADGM.

Registration Authority

The Registration Authority manages the incorporation and registration of companies, partnerships, and other legal business entities established in ADGM.

ADGM Courts

ADGM Courts oversee the administration of justice, handling legal disputes and ensuring fair and transparent legal proceedings within the jurisdiction.

Advantages of Setting Up Your Business in ADGM

With its dynamic business environment and international reputation, establishing a company in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) offers several benefits for both local and international entrepreneurs.

Ease of Doing Business

ADGM allows 100% foreign ownership, with no restrictions on capital repatriation, currency transactions, or hiring foreign employees, making it an attractive destination for global investors.

Strong Regulatory Framework

ADGM operates under English common law, a globally recognized legal system that ensures transparency, fairness, and strong regulatory standards. Its legal framework also supports seamless cross-border business activities.

Tax Advantages

Businesses in ADGM benefit from zero personal income tax and a competitive corporate tax rate of 9% where applicable, providing a favorable financial environment.

Strategic Location

Located at the heart of the Middle East, ADGM provides convenient access to major markets across Asia, Africa, and Europe, with close proximity to major international airports such as Dubai International Airport.

Thriving Business Ecosystem

ADGM hosts a vibrant ecosystem of startups, accelerators, and innovation hubs such as Hub71 and startAD, supported by a skilled workforce and world-class infrastructure.

Flexible Visa Packages

ADGM offers flexible visa options that allow entrepreneurs and professionals to obtain business licenses, residency visas, and other necessary permits to operate and grow their businesses in the UAE.

Discover Flexible Monthly
Payment Plans

In Partnership with Leading Banks

Turn your business setup expenses into convenient, budget-friendly monthly instalments through our selected banking partners. Simply spend a minimum of AED 1,000 using a credit card issued by any participating bank and repay the amount in easy instalments for up to 12 months.

How to Apply for the Easy Payment Plan

Steps

Types of Licenses Offered in ADGM

Businesses established in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) can operate under different license categories depending on the nature of their activities. These are generally divided into two main groups: financial and non-financial businesses.

Financial Business

Financial businesses in ADGM are companies that provide financial products and services to individuals, corporations, and other institutions. These entities operate under a regulated framework to ensure transparency and compliance with global financial standards.

Activities under Financial Business include:

Investment Banking
Asset Management and Funds
FinTech Services
Capital Markets
Investment Advisory and Wealth Management
Insurance Services
Payment and Clearing Services
Credit Rating Agencies
Auditing and Accounting Firms
Brokerage Services

Non-Financial Business

Non-financial businesses in ADGM include companies involved in commercial or professional activities that do not directly deal with financial instruments or monetary services.

Activities under Non-Financial Business include:

Technology and Innovation Companies
Business Consulting Firms
Retail and Consumer Goods Businesses
Real Estate and Property Development Companies
Healthcare and Medical Services
Education and Training Providers
Hospitality and Tourism Businesses
Manufacturing and Industrial Companies

Business Structures under ADGM

The types of companies that can be registered in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) are regulated by its governing authorities. ADGM offers several flexible business structures designed to suit different business objectives and investment needs.

Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV)

A Special Purpose Vehicle in ADGM is created to hold assets, manage investments, or support specific financial transactions on behalf of investors or beneficiaries. One major advantage of an SPV is the separation of legal identity, ensuring that the liabilities of the SPV do not affect the assets of shareholders or related companies.

Get Started

Branch Office

A branch office allows an existing company outside the UAE to extend its operations into ADGM. It operates as an extension of the parent company and can conduct business activities similar to those of the main entity.

Get Started

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business owned and managed by a single individual. The owner has complete control over operations and is personally responsible for all debts and obligations of the business.

Get Started

Partnership

A partnership is formed when two or more individuals or entities collaborate to run a business. Partnerships in ADGM can be structured as general partnerships or limited partnerships. In a general partnership, all partners share equal responsibility for liabilities, while in a limited partnership, some partners have limited liability based on their investment.

Get Started

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is one of the most widely used business structures in ADGM, particularly for foreign investors. This structure protects the personal assets of the owners by limiting their liability to their share in the company.

Get Started

Steps to Set Up Your Company in ADGM

Establishing a company in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) generally follows a structured process, regardless of the business activity. Below are the key steps involved in setting up your company in ADGM.

1. Select a Trade Name

Begin by choosing a unique name for your company. The name must comply with ADGM naming guidelines and should not duplicate or closely resemble any existing registered business name.

2. Choose the Appropriate Business Structure

Determine the most suitable business structure for your company. The selected structure will define factors such as shareholder arrangements, ownership, and liability responsibilities.

3. Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MOA)

The Memorandum of Association is a crucial legal document required for company formation. It should include essential information about shareholders, company objectives, operational structure, and governing policies, and must be properly attested.

4. Submit the Registration Application

Once the MOA and other required documents are ready, submit your company registration application to the ADGM Registration Authority for review and approval.

5. Obtain Your Business License

Once incorporation is underway, open a corporate bank account to manage your offshore company’s financial transactions. Relevant banking documents will form part of the final application process.

800 – LICENSE