Key Facts about setting a company in Dubai Free Zone
Setup from
5,555 AED
Registration from
5 DAYS
Bank Account
GUARANTEED
Residence Visas for
2 YEARS
Table of Contents
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is an international financial centre and free economic zone located on Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Established in 2013 and fully operational since 2015, ADGM operates as an independent jurisdiction with its own legal system based on English common law, providing a robust and transparent framework for international businesses.
ADGM is home to a diverse range of entities, including global banks, fintech firms, asset managers, and advisory companies, all benefiting from significant tax incentives and a streamlined business environment. The centre is recognized for its innovative regulatory approach, including the world’s first comprehensive crypto asset regulatory framework and the region’s first fully digital courtroom.
Serving as a gateway between East and West, ADGM plays a strategic role in Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification and growth. It offers global connectivity, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and a vibrant ecosystem for professionals and investors looking to establish their presence in the Middle East and beyond.
The Free Zone offers 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of profits, and customizable office, warehouse, and land plot options tailored to logistics, aviation, and commercial enterprises. Quick licensing, visa processing, and specialized zones (e-commerce, aviation, logistics) further enhance its attractiveness for SMEs and large-scale operators alike.
What Business Activities Can You Do in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)?
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) permits a wide range of business activities, making it one of the most versatile international financial centers in the region.
These activities are broadly categorized into financial, non-financial, and retail sectors, each governed by specific licensing and regulatory requirements.
We handle it all – so you don’t have to.
Facilities provided in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
Premium Office Spaces
ADGM offers four Grade A office towers located in ADGM Square, featuring modern and flexible office environments suitable for a wide range of businesses. These spaces are designed to meet international standards, providing advanced meeting rooms and collaborative work areas.
Iconic Buildings and Infrastructure
The ADGM Authorities Building stands as a landmark symbolizing governance and regulatory oversight. The district also includes world-class retail options like The Galleria Mall and luxury hotels such as the Four Seasons and Rosewood Abu Dhabi, enhancing the business and lifestyle experience.
Healthcare Facilities
Access to top-tier medical services is available through the Cleveland Clinic Hospital within the district, ensuring comprehensive healthcare support for residents and workers.
Operational Support Services
Digital Platforms and Community
Businesses benefit from digital tools like AccessRP, which streamline real estate and property-related processes. ADGM also fosters a vibrant professional community, offering regulatory guidance and business support services.
Sustainable and Lifestyle Amenities
The district features landscaped pedestrian areas and sustainable design elements, including LEED Gold certification. A variety of lifestyle amenities make ADGM an attractive destination for living, working, and conducting business.
These comprehensive facilities create a complete business ecosystem that supports companies throughout their operations, from initial setup to ongoing growth and development in one of the region’s most advanced financial centers.
Steps to Start a Business in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) UAE
Step 1: Define Your Business Activity and Legal Structure
Select the nature of your business and choose the appropriate legal structure (e.g., private company, partnership, branch). Decide on company details such as liability type (by shares or guarantee) and whether it will be private or public.
Step 2: Reserve Your Company Name and Secure Office Space
Check the availability of your proposed business name and reserve it through the ADGM Online Registry Solution. Identify and secure a physical office address within ADGM, as a registered office is mandatory (except for certain SPVs).
Step 3: Prepare Required Documentation
Gather necessary documents, including business plan, passport copies of shareholders and directors, proof of address, statement of capital/shareholdings or guarantee, proposed articles of association, statement of proposed officers, trade name reservation documents, and intended registered office address.
Step 4: Apply for In-Principle Approval and Submit Full Application
Submit your initial application for in-principle approval before proceeding to full registration. Once approved, complete and submit the registration and incorporation forms via the ADGM online portal with all required documentation:
- Business plan
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Proof of address
- Statement of capital/shareholdings or guarantee
- Proposed articles of association
- Statement of proposed officers
- Trade name reservation documents
- Intended registered office address
Pay the incorporation application fee (USD 1,500).
Step 5: Obtain Commercial Licence
Upon approval, receive your business licence (processing time: 15–20 working days). Pay the annual licence fee (USD 4,000) and any additional fees as required.
Step 6: Register for Data Protection and Set Up Establishment Card
Comply with ADGM’s data protection regulations, including an initial registration fee and annual renewal. Apply for establishment cards and employee visas if you plan to hire staff.
Step 7: Open a Corporate Bank Account
With your licence and incorporation documents, proceed to open a business bank account.
The entire process typically takes 15-20 working days from submission to licence approval, making ADGM one of the more efficient jurisdictions for business setup in the UAE.
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Licenses
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) issues several types of licenses tailored to the nature of the business activity a company wishes to undertake. The main license categories are:
1. Regulated Financial Services Licenses
These are issued by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) and are required for businesses conducting financial activities. The categories include:
Category 1: For banks (deposit-taking institutions), with a base capital requirement of USD 10 million.
Category 2: For market makers and credit providers, with a base capital of USD 2 million.
Category 3A: For brokerage firms (matched principal brokers), with a base capital of USD 500,000.
Category 3B: For custodians and trustees, with a base capital of USD 4 million.
Category 3C: For asset and fund managers, with a base capital of USD 250,000.
Category 4: For investment and insurance advisors, with a base capital of USD 10,000.
Category 5: For Islamic financial businesses, with a base capital of USD 10 million.
2. Non-Financial and Commercial Licenses
For businesses not engaged in regulated financial activities, ADGM offers licenses such as:
General Trading License: For trading, import/export, and distribution of goods.
Commercial License: For companies selling products or services, both locally and internationally.
Industrial License: For manufacturing and industrial activities within the free zone.
Service License: For professional services like consulting, IT, legal, accounting, and other specialized services.
The specific license required depends on the business activity, and each license comes with its own set of capital requirements and regulatory obligations. ADGM’s licensing framework is designed to provide flexibility and support for a wide range of business models, from startups to multinational institutions.
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) License Costs and Packages
Starting January 1, 2025, Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has introduced a revised fee structure with significant reductions for non-financial and retail business licenses:
License Type | Initial Registration Fee | Annual Renewal Fee | Previous Fee (Initial/Renewal) |
Non-Financial Licenses | USD 5,000 | USD 5,000 | USD 10,000 / USD 8,000 |
Retail Licenses | USD 2,000 | USD 2,000 | USD 6,000 / USD 4,000 |
Financial Licenses | USD 16,700 | USD 16,200 | USD 15,000 / USD 13,000 |
Additional Fees: A protection fee applies to all categories at registration and annual renewal.
Key Benefits of the New Structure
Non-financial licenses have seen a 50% reduction in initial registration fees and a 37.5% reduction in annual renewal fees.
Retail licenses have experienced even more substantial savings, with a 67% reduction in initial registration fees and a 50% reduction in annual renewal fees. Financial licenses have seen a modest increase to align with enhanced regulatory services.
Office Space Requirement
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) requires all businesses to have a physical office space located on either Al Maryah Island or Al Reem Island.
Virtual offices are not accepted, and a signed lease agreement must be submitted during licensing.
License Validity and Renewal
An Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) license is valid for one year from the date of issuance. To continue operating, businesses must renew their license annually before its expiry.
The renewal process requires payment of the annual renewal fee, which—effective January 1, 2025—has been significantly reduced for non-financial and retail categories (to USD 5,000 and USD 2,000, respectively).
The Registrar specifies the validity period on the license itself, and licensees are responsible for ensuring timely renewal to avoid disruptions in their business operations. Renewal must be completed in accordance with ADGM regulations, and failure to renew before expiry may result in penalties or business interruption.
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Residency and Visas
Establishment Card and E-Channels Account
All ADGM-registered entities must first obtain an Establishment Card (valid for 3 years) from the General Directorate of Residence and Foreigners Affairs – Abu Dhabi (GDRFA).
This card is essential for processing any visa-related services. Additionally, companies must set up an E-Channels account (valid for 1 year), which is an online portal for managing visa applications and government services.
Employment and Residency Visas
Employers are responsible for obtaining and maintaining work permits and employer-sponsored residency visas for their employees. The process involves applying for a work permit, securing an entry permit, and completing medical and Emirates ID registration after arrival in the UAE.
Visa quotas are typically linked to the size of the company’s office space, with larger offices allowing for more visas. Employees must not be charged for visa costs or cancellations; these are the employer’s responsibility under ADGM regulations.
New Flexible Work Arrangements (Effective April 1, 2025)
ADGM’s updated employment regulations now allow for remote and part-time work arrangements. Companies can hire remote workers who may reside inside or outside the UAE, provided the employment contract specifies the remote status.
Employers must supply and maintain necessary equipment for remote work, unless otherwise agreed.
Compliance and Regulatory Support
Employers must comply with ADGM’s Employment Regulations 2024 (effective April 1, 2025), ensuring fair treatment, clear employment terms, and proper visa management.
ADGM provides a streamlined, employer-driven visa process with new flexibility for remote and part-time work, aligning with international best practices and supporting a dynamic business environment.
Conclusion
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) offers businesses an exceptional platform with its English common law framework, diverse business activities, and world-class infrastructure.
The 2025 fee reductions make setup more affordable, while flexible visa arrangements and comprehensive facilities support growth. ADGM’s strategic location and streamlined processes make it an ideal choice for companies seeking to establish their presence in the Middle East’s premier financial center.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Establishment Card In ADGM?
The Establishment Card is a mandatory document issued to ADGM-registered companies, allowing them to process residency and employment visas for their staff.
How Are Visa Quotas Determined In ADGM?
Visa quotas are linked to the size of your office space—the larger the office, the more visas you can obtain for employees.
Can ADGM Companies Hire Remote Or Part-Time Workers?
Yes, as of April 2025, ADGM allows remote and part-time work arrangements, including hiring employees residing inside or outside the UAE.
Who Is Responsible For Visa Costs In ADGM?
Employers must bear all visa-related costs, including issuance and cancellation; employees cannot be charged for these expenses.
What Is The Validity Of Employment Visas In ADGM?
Standard employment visas are valid for two years and can be renewed upon expiry.
Are Special Visas Like Green Or Golden Visas Available In ADGM?
Green and Golden Visas are UAE-wide programs, not specific to ADGM, but ADGM-based professionals may be eligible if they meet national criteria.
Do SPVs And Holding Companies Get Visa Eligibility In ADGM?
SPVs and holding companies may have different visa eligibility and requirements, depending on their structure and business activity.
How MenaHerald Can Help You?
Dubai South is rapidly emerging as a hub for logistics, aviation, and e-commerce; but navigating the setup process can still be overwhelming without the right guidance.
At MenaHerald, we simplify the route for you. Whether you’re a startup, SME, or international investor, our experts:
- Help you choose the right license and business activity in Dubai South
- Guide you through document preparation and submission
- Liaise with Dubai South authorities on your behalf
- Ensure your setup is compliant, fast, and cost-effective
- Assist with visa processing, office space, and ongoing renewals
Let us help you unlock growth in Dubai South.
👉 Speak to a Free Zone Specialist Today
Other Blogs
Get Expert Advice
Got a Question? Our expert is ready to Answer and Help!
We will contact you under 1 Minute to analyze your case, provide solutions, and calculate costs.
Get an Expert Support
Fill in your contact details, and we’ll get back to you soon