Abu Dhabi Global Market ADGM
Looking to enter a market dedicated to financial services? Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), expanding since 2013, has grown into one of the country’s best international financial centres. It’s a free zone located on the Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, providing the right business environment for banks, firms, and companies in the financial sector.
Here’s what makes ADGM truly special:
- It is the first jurisdiction in the Middle East to directly apply English Common Law, ensuring transparency and global investor confidence.
- It has a fully integrated regulatory environment that sustains fintech, asset management, and sustainable finance.
- It is home to ADGM Courts, the region’s first fully digital judicial system, offering innovative dispute resolution with e-courts and remote access.
The zone is run by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), which has over 1800 growing companies registered with it. ADGM offers an easy process for setting up a new company and business-friendly regulatory services.
Starting a new company in ADGM UAE can be difficult. It is important to understand the process, laws, and options offered by the zone. This guide walks you through everything you should know to that your business in ADGM with ease!
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ADGM Business Licenses and Categories
- Financial
- Non-Financial
- Retail
This zone is mainly dedicated to financial services with some room for non-financial activities as well. If your activities include providing any financial services, your business sector and license will fall under this category.
It includes businesses such as banking & money services, wealth and asset management, capital market firms, digital assets holding companies, and Fintech companies.
This covers the professional and corporate activities that are not relevant to financial services. It holds much importance in the zone and has much scope to be explored.
Business examples include head offices, treasuries, holding companies, SPVs, professional associations, profit or non-profit foundations, innovative tech startups, etc.
Apart from business-specific infrastructure, ADGM is a great place for retail and entertainment services. With so many businesses and companies present, it needs its own restaurants, entertainment spaces, retail businesses, etc.
Examples of business activities under this category include fashion & accessories, electronics & tech stores, automotive showrooms, fine jewelry & watches, department stores, gourmet food & beverage, cinemas & theaters.
Top Selling AGDM
Promotions
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 11,900.00
Save up to AED 1,785.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 17,900.00
Save up to AED 2,685.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 21,900.00
Save up to AED 3,285.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 25,400.00
Save up to AED 3,810.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 23,900.00
Save up to AED 3,585.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 27,400.00
Save up to AED 4,110.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 25,900.00
Save up to AED 3,885.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 29,400.00
Save up to AED 4,410.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 27,900.00
Save up to AED 4,185.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 31,400.00
Save up to AED 4,710.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 29,900.00
Save up to AED 4,485.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 33,400.00
Save up to AED 5,010.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 21,900.00
Save up to AED 3,285.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 27,900.00
Save up to AED 4,185.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 31,900.00
Save up to AED 4,785.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 35,400.00
Save up to AED 5,310.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 33,900.00
Save up to AED 5,085.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 37,400.00
Save up to AED 5,610.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 35,900.00
Save up to AED 5,385.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 39,400.00
Save up to AED 5,910.00
Executive Contains
Business Incorporation Starter Pack
- 1 Free Visa Processing for Employee from A to Z
- OR
- 1 Free Visa Processing for Dependents from A to Z
- Health Insurance Assistance
- VAT Registration – One Time Only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP assistance for visa application and Company incorporation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 37,900.00
Save up to AED 5,685.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 41,400.00
Save up to AED 6,210.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 39,900.00
Save up to AED 5,985.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 43,400.00
Save up to AED 6,510.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Process and Timeline
- 1Should be 18 years old and above
- 2Should not have any criminal records
- 3The business should be legally permissible
- 4Should be an individual, corporate or mixed of both
Company Registration
For Individual Shareholder/s
1. Scanned passport copy
2. Emirates ID copy (back & front), if applicable
3. Scanned visa copy/UAE Entry Stamp/Tourist or Visit Visa Copy
4. Number of Shareholders with sharing (%) of Manager of the company
If Manager is not a Shareholder:
1. Full Name as per the passport
2. Valid Phone Number
3. UAE Home Address
4. Scanned passport copy
5. Passport size with white background
6. Scanned copy of the visa page
7. Emirates ID copy (back & front)
For Corporate Shareholder/s
1. Board resolution
2. Trade License, MOA, Incumbency, Share Certificate of the shareholding company
3. Passport copy/ies of the UBO/s
4. Passport copy/ies of the Manager/s
5. Visa of the Manager/s if UAE resident
6. UAE Home address of the Authorized Signatory
7. Passport size photo of the Authorized signatory
8. Number of Shareholders with sharing (%) of Manager of the company
Residence Visa Application
Company Documents
1. Trade License copy
2. Establishment Card copy
Applicant
1. Scanned passport copy, should be current and valid for at least 6 months – coloured, uncut with full border
2. Passport size photo with white background
3. Tourist or visit visa/Residence Cancellation report copy (if applicable)
4. Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
5. Duly filled visa application form
License Package Fees
Standard License – Zero Visa Package
Starts from
AED 11,900
Standard License – With Visa Package
Starts from
AED 17,900
Immigration Fees
Establishment Card – New
AED 2,000
Establishment Card – Renewal
AED 2,200
Visa Application Fees
Residence Visa – 3 years
AED 3,750
Additional AED 1,000 on the visa fee if applying for an Investor/Partner Visa and an AED 48,000 share capital is required.
Change Status
AED 1,600
Applicable if within the UAE application only.
Medical Test
Normal (48 hours) – AED 450
VIP (within 24 hrs) – AED 750
Emirates ID – 3 years
AED 375
Company Registration
Trade Name Approval
1 business day
Shareholder’s Security Approval
5-7 business days
Trade License Issuance
3-4 business days
Establishment Card Application
1 business day
Establishment Card Issuance
5-7 business daysResidence Visa Application
Electronic Visa Application
5-7 business daysClient Arrival (if outside the UAE) | Change Status (if within the UAE)
Depends on the client | 2-3 business daysMedical Test
1 business dayMedical Test Result Release
Normal - 2 business days | VIP - within the dayEmirates ID Typing
1 business day
Obtaining Health Insurance
Depends on the client | Mandatory if applying in Dubai & Abu Dhabi
Visa Approval
5-7 business days
Emirates ID Biometrics & Photo Capturing
Approx. 15-20 business days from the date of Emirates ID typing
Emirates ID Issuance
5 business daysSteps to Set Up Company in Abu Dhabi Global Market ADGM
Decide what activities your business will engage in. It decides the type of license you need in the ADGM, United Arab Emirates. Explore different companies and decide on a legal framework that suits your business goals and preferences.
Select and submit a name for your company to be approved. It has to be unique and must not in any way be offensive to the norms of society. Submit the name preference along with the rest of the application.
Get an office space that suits your business needs and budget. ADGM offers diverse options to suit a wide range of business specifications. Finalize the lease agreement once you find the right place and make payment.
Ready the required documents. This step is important. A mistake can result in delays or fines. Ensure the documents you’re providing are valid and correct.
Apply for the visas according to your requirements. This award-winning international financial center is known for its easy residency visa services and accommodating registration authority.
Fill all the details discussed above and submit the application. It takes the authorities a few days to review the application for acceptance. Once accepted, provide any other information or documents if required and start your business activities.
Benefits of Abu Dhabi Global Market Setup
Global investor trust
Strong financial hub
Digital court system
100% foreign ownership
No corporate tax
Fast business setup
Fintech-friendly laws
Transparent regulations
Strategic UAE location
Innovative dispute resolution
Popular Legal Entities in ADGM Free Zone UAE
LTD
A Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) is the most common choice in ADGM. It provides limited liability for shareholders. It requires at least one shareholder and one director.
Branch
A Branch of a Foreign Company allows international businesses to establish a presence in ADGM without creating a separate legal entity. It remains part of the parent company while operating under ADGM regulations.
LLP
A Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) is ideal for professional services firms, offering limited liability to partners while maintaining a separate legal identity. It requires at least two partners.
ADGM's Independent Authorities
Registration Authority
Explanation: This body handles the registration, licensing, and incorporation of businesses in ADGM.
Roles: It ensures companies meet legal standards and facilitates government-related services for businesses.
Financial Services Regulatory Authority
Explanation: This authority ensures fairness in ADGM’s financial institutions and markets.
Roles: It enforces regulations, promotes transparency, and ensures the market remains efficient and trustworthy.
ADGM Courts
Explanation: ADGM has its own regulatory framework to resolve conflicts. Its courts follow English common law for legal cases.
Roles: They manage disputes within ADGM, providing first-instance and appeal courts.
ADGM Authority
Explanation: The Authority oversees ADGM’s strategy and services. It is responsible for making the zone a successful global financial free zone.
Roles: It enhances ADGM’s community and supports its growth as a global business hub.
How to Simplify the Company Formation Process in ADGM?
The best practice to tackle that is to hire a consultancy service. IBG Consultancy helps businesses set up and grow with its years of experience in the industry and packages suited to a wide range of business owners. Explore and find your solutions with IBG Consultancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes ADGM a premier international financial centre?
ADGM is the perfect destination for businesses due to its robust regulatory framework, alignment with international standards and best practices, and its strategic location within Abu Dhabi. It plays a key role in strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as an international financial hub.
How does ADGM compare to other financial freezones in the region?
Unlike other financial freezones, ADGM operates within Abu Dhabi’s economic framework while applying English Common Judicial Law. It also has three independent authorities regulating business and finance, ensuring transparency and stability for financial institutions.
What type of businesses can operate within the ADGM district?
ADGM offers a business environment that welcomes financial activities, professional and business services, asset management firms, and corporate headquarters and various management offices. The licensing of legal entities is structured to accommodate businesses across multiple sectors.
How does the zone’s regulatory framework benefit companies?
The framework is designed to align with international standards and best practices of international financial markets. It ensures legal and operational platform stability for companies in ADGM, allowing them to compete in regional and international economies.
What are the benefits of establishing a legal entity in ADGM?
Businesses registered in the zone benefit from a tax-free environment, 100% foreign ownership, and access to global institutions. ADGM registered businesses also gain credibility in international financial markets, making it easier to attract international investors.
What is the role of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development in the zone?
The Dhabi Department of Economic Development collaborates with the zone’s independent authorities to support economic growth, encourage business in the zone, and regulate aspects of commercial license approvals.
What services does the zone offer to new businesses?
The zone offers a range of services, including financial services permission, company registration, legal and operational platform support, and access to the public register for transparency in business dealings.
How does the zone contribute to attracting global businesses?
By providing a business-friendly regulatory framework and a stable financial market, the zone is committed to attracting global financial and professional firms. The zone located in the heart of Abu Dhabi ensures proximity to leading financial institutions.
What is the significance of the First Abu Dhabi Bank in the zone?
First Abu Dhabi Bank plays a key role in supporting financial businesses within the zone, providing essential banking services that facilitate investments and trade within Abu Dhabi city and beyond.
How does the zone support domicile holding companies and corporate headquarters?
Zone’s commercial setup allows corporate headquarters and various management firms to establish a legal entity within Abu Dhabi. It also provides legal certainty with civil and commercial laws, ensuring smooth business operations.
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