Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland
Abu Dhabi has gradually entered the list of the most profitable markets in the world. Including oil and minerals, the GDP of Abu Dhabi consists largely of nonoil sectors, including trade, tourism, food, and fashion. With all the sectors thriving, it is high time to start a business setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland and become a part of its diverse economy.
Here’s what makes Abu Dhabi Mainland truly special for Business:
- Abu Dhabi offers useful support to new businesses with low taxes and easy rules.
- It has efficient roads, ports, and airports that help companies trade and grow fast.
- The government invests in tech, energy, and health, so there are many chances to start new ideas.
The region is famous for being the biggest producer of oil and gas. That being its specialty, it also offers other profitable sectors such as hospitality, tourism, real estate, and construction. You can explore emerging avenues too.
Understanding the process to set up your business and obtain an Abu Dhabi Mainland business license is important to avoid any complications and delays. This guide walks you through everything you should know for company formation in Abu Dhabi.
Enquire Now
Types of Mainland Business Licenses in the Abu Dhabi
This type of business license is required for companies and individuals that deal in services instead of products. They offer their professional services and opinions in fields like consulting, legal advice, or education. It’s among the most popular license types in the UAE.
Businesses under this license include law firms, media service providers, consulting agencies, and private tuitions.
This license is essential for businesses in the travel and hospitality sector. The UAE is already a huge attraction internationally for tourism, and this industry is only growing. Starting your business in this industry is a good business choice.
Businesses under the scope of this license include travel agencies, tour operators, and hotels.
This is a commercial permit that allows companies to conduct business operations such as manufacturing, production, or other industrial processes. There are many industrial areas in this emirate where you can set up your factory or company.
Businesses working with this license include factories, food processing plants, and furniture manufacturers.
This type of commercial license is for businesses that are involved in trading goods or commercial activities like retail, wholesale, or import/export. You have to list the products that you will trade while establishing a business in the trade sector.
Examples of businesses under this license include supermarkets, shops, online retailers, or import/export companies.
An agricultural license is required for activities that involve farming, livestock, and food production. Many investors come to the UAE to start their farming businesses for dates and other goods. It’s a very profitable sector.
Business examples include crop farming, beekeeping and honey production, fish farming, aggrotech solution, and greenhouse farming.
Top Selling Abu Dhabi Mainland
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
Required Documents
- Trade name approval
- Passport copies
- Emirates ID (if any)
- Residency visa (if any)
- Initial approval cert
- Memorandum of Association
- Lease or tenancy contract
- Tawtheeq registration
- Business activity list
- Approvals from authorities
- License application form
- Power of attorney (if used)
- Shareholder resolution
- Capital contribution proof
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 for Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland UAE
You need to choose the set of activities your business will perform. This step determines the type of license you need to acquire to set up your company.
Some legal structures, like sole proprietorship, require a Local Service Agent (LSA). Acquire one if needed.
Legal structures fulfill different needs and offer different perks. Select a structure that fits your business needs and goals.
Reserve a unique trade name through the SEDD website or mobile app. The name must not be offensive to the norms of the society.
Obtain initial approval from SEDD. This approval serves as a no-objection certificate and paves the way for the rest of the process.
Prepare a Memorandum of Association (MOA) and other required documents for approval. Ensure the validity and correctness of each document.
Find a suitable office for your business operations. Finalize the lease agreement once you find a suitable pick. Popular options include executive offices, industrial facilities, and shared offices.
It depends on your commercial activity, but additional approvals may be required from different departments or authorities. Get those if required.
Gather all the required documents and submit them along with the fee. Make sure that the submission is in time, or it can cause delays or fines.
Once your application is approved, you will receive your trade license. Now, you can start your business operations in the market.
Start a commercial bank account to streamline the company’s financial processes and get the visas for shareholders and employees to start company operations.
Benefits of Company Formation in Abu Dhabi
0% income tax
Easy biz setup
100% ownership
Global air access
Top logistics hub
Govt startup funds
Low import duties
Strong legal system
Smart city zones
Skilled talent pool
Key Information and Highlights for Business in Abu Dhabi
Cost Breakdown
On average, total costs range from AED 19,000 to AED 29,000. The exact cost varies based on specific business requirements like location and number of visas, and business activities.
Common Challenges
Startups and companies often struggle with laws, financing office spaces, legal structures, and additional approvals. The best solution is to hire a consultancy like IBG Consultancy to conduct the processes for you efficiently.
Entrepreneurship
Abu Dhabi Mainland is best known for its entrepreneurship opportunities. You can operate anywhere in the emirate and sign private as well as government contracts. That’s why global industries and brands thrive here.
Types of Business Structures for Mainland Company Formation
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
An LLC requires 2–50 shareholders. It offers limited liability for their share in capital. Since June 2021, 100% foreign ownership is allowed without a local sponsor.
Perfect For: Foreign investors, startups, and small-to-medium enterprises.
Partnership Company
A partnership company can be formed by two or more UAE nationals. They will be jointly liable based on their shares. This type is not available for foreign investors.
Perfect For: UAE nationals looking to jointly invest in local businesses.
Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship is owned by a single individual. Foreign owners require a UAE national as a local service agent to start a new company, but GCC and UAE citizens are exempt.
Perfect For: Professionals offering services like consultancy or freelance.
Public/Private Shareholding
Under this structure, the share capital is divided into tradable shares. Liability is limited to share capital. Founding members sign the memorandum and articles of association.
Perfect For: Large-scale projects, companies planning IPOs, or seeking big investments.
Branch Companies
This structure allows UAE, GCC, and foreign companies to open branches in the Abu Dhabi Mainland. These branches are an extension of the parent company and don’t require a different identity.
Perfect For: Companies looking to expand their business in Abu Dhabi.
Simplify the Process of Business Setup With IBG Consulting
Look for advisors with experience of Abu Dhabi’s legal structure.
Choose someone with experience in your industry.
Ensure transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
Strong links with regulatory bodies.
IBG Consultancy has it all, and much more. It offers customizable visa packages and personal assistance that ensures you get a smooth process and a head start in the market. Contact IBG Consultancy to get a quick quote and personalized guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a trade license essential for starting a venture?
A business license is crucial to legally conducting business across the United Arab Emirates. It ensures compliance with regulations, and its type depends on the specific activities you intend to undertake.
What are the benefits of forming a company in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi offers access to local markets, opportunities for business owners to bid on government projects, and flexibility in business structure, making it ideal for a wide range of ventures.
How does business setup in Dubai differ from Abu Dhabi?
Business establishment in Dubai often includes free zone options with specific benefits for international trade, while company setup in Abu Dhabi provides greater access to local markets and state-backed opportunities.
What role do business setup consultants play in the process?
Business setup experts guide entrepreneurs through the complexities of setting up your business, including acquiring approvals from the emirate’s Department of Economic Development, choosing the right business entity, and managing legal documentation.
What type of business operations require special permissions?
Certain sectors, like healthcare and manufacturing, require industry-specific permissions. This includes ensuring the business operations and legal structure comply with guidelines set by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development.
Can I fully own a company in the United Arab Emirates?
Yes, foreign investors can fully own a company in the UAE, depending on the particular business sector. This is a significant benefit for those interested in companies in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.
What are the differences between mainland and free zone companies?
Mainland company formation in Dubai or Abu Dhabi allows operations anywhere within the UAE, while free zone companies are restricted to specific locations. Mainland options are better for businesses aiming to serve local markets.
What approvals are required when setting up a company in the UAE?
Approvals are needed from the emirate’s Department of Economic Development to ensure compliance. Some industries also require additional permissions from relevant government bodies.
Why is Abu Dhabi a great place to start your business?
Abu Dhabi offers a thriving business environment, affordable costs, and incentives for various sectors. These benefits, combined with a streamlined process for business incorporation, make it a prime location for enterprises.
What steps are involved in setting up your business in the UAE?
The process includes choosing a business name, selecting a business structure, identifying your specific business operations, securing approvals, and leasing office space. The steps may vary based on the business operations and legal requirements.
WHY IBG
Lowest price promise
24/7 at your service guaranteed
Stay home instant license at your door
Additional best value in same price
0% Installment Plan
Client Testimonials
Office Contracts
Get In Touch
© 2024 ibgme.ae. All Rights Reserved.
© 2024 ibgme.ae. All Rights Reserved.