Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is one of the most prestigious free zones in the UAE. The jurisdiction was established in 2015 to support international business and financial institutions. This is an attractive choice for foreign entrepreneurs thanks to a zero tax rate, the use of English common law, and the possibility of 100% foreign ownership.
In this article, we will explore how to register a company in ADGM and what steps you need to take. Find out why this choice will be a profitable solution for your business.
Why Do Businesses Choose ADGM?
The ADGM free zone in Abu Dhabi, UAE, gives a strong potential for business development. Let’s consider the main advantages:
- Full ownership and freedom of management. The companies can be fully owned by foreigners, which spares the hassle of engaging local partners.
- Minimal financial barriers for the start. The authorized capital limit is set at USD 50,000, which makes company establishment accessible even for small and medium-sized businesses.
- Tax benefits and financial transparency. The right to freely withdraw your income from the UAE.
- Modern legal system. ADGM acts as an independent jurisdiction. It relies on English common law for civil and commercial purposes.
- Convenient registration. You can obtain a commercial license online.
- Flexibility of legal structures. A wide choice of legal forms (companies, trusts, and funds) to set up a business.
- Migration and expansion opportunities. The existing companies can easily transfer their business to ADGM or continue their operational activities in the free zone.
- Right of land/real estate ownership in Dubai. The only exception is ADGM-based trusts and funds that are subject to limitations.
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Company Types in ADGM
Entrepreneurs can choose one of several legal structures in the ADGM free economic zones to establish companies. They can select an option depending on the goals and sphere of activity.
Branch of a foreign company
Branches are the representative offices that perform the functions related to the activity of the parent organization. They can engage in financial activities (banking, investment, or insurance), non-financial sphere (work in the sectors of trade, consulting, and other spheres), or retail (sales of goods and services).
Investment Company
Investment companies are legal entities that specialize in asset and investment management to receive profits. Here are the types of investment companies you can register in the ADGM free zone:
- An Incorporated Cell Company (ICC) is a structure where each branch acts as a separate legal entity.
- A Protected Cell Company (PCC) is a structure where each investment is isolated in a separate portfolio.
- Close or Open-Ended Investment Companies are organizations that can attract funds from investors in different forms to ensure management and funding flexibility.
Funds
Funds are the structures established to manage assets in order to invest them and make a profit. They are not tax-exempt and are subject to all existing requirements related to transparency and reporting.
Private Limited Companies
Private companies are legal entities whose shares belong to a limited number of persons and are not publicly traded on stock markets. Here are the types of private companies that can be formed in the ADGM:
- Private Companies Limited by Guarantee. It is only suitable for non-commercial organizations and associations where members are only liable within their guarantee, and their personal assets are not at risk.
- Private Companies Limited by Shares. These companies limit the liability of their members by the latter’s contribution to the authorized capital. They are suitable for different kinds of business, including special projects and retail trade.
License Types in the ADGM, UAE
ADGM offers flexible conditions for the registration of companies with different types of licenses. The business you run in the jurisdiction can be adapted to the peculiarities of the local and international market.
| License type | Description |
| Non-financial license | It gives an opportunity to engage in various commercial activities not related to the financial sector, including consultancy, IT services, legal and accounting support, marketing, research, real estate management, social projects, construction, telecommunications, educational programs, and medical services. |
| Retail license | This is a permit for companies that work with end users. It gives the right to manufacture and sell goods (food, textile, and chemical products, furniture, and jewelry). The license permits activities in the field of repair and maintenance, express and postal services, car rental, as well as event and tourist programs. |
| Financial license | This is a license for companies that provide financial services, including the management of capital, investments, digital banking, assets, and funds. It is suitable for banks, investment companies, funds, and fintech companies, as well as work with securities and virtual assets. |
ADGM Company Registration Procedure
Company registration in the Abu Dhabi Global Market, UAE, is a clearly structured process that combines international standards with global requirements. It includes several stages you need to pass to obtain all the permits required or full-fledged activities.
- Providing information and choosing a structure. The client comes up with an appropriate company name and chooses a corporate structure (ADGM offers a wide range of company forms, including private companies, branches, and investment structures). If necessary, he also specifies the authorized capital and initial participation shares.
- Preparing documents. You will need to provide the following documents for company registration in ADGM:
- Passport copies for directors, shareholders, and officials valid for at least 6 months
- Copies of UAE resident visas and Emirates ID (if any)
- A FEZ office space rental agreement (a shared desk or a separate office)
- Articles of Association, corporate documents, and agreements
- Nominee director or shareholder appointment agreement
- Documents that confirm compliance with economic substance requirements and origin of funds
- Personal data of shareholders and directors (address of residence, contact information, passport-sized photos).
If the shareholder is a legal entity, it is additionally required to submit notarized copies of registration documents.
- Processing and registration. After the documents have been submitted, the ADGM will check the information. If everything is in order, a registration package is formed on the basis of the selected structure, including the founding documents and a one-year office rental agreement.
- Obtaining permits and cards. As soon as the registration is over, the company will obtain an immigration card within one working day and can submit documents for employee visas. The process of obtaining entry permits usually takes from 5 to 7 working days.
Cost of Registration
Company registration in a free economic zone is a solution for the business that requires minimum investments and gives maximum opportunities. The cost of services starts at USD 5,700 and depends on the selected activity and the type of legal entity.
| The cost includes | Description |
| Company registration | Preparation and submission of all the required documents to establish a company, including founding documents and registration of a legal entity. |
| Obtaining a license | Obtaining a commercial license that complies with the selected field of activity. |
| Registration agent’s services | Full support of the registration process, including interaction with ADGM authorities and consultancy services. |
Legal and Financial Aspects of Doing Business in the ADGM
The peculiarities of the legal system and tax advantages make the Abu Dhabi Global Market an attractive choice for international entrepreneurs and investors.
| Section | Description |
| Taxes | ADGM offers exemption from corporate and income tax rates. In addition, there is no capital repatriation or dividend tax. |
| Audit and reporting | Companies are required to submit annual financial reports and undergo an audit in compliance with international standards. |
| Authorized capital | The minimum authorized capital is set at USD 50,000 (the requirements depend on the company type and selected license). |
| Office | You can use a virtual office or rent a working space in ADGM, UAE. |
| Confidentiality | ADGM applies a high confidentiality standard to the data on company owners and beneficiaries. |
| Currency control | There are no limitations on operations with foreign currency. |
| Visas | As soon as the company has been successfully registered, you can obtain an immigration card and visas for employees and business owners. |
| License | You will need an appropriate license to engage in the selected activity. |
Additional Services for Your Business
We offer a broad range of extra services to simplify and improve the efficiency of your business management.
Opening Bank Accounts
We will help you select a reliable bank in the UAE and support the submission of documents. Thanks to our cooperation with the largest financial institutions in the region, opening an account becomes quick and transparent.
Obtaining Resident Visas
A UAE resident visa gives business owners, employees, and their family members the right to live, work, and move freely within the country. We can help you obtain immigration cards, submit applications, and interact with relevant authorities to ensure quick issue resolution.
Accounting Support
We can handle your accounting and preparation of financial reports in accordance with the requirements set by UAE’s laws. We offer tax consulting, payroll, auditing, and report submission services to regulators.
Why Cooperate with Us?
Company registration in the Abu Dhabi Global Market free economic zone opens up new opportunities for business and gives access to international markets. Contact us to obtain professional assistance at each stage of registration and make a confident step toward success.
