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ADGM Company Formation & Registration
Overview
ADGM Business Setup
ADGM, or Abu Dhabi Global Market, is a leading free zone located on Al Maryah Island, the financial district of Abu Dhabi, UAE. This strategic location has made ADGM a preferred destination for businesses looking to establish themselves in the region. With over 2,000 active businesses, ADGM has proven its ability to attract both local and international companies.
ADGM is widely recognized for its robust regulatory framework that promotes stability, transparency, and investor confidence. Though initially tailored for the financial services sector, ADGM is a versatile ecosystem catering to various industries, including retail, Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), and non-financial businesses.
This flexibility makes it a prime location for ADGM company formation, as it provides the infrastructure and legal backing necessary for smooth business operations.
License cost in ADGM varies based on the nature of the business and the type of license required. The cost structure for ADGM company formation is competitive, with several options designed to cater to the needs of different industries. The license fees in ADGM typically cover all essential business activities, from banking and investment management to insurance and fintech.
Advantages of
ADGM Business Setup Advantages
Full Foreign Ownership
International businesses do not require a local Emirati sponsor to be a partner to operate, maintaining 100% ownership. Unless operating in certain strategic industries.
Tax Benefits
Exemption from corporate tax - tax holiday of 50 years., personal income tax and import and export customs duties.
Independent Regulatory Authority
Operating under the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) that ensures compliance with international standards whilst maintaining customized industry laws.
Modern Infrastructure
ADGM offers state-of-the-art office spaces with excellent infrastructure, meeting facilities, and support services.
Double Taxation Treaties
The UAE has taxation agreements with over 135 countries that prevent businesses from paying tax on the same income twice.
Innovation and Fintech Hub
It offers sandbox programs and innovation licenses to startups and tech companies, including testing their products and services in a controlled environment.
Free Zones Categories in the UAE
Meydan Free Zone
Located in Nad Al Sheba provides flexible office solutions and a range of business activities across various sectors, including finance, media, trading, and tourism.
More info
Sharjah Publishing City (SPC)
Located in Al Zahia, Sharjah, focuses on publishing, e-commerce, and media, offering specialized infrastructure for freelancers and companies in creative industries. More info
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
Located on Al Maryah Island is a premier financial center in Abu Dhabi, known for its world-class regulatory framework and support for the financial services sector.
More info
Dubai Multi Commodities Center
Located in Jumeirah Lakes Towers is one of the most successful free zones in the UAE, attracting companies in the trade and commodity sectors, particularly those dealing in precious metals like gold and diamonds.
More info
Jebel Ali Free Zone
Situated near Jebel Ali Port, is one of the oldest and largest free zones in the UAE, supporting logistics, manufacturing, and large-scale trading operations.
More info
ADGM Business Setup Process
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Get Your Free ConsultationADGM Company Formation Cost
The cost of ADGM company formation depends on the type of license required. The starting price for all licenses is AED 73,460 ($20,000). However, the license cost in ADGM can vary depending on the nature of your business and the specific requirements of the license you apply for.
In addition to the license fees, other potential costs include office space, which can vary significantly based on the location and size of the premises within ADGM. If local sponsorship is required, sponsor fees would be an additional expense, though ADGM company formation typically allows 100% foreign ownership, reducing this cost for many international businesses.
Moreover, visa and permit costs are additional factors that can influence the overall cost of setting up a business in ADGM.
Note the price is an estimate and will vary in reality. For an accurate cost breakdown, get in touch with our consultants who can guide you through ADGM company formation and provide an accurate financial estimate tailored to your business needs.
By working with a consultant, you can ensure that all fees are accounted for, making your license cost in ADGM transparent and manageable.
*Note the price is an estimate and will vary in reality. For an accurate cost breakdown, get in touch with our consultants.
AAs of the latest update, the cost for an ADGM commercial license is set to increase starting in 2025. The fee for new financial licenses will rise from USD 15,000 to USD 20,000, while the renewal fee will increase from USD 13,000 to USD 15,000. It’s important to check the ADGM official website or consult with an advisor for the most current information and fee structure.
AIn ADGM, a private company must have at least one director. For a public company, the requirement is a minimum of two directors. Directors can be individuals or corporate bodies.
AYes, ADGM companies can own property in Dubai. Recent developments, including a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), enable ADGM entities to use their structures to acquire and manage real estate in Dubai. This facilitates broader investment opportunities and business structuring.
AWhen choosing a name for your ADGM company, it must not be identical or too similar to any existing registered names within ADGM. Additionally, the name must not be offensive or include any restricted or protected terms as defined by ADGM naming regulations.
AADGM Exempt Funds are investment vehicles subject to lighter regulatory requirements, as they are only open to accredited investors. These funds have a minimum subscription of USD 50,000 and can only be accessed by Professional Clients. This classification helps streamline investment processes for qualified investors.
ANo, the UAE Federal Labour Law does not apply to companies registered in ADGM. Instead, ADGM has its own set of employment regulations that govern the relationship between ADGM entities and their employees, providing a distinct regulatory framework from the federal law.
