ADGM Company Formation - set up conditions and benefits


Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE and the largest of the seven emirates, contributing two thirds of the approximate USD 400 billion of the UAE economy. 

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is an international financial centre and free zone located on Al Maryah Island in the United Arab Emirates's capital, Abu Dhabi. One of the major benefits of setting up in ADGM is its enviable location in the heart of Abu Dhabi.

By focusing on regular and close engagement with all stakeholders, ADGM is determined to promote the soundness of the financial institutions, facilitate innovation and entrepreneurship, encourage efficient risk management and garner investors’ confidence through fair-dealings.

If you were considering to set up a business in ADGM, then you should know that ADGM is the perfect place for any businessman to set up his company in.

Setting up your business within ADGM will offer your organisation an opportunity to grow and scale in a supportive business environment with the advantage of operating in a tax-friendly environment.

Company formation in Abu Dhabi Global Market

In collaboration with other International Financial Centres, global institutions and regulators, Abu Dhabi Global Market develops and supports member institutions with the regulatory framework, legal jurisdiction and attractive business environment they need for sustainable business growth.

The steps required to start your company in Abu Dhabi Global Market will largely depend on the nature of your business and your chosen business setup. In most cases, however, as well as the documentation listed above, you’ll also be required to provide:

  • Completed application form
  • Passport copy of the proposed owner or owners
  • Two colored passport size photos with a white background
  • Proof of share capital, as required

Setting up a business in ADGM

The investors can set up mainly two types of businesses in ADGM:

The Financial Business consists of Banking Businesses, Wealth & Asset management Businesses, and Capital Markets.

1. Financial Business

The Financial Business consists of Banking Businesses, Wealth & Asset management Businesses, and Capital Markets.

2. Non-Financial Business

The Non-financial Businesses at the ADGM comprise the legal structure such as Professional Services, Corporate, Family Business, Associations, Special Purpose Vehicles (SPV), and Tech Startups.

To get a licence from ADGM to commence operations, an applicant must first identify the category of business activities and the type of company to be formed. ADGM establishments may be limited by shares or by guarantee, or they may be unlimited. Branches of a foreign company may also register.

Partnerships may also establish themselves in the ADGM free zone. The Limited Liability Partnerships Regulations 2015 provide for the establishment and operation of limited liability partnerships as a corporate structure.

Looking to start business in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Free Zone?

We will be pleased to assist you in the process of business setup in ADGM. From assessing your requirements – right up to getting your business started, we will be there for you during the entire process.

UAE Freezones offers a bespoke advisory service that gives clear direction and guidance to savvy investors who want to set up their operations in the Emirates, whether onshore or offshore.

We will be pleased to help you in setting up business in ADGM!

We are always open for your enquiries, comments and suggestions that may help us serve you in a better way. Contact us!

Looking to start business in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Free Zone?

  • Advice and consultancy - what corporate structure best suits your current and future plans;
  • Draft documents, assemble files and manage submissions, translations and legalisations;
  • Visa and work permit processing with Emirates ID;
  • Partnership options for Professional, Branch Office and UAE Offshore Company;
  • Seek approvals from Economic Department, Ministries, Department of Planning and Civil Defence;
  • Set up Company Bank Accounts - consultancy and advising procedure.