Set Up Your Company with
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
As a leading financial hub, ADGM offers a wide range of services, including banking, asset management, capital markets, and financial technology (FinTech). With its strategic location, business-friendly environment, and commitment to innovation, ADGM serves as a gateway for businesses to access opportunities in the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. Joining ADGM provides businesses with access to a vibrant ecosystem of financial institutions, professional services firms, and multinational corporations, enabling them to thrive and grow in the global marketplace.
Advantages of Setting Up Your Business in the ADGM
With a diverse and dynamic market, setting up a business in ADGM can provide local and foreign entrepreneurs various benefits and incentives. Here are some of the following:
Ease of Doing Business
- 100% foreign company ownership
- No restrictions on capital repatriation
- No currency restrictions
- No restriction on foreign employees
Regulatory
- ADGM operates based on English common law, recognized globally, to ensure impartiality and transparency within the jurisdiction.
- Legal framework supports cross-border activities.
Tax Benefits
- No personal income tax
- 9% corporate income tax (where applicable)
Strategic Location
- ADGM is centrally located in the Middle East, giving easy access for trading business in Asia, Africa, and Europe.
- Proximity to airports such as the Dubai International Airport.
Business Ecosystem
- Home to over 100 startups and accelerators, including Hub71, and startAD
- Dynamic workforce
- World-class facilities and infrastructures
Visa Packages
ADGM offers flexible visa packages to businesses and professionals interested in establishing a presence in the UAE. These give companies and individuals the opportunity to obtain a business license, residency visa and other necessary permits.
Legal Framework of ADGM
ADGM has a separate legal framework from the UAE and is overseen by three independent authorities. These authorities are responsible to ensure that businesses within Abu Dhabi operate in line with international practices that are recognized by major financial centers worldwide.
Legal Framework
Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA)
Responsible for the regulation and supervision of financial services within and from the ADGM.
Registration Authority
Responsible for the registration of companies, partnerships and other business structures incorporated in the ADGM.
Abu Dhabi Global Market Courts
Responsible for the administration of justice in the ADGM.
Types of Licenses Offered in ADGM
Financial Business
Financial businesses established in ADGM are companies that provide financial services and products to individuals, businesses, and other organizations.
Activities under financial business:
- Investment Banks
- Asset Management and Funds
- FinTech
- Capital Markets
- Investment Advisory and Wealth Management
- Insurance Companies
- Payment and Clearing Services
- Credit Rating Agencies
- Auditing and Accounting Firms
- Brokerage
Non-Financial Business
Non-financial business under the ADGM jurisdiction refers to any business activity that does not involve the exchange of money or financial instruments.
Activities under non-financial business:
- Technology and Innovation Companies
- Business Consulting Firms
- Retail and Consumer Goods Businesses
- Real Estate and Property Development Companies
- Healthcare and Medical Companies
- Education and Training Providers
- Hospitality and Tourism Businesses
- Manufacturing and Industrial Businesses