Set Up Your Company in

Abu Dhabi Mainland

An Abu Dhabi Mainland license allows businesses to operate freely within Abu Dhabi and across the UAE without any geographic limitations. Issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), this license provides companies with the flexibility to engage in a wide range of commercial activities, access local markets directly, and participate in government contracts and public tenders.

Abu Dhabi Mainland businesses benefit from an absence of currency restrictions and the ability to secure an unlimited number of visas, facilitating the recruitment of both local and expatriate staff. With its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and favorable business environment, obtaining a Mainland license in Abu Dhabi offers significant advantages for companies aiming to establish a strong presence in the UAE’s capital and beyond.

Advantages of Setting Up Your Business in Abu Dhabi

Setting up a business in Abu Dhabi not only positions companies to benefit from the city’s economic strengths and strategic advantages but also provides a solid foundation for growth and success in the wider Middle East region.

Low Company Setup Cost

The ease of doing business in Abu Dhabi is one of the factors that attracts entrepreneurs and investors. Companies under the Abu Dhabi Mainland License are not required to have any minimum share capital. They are also exempted from an annual audit. However, there are exceptions to this in some jurisdictions.

Wider Scope of Business

Having an Abu Dhabi Mainland License lets you conduct business activities anywhere in the UAE. This allows a broader reach of consumers and customers across the region. Entering a wider market also lets you maximize your company’s increase in profit and revenue.

Long Term License Validity

Unlike other business locations, Abu Dhabi offers a 2-year validity in commercial licenses. This would minimise costs and effort in annually renewing your licenses.

Affordable Office Spaces

One of the most crucial points of starting a business is selecting your office space. In Abu Dhabi, you can choose to rent or lease a space for a very affordable price.

Tourism Sector Development

Abu Dhabi is known to be one of the most well-known global tourist destinations. It serves as a host for the largest commercial and sporting events which contribute to its increasing tourism sector yearly.

Ability to Work with Government Bodies

Companies with Abu Dhabi Mainland licenses are allowed to work with government contracts.  This gives your company the opportunity to bid for different Government funded projects for a higher revenue.

Repatriation of Capital and Profits

Mainland companies in Abu Dhabi have the advantage of repatriating 100% of the profits and capital made by the business without any restrictions. Having an Abu Dhabi Mainland license also entitles you to 100% ownership and exempts you from income taxes. Value Added Tax (VAT) is the only tax imposed on enterprises at a rate of 5%.

Types of Licenses Offered in Abu Dhabi Mainland

With Abu Dhabi becoming one of the hottest spots for business and tourism, it is essential to learn what type of business activities you are going to venture. Creative Zone will help you in choosing the best-suited type of activities for your company.

Types of Business Structures in Abu Dhabi Mainland

The choice of structure depends on factors such as the type of business activity, the level of liability the owners are willing to assume, ownership preferences, and the intended scale of operations. Consult I Biz Consultants so we can help you in selecting the appropriate business structure is crucial for compliance and aligning with business goals in Abu Dhabi’s thriving economic environment.

Steps for Setting Up Your Company in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Setting up a company in Abu Dhabi Mainland involves a series of steps designed to ensure compliance with local regulations and facilitate a smooth start to your business operations. Come to I Biz and leave all the hassle to us.
  • Determine the Nature of Business

    The first and one of the most critical steps in setting up business in Abu Dhabi Mainland is choosing the right trade license and company structure. Since there are requirements for each type, it is better to know the business activity and legal structure of your company beforehand. The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED) is the one responsible for issuing licenses for business registrations in Abu Dhabi.

  • Register Trade Name

    Choose the right and appropriate name for your company. There are certain guidelines that you have to follow in choosing a company name. Creative Zone can provide you a comprehensive guide for choosing your trade name.

  • Get Approvals from Authorising Authorities

    Once you have selected your business activity, company structure, and trade name, you can now seek preliminary approvals from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development.

    Some of the documents needed for getting a preliminary approval are:

    · Approved trade name

    · For foreign investors: Approval from the Department of Naturalization and Residence, along with valid passport copies

    · Copy of Emirates ID (if applicable)

    · No objection certificate

    Our team at Creative Zone can assist you in meeting all these requirements for a faster and hassle-free process.

  • Licensing Approvals

    Upon submission of all documents, payment must be made. After this, you can now collect your trade license.