Calen Voss 
07.07.2025 Why Choose Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone for Business Setup?
ADGM is one of the most prestigious and fastest-growing free economic zones in the UAE, located in the heart of the capital, on Al Maryah Island. It offers the most transparent and internationally recognised legal environment based on English common law, which is particularly attractive to foreign investors. ADGM offers a fast registration process, full foreign ownership of the company, and access to local and international financial markets. The zone is focused on supporting innovation, financial and technology start-ups, and provides a high level of regulation and rights protection. It is an optimal choice for those who plan international development and are looking for a reliable business environment.
About Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Free Zone
Abu Dhabi Global Market is an international financial centre and free economic zone established in 2013 on Al Maryah Island, which is the new business district of the UAE capital. ADGM is regulated by independent bodies the Financial Services Regulatory Authority, the Registration Authority, and an independent court based on English common law. This structure ensures a high level of trust and legal stability.
ADGM offers a favourable environment for companies in finance, technology, legal services and professional advice. The zone actively supports start-ups and innovative projects, providing access to global markets, investments and financial instruments.
Business Activities Allowed in Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone
The ADGM has three categories of licences: financial, non-financial and retail.
- Financial licences include: investment and private banking, asset and fund management, brokerage, capital investment, trading venue infrastructure, virtual assets and FinTech, and special purpose vehicles (SPVs) - for example, for asset retention or securities issues.
- The non-financial licence covers a wide range: consultancy (management, legal, accounting), IT and computer programming, engineering and scientific research, construction, transport, education, security, real estate, rental, media, entertainment, etc.
- Retail licence is intended for trade and services: manufacturing (textiles, furniture, food, etc.), wholesale/retail, transport repair, logistics, tourism, tourism, photo, rent, as well as catering and leisure.
Step-by-Step Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone Company Formation and Registration
The process of registering a company with Abu Dhabi Global Market involves several steps: selecting a name and legal structure, submitting an application to the ADGM Registration Office, submitting statutory documents, undergoing a compliance check (KYC/AML), paying the registration fee and obtaining a licence to operate. The entire process can be completed remotely through the ADGM’s digital registration platform.
Required Documents and Timeline
The following package of documents is required to register a company with Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM):
- Company Registration Application;
- ID or passports copies of all directors and shareholders;
- Proof of residential address of shareholders and directors (utility bills);
- Resolution appointing the directors;
- Articles of Association (Memorandum and Articles of Association);
- Business Plan (for some activities);
- Additional permits or licences if the activity is subject to financial regulation.
The timeframe for ADGM Free Zone business registration depends on the complexity of the structure. For standard non-financial companies, the process usually takes between 5 and 10 working days. For financial organisations, the timeframe can increase to 4-6 weeks due to the need to undergo regulatory inspections.
It is important to note that the ADGM Free Zone provides a convenient online platform for filing applications and tracking registration status, which significantly speeds up the process.
Remote Registration Option
The ADGM Free Zone remote registration option allows you to start a company completely remotely, following today's digital standards:
- Online process
- Designate the type of company (Incorporated Cell Company, Limited Liability Company, branch) and type of business.
- Check and reserve the name through the ADGM Online Registry.
- Upload all documents into the system: passports of directors/founders, proof of address, articles of association, business plan, etc..
- Documents and KYC/AML
- Addresses and passports must be up to date (no older than 3 months).
- For financial licences, an In Principle Approval from FSRA will additionally be required.
- Support from RA
- ADGM Registration Authority provides assistance with online submission, tracking applications, and dealing with office rentals.
- Timeline and Outcome
- With a complete set of documents, a non-financial company can be registered within 5-10 working days (up to 10).
- Financial licences typically take between 3 to 6 months, depending on the complexity and FSRA’s regulatory review process.
Benefits
- Completely remote process without the need for physical presence.
- Transparent timelines and application status via an online platform.
- Support from RA at every stage, including KYC, office and visa support.
Thus, remote registration with ADGM is a convenient, clear and modern way to establish a business in the UAE with an international legal framework.
Types of Licenses and Costs in Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone
Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone provides different types of licences suitable for both financial and non-financial companies. The choice of licence depends on the nature of the business, company structure and planned markets. ADGM offers flexible terms and conditions, including flexi-desk packages, different visa quotas and remote registration options. It is important to consider not only the base cost of the licence, but also the associated costs such as workplace rental, visa processing, e-Channel registration and annual regulatory fees. Below are the main types of licences and approximate costs that will help to assess the financial side of opening a company in ADGM.
Visa Packages and Pricing Breakdown
There are three main types of licences available for set up in Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone: financial, non-financial, and retail. The cost and conditions depend on the chosen activity and the visa requirements of the company.
The financial licence is suitable for banks, investment funds, asset managers, and fintech companies. The basic cost starts from US$16,500-17,000 per year. These licences require approval from the Financial Services Regulator (FSRA) and involve a longer approval process.
The non-financial licence is for consulting, legal, IT, and professional services firms. The annual cost starts at US$5,000. It is the most popular option for startups and international consultants.
The retail licence is suitable for retail and service businesses. The cost is from US$ 2,000 per year.
Packages with flexi-desk and visa quotas are available for companies. For example, a basic flexi-desk package with three visas will cost approximately US10,000-13,000 per year. Additional visas are charged separately (~US$1,200 per visa per year), e-Channel system fees, and annual data protection fees (~US$300) must also be considered.
Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone Company Formation: Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Choose This Free Zone?
Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone is ideal for international companies, financial organisations, investment funds, FinTech projects, and consultants looking for a reliable, regulated jurisdiction with an English legal system. ADGM is particularly favourable for those planning to work with foreign clients, raise investments, structure assets through SPVs, or use international financial instruments. Companies targeting IPOs, private equity, fund management, or cryptocurrency services will find a favourable environment in Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone.
For whom is ADGM not suitable? SMEs with limited budgets that are only focused on the local Abu Dhabi market or planning to trade without a serious corporate structure should consider more affordable zones such as Abu Dhabi Mainland, Sharjah Free Zone, or Ajman Free Zone. Also, for typical e-commerce, small retail companies or low-cost startups, the cost of registration and annual fees in ADGM may be unreasonably high. In such cases, it is better to opt for free zones with minimal requirements and simplified procedures that provide cheaper flexi-desk packages and basic visa quotas.
Conclusion
Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone is a prestigious and modern jurisdiction that provides internationally recognised legal standards, a robust regulatory environment, and full foreign ownership. This financial centre is particularly attractive to companies operating in the investment, banking, FinTech, and legal sectors, as well as those planning complex international structures using SPVs, funds and crypto-assets. ADGM offers a fast and transparent registration process, affordable remote filing, and quality support from the Registration Service.
Nevertheless, it is important to understand that registering a company with ADGM requires serious investment: the cost of licences, flexi-desk rental, visa quotas, and additional annual fees (for e-Channel and data protection) form a rather high entry threshold. For smaller companies, startups with limited budgets, or entrepreneurs operating in a localised market, ADGM can be a redundant and financially unreasonable choice.
As a result, Abu Dhabi Global Market is the optimal zone for ambitious, large-scale, and financially sustainable projects with an international focus. The choice of this zone should be strategically justified: if properly planned, it offers powerful opportunities for growth and global presence. For professional assistance with company registration in ADGM, contact our specialists, who will guide you through each step of the process.
Can I register a company in Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone without visiting the UAE?
Yes, company registration in ADGM can be completed remotely. The entire process, including name reservation, document submission, and licensing, is available through the ADGM online portal. Physical presence is not required for most business types, particularly non-financial companies and SPVs. However, financial institutions may need additional verification. Remote registration significantly reduces setup time and simplifies international company formation.
Does Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone offer installment payment options?
No, ADGM generally does not offer installment payment plans. All government fees, including the license fee, flexi-desk rental, data protection charges, and visa costs, must typically be paid in full upon application or renewal. Some authorized service providers may offer internal payment schedules for their consulting or corporate services, but this is separate from ADGM’s official fee structure.
Can I use an Abu Dhabi Global Market license for trading outside the UAE?
Yes, ADGM companies can freely conduct international business activities without restriction. The ADGM license is ideal for cross-border operations, consulting, investment, and asset management outside the UAE. However, for mainland trading within Abu Dhabi or across the UAE’s domestic market, a dual licensing agreement with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) is required.
What activities require pre-approval in the Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone?
Pre-approval is mandatory for regulated financial activities, including banking, insurance, investment management, crypto asset operations, and other activities supervised by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). Additionally, certain legal, auditing, and specialized consultancy services may require prior clearance. Non-regulated activities, such as general trading or IT services, usually do not need pre-approval.
How does Abu Dhabi Global Market compare to other zones like DMCC or IFZA?
