Abu Dhabi Global Market
Build in ADGM
International legal standards for holding companies, family offices, funds, fintech and professional services.
ADGM operates under its own English common law legal system, with independent courts, regulators and a company registry. TFZ helps you select the right ADGM licence and manages the application process.
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ADGM combines international legal standards, flexible entity structures and a strong ecosystem for financial and professional businesses.
English common law
Direct application of English common law, giving international investors legal certainty.
Independent courts
Independent ADGM Courts and an arbitration centre.
Foreign ownership
100% foreign ownership and full repatriation of capital and profits.
Tax environment
0% corporate tax on qualifying income for Qualifying Free Zone Persons; no personal income tax.
Flexible entities
Wide choice of entities including companies, SPVs, foundations, partnerships, funds and branches.
Online registration
Fast online registration through the ADGM Registration Authority portal.
Double tax treaties
Access to over 130 UAE double tax treaties.
Flexible office options
Flexible office options, including desk spaces for SPVs and start-ups.
Specialist ecosystem
Strong ecosystem for financial services, fintech (RegLab), asset management and family offices.
Types of ADGM Licences and Entities
Different ADGM structures serve different business and ownership requirements.
| Category | Best For | Key Points |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Financial (Category A / B / C) | Consultancy, corporate services, holding, professional services | Most common; requires a physical office or registered agent |
| Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) | Holding assets, shares, property, IP, JV structures | No office needed, low cost, must have a UAE nexus |
| Tech Start-up Licence | Early-stage technology companies | Reduced fees, access to Hub71 ecosystem |
| Financial Services (FSRA regulated) | Asset managers, advisors, brokers, fintech, digital assets | Requires FSRA authorisation, capital and compliance officers |
| ADGM Foundation | Family wealth, succession, philanthropy | Separate legal personality, no shareholders |
| Branch of a Foreign Company | Extending an existing business | Parent remains liable |
| Retail / F&B | Shops and restaurants on Al Maryah Island | Requires physical premises |
Step-by-Step ADGM Registration Process
Choose the structure
Consultation with TFZ to select the correct licence category and entity type.
Reserve the name
Reserve the company name on the ADGM online portal.
Secure the address
Secure office space or appoint TFZ as your registered agent for SPVs and eligible entities.
Prepare documents
Prepare the Articles of Association and business plan. ADGM model articles can be used.
Submit the application
Submit the application with KYC documents for shareholders, directors and UBOs.
Receive approval
ADGM Registration Authority reviews and issues the Commercial Licence and Certificate of Incorporation.
Establishment and visas
Register for Establishment Card and visas if required.
Open the bank account
Open a corporate bank account.
Documents Required
The application requires identification, ownership, business and address documentation depending on the chosen structure.
Timeline for ADGM Company Formation
Timing varies significantly depending on the entity and regulatory requirements.
| Entity Type | Approximate Time |
|---|---|
| SPV | 1 to 2 weeks |
| Non-financial company (consultancy, holding) | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Tech Start-up licence | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Foundation | 2 to 3 weeks |
| Financial services (FSRA) | 3 to 9 months |
| Bank account opening | 2 to 6 weeks |
| Visa (per person) | 2 to 3 weeks |
Cost of Setting Up in ADGM
Indicative costs in US Dollars (USD), as ADGM fees are quoted in USD.
| Cost Item | Indicative Amount (USD) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| SPV registration | 1,900 | One-time |
| SPV annual renewal | 1,200 | Annual |
| Non-financial company registration (Category A) | 3,000 to 10,000 | One-time |
| Non-financial company licence renewal | 3,000 to 10,000 | Annual |
| Tech Start-up licence | 700 to 1,000 (first year) | Annual |
| Foundation registration | 1,900 | One-time |
| Data protection registration | 300 | Annual |
| Office / desk space | 5,000 to 25,000+ | Annual |
| Registered agent (for SPV) | Quoted on request | Annual |
| Establishment card and visa per person | 1,500 to 2,500 | Every 2 years |
| TFZ professional fees | Quoted on request | One-time |
Financial services licences involve FSRA application fees, minimum capital and ongoing supervision fees that vary widely by activity. TFZ provides a tailored quote for regulated businesses.
Compliance Requirements in ADGM
ADGM companies remain subject to ongoing filing, tax, data protection and regulatory obligations.
| Compliance Area | What It Means | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Licence renewal | Renew commercial licence and data protection registration | Annual |
| Annual accounts | File accounts with the Registration Authority; audit required for larger companies and all financial firms | Annual, within 9 months of year end (SPVs and small companies may file simplified accounts) |
| Annual return / confirmation statement | Confirm company details, directors and shareholders | Annual |
| Corporate tax | Register with FTA, file a return, maintain Qualifying Free Zone Person status if claiming 0% | Annual |
| VAT | Register if taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 | Quarterly |
| Economic Substance Regulations | Notification and report for relevant activities | Annual |
| UBO register | Maintain and file beneficial ownership information | On change |
| Data Protection Regulations 2021 | Register, appoint DPO where required, comply with data rules | Annual |
| Employment Regulations | ADGM employment contracts, end of service, working hours | Ongoing |
| AML / CFT | Enhanced obligations for DNFBPs and regulated firms | Ongoing |
How TFZ Helps With ADGM Company Formation
TFZ supports the full journey from entity selection and application through banking, visas and ongoing compliance.
Selection of the right entity: SPV, operating company, foundation or regulated firm.
Registered agent services for ADGM SPVs and foundations.
Business plan and Articles of Association drafting.
Office and desk space solutions on Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands.
FSRA authorisation support for financial services applicants.
Bank account introductions, visas and ongoing compliance including accounts, annual return, corporate tax, ESR and data protection.
Everything You Need to Know About ADGM
Answers to common questions about ADGM entities, offices, mainland activity, corporate tax and residence visas.
Disclaimer: Fees, timelines and rules quoted on this page are indicative, change from time to time and depend on the authority, licence type and activity chosen. TFZ confirms exact figures in writing before any engagement begins.
Talk to TFZ Today
Get a free consultation on ADGM company formation.