ADGM, on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, is an international financial centre operating under an independent English common-law framework. It is the preferred base for financial services, fund managers, family offices, fintech and holding companies that want a globally recognised, well-regulated jurisdiction.
United Arab EmiratesFree zone
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
An international financial centre governed by English common law.
Ownership100% foreign
Best forFinance, funds, holding, fintech
Legal frameworkEnglish common law
LocationAbu Dhabi (Al Maryah Island)
In brief
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) at a glance
What it takes
What you provide, and what we handle.
What you will need
- Passport copies for every shareholder and director
- A clear list of intended business activities
- Proof of address, and a short business plan for some zones
- A UAE address — a flexi-desk, or a physical office for higher visa counts
How StartEase helps
- Advising on the right free zone for your activity and budget
- Preparing and filing the licence application and documents
- Coordinating your establishment card, visas and Emirates ID
- Corporate Tax and VAT registration and ongoing filing
Step by step
How setup works in United Arab Emirates.
The path is broadly the same across United Arab Emirates — Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) follows this route.
- 01
Zone & activities
Confirm the free zone and the exact business activities on your licence — this drives cost, visa quota and whether you can serve the mainland or only export and operate internationally.
- 02
Name & application
Reserve your company name, submit shareholder and passport documents and file the licence application with the free-zone authority.
- 03
Licence & card
Receive your trade licence, incorporation certificate and establishment card, and set up the flexi-desk or office your activity requires.
- 04
Visas & Emirates ID
Apply for investor and employee residence visas and Emirates IDs under your visa quota, with medical and biometrics steps in the UAE.
- 05
Bank & tax
Open a corporate bank account, then register for Corporate Tax and, if turnover requires it, VAT.
Free-zone costs vary widely — a lean consultancy licence on a flexi-desk sits at the affordable end, while premium zones, extra visas and physical offices raise the total. We give you an itemised, all-in estimate before you commit.
A considered first step.
Request a consultationPlanning Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)? Let’s scope it.
Share your business activity and where you’re starting from.
We’ll help define what comes next.
General information, not legal or tax advice. Service scope and provider responsibilities are agreed before engagement. Government decisions, banking approvals and completion dates are not guaranteed.