Home/ UAE Free Zones/ Abu Dhabi/ Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)

Abu Dhabi Global Market
(ADGM)

ADGM company set up gives businesses access to Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the UAE’s leading international financial free zone operating under an independent English common law framework. Established in 2013 on Al Maryah Island, ADGM is regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) and is home to global financial institutions, investment firms, and family offices. Whether you are considering ADGM company formation, ADGM registration, or evaluating ADGM company set up cost, the jurisdiction offers an internationally recognised legal environment for SPVs, foundations, fintech companies, and regulated virtual asset businesses.

Zone at a Glance
RegulatorADGM Registration Authority / FSRA
LocationAl Maryah & Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
Launched2013
Designated ZoneNo (Subject to standard VAT)
Entry-Level CostFrom approx. AED 15,000 / year
Legal FrameworkIndependent English Common Law
Physical OfficeGenerally required (exceptions for SPVs)
FSRA Review TimeTypically 4 to 12 weeks
ADGM REGISTERED CORPORATE SERVICE PROVIDER
ADGM Certificate of Partnership

IncHub Corporate Services Providers LLC is a duly licensed business operating in the United Arab Emirates, authorised to provide corporate and business setup consultancy services. Our specialists assist investors with ADGM business setup while ensuring every business complies with the applicable regulatory requirements. The trade licence serves as official proof of the company’s legal registration and authorised business activities, demonstrating that IncHub operates as a licensed corporate service provider in the UAE.

Licence No.
1017774
Issue Date
28/12/2021
Valid Through
27/12/2026
Zone Overview

ADGM: Abu Dhabi’s International Financial Centre

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is an internationally recognised financial free zone established in 2013 on Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi. Operating under an independent English common law framework with its own courts and regulatory system, ADGM offers a globally trusted legal environment that is separate from the UAE’s civil law system. This unique framework makes ADGM company set up an attractive option for international investors, financial institutions, and entrepreneurs seeking regulatory certainty.

Financial services within ADGM are regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), which follows internationally recognised standards. The strategic location of Abu Dhabi Global Market alongside institutions such as ADIA, Mubadala, and the Abu Dhabi Department of Finance makes it a preferred destination for investment firms, asset managers, fintech companies, and global businesses considering ADGM business setup or company formation in ADGM.

ADGM company formation is particularly popular for holding companies, Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), Foundations, fintech businesses, and regulated financial services. The ADGM free zone has also established itself as one of the UAE’s leading jurisdictions for virtual assets and digital asset businesses through its comprehensive regulatory framework. Businesses planning ADGM registration can choose from multiple legal structures depending on their commercial objectives, while the ADGM company set up cost varies according to the selected licence, office requirements, and business activity.

Ideal Profiles

Businesses ADGM Is Built For

ADGM is a specialised financial jurisdiction designed for businesses that require international credibility, a common law legal framework, and sophisticated corporate structuring. It is one of the preferred destinations for ADGM company formation and ADGM business setup in the UAE.

Regulated Financial Institutions

Asset managers, banks, investment firms, and fintech companies seeking FSRA-regulated licences through ADGM company set up and company formation in ADGM.

Holding Companies & SPVs

Businesses establishing holding companies or Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) through ADGM registration to protect assets, intellectual property, and investments.

Family Offices & Wealth Preservation

Family offices and high-net-worth individuals using Abu Dhabi Global Market Foundations for succession planning, wealth protection, and long-term asset management.

Fintech & Regtech Startups

Fintech and regtech startups looking for ADGM business setup opportunities and access to the RegLab regulatory sandbox before obtaining full regulatory authorisation.

Regional Headquarters

Regional headquarters, consulting firms, and multinational businesses seeking an ADGM company set up within a globally recognised common law jurisdiction close to Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth ecosystem.

Not Suitable For

ADGM free zone is generally not the best choice for traditional trading, retail, logistics, or low-cost commercial activities. Businesses focused on these sectors may find Abu Dhabi mainland or other commercial free zones more suitable from both an operational and ADGM company set up cost perspective.

Sector Profile

The Sectors ADGM Specialises In

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is widely recognised among sovereign wealth fund advisers, private equity managers, hedge funds, and multi-generational family offices as the only English common law jurisdiction on Abu Dhabi’s Al Maryah Island. Its tenant base is heavily concentrated in FSRA-regulated financial services, including asset managers, fund administrators, investment banks, private wealth managers, and the legal and accounting firms that support them. Mubadala, ADIA, and Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth community are located nearby.

The Core Commercial Case

The core problem ADGM solves is the jurisdiction trust issue for international financial institutions. Global investors, institutional counterparties, and family offices from Europe, the US, and Asia often require English common law enforcement, internationally recognised regulatory oversight, and a legal framework for wealth structures that is enforceable across jurisdictions. ADGM’s courts, FSRA regulations, and Foundations Regulations 2017 provide all three in Abu Dhabi, alongside proximity to the capital’s sovereign wealth decision-makers.

Designated Zone for VAT Purposes

No. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is not classified as a Designated Zone under UAE VAT law (Cabinet Decision No. 59). Goods and services supplied within ADGM are subject to standard UAE VAT rules. Its tax advantages arise from Qualifying Free Zone Person status (potential 0% corporate tax on qualifying income) and 100% foreign ownership rather than VAT exemptions on goods transactions. Businesses trading goods in ADGM must charge and account for VAT in the same way as mainland UAE businesses.

Structures & Requirements

Licence Types, Company Structures & Registration

Explore the licence options, company structures, and ADGM registration requirements available for ADGM company formation and ADGM company set up.

Licensing

License Types Available

Financial Services Licence: Designed for banks, asset managers, brokers, insurers, fintech firms, and other regulated financial activities requiring FSRA approval as part of ADGM company formation.
Non-Financial or Commercial Licence: Suitable for consultancy, marketing, IT services, e-commerce, professional services, and other commercial activities seeking ADGM business setup.
RegLab Restricted Licence: A regulatory sandbox that enables fintech and regtech startups to test innovative products under FSRA supervision before full ADGM registration.
Virtual Asset and FinTech Permissions: FSRA permissions for regulated digital assets, payment solutions, crypto businesses, and financial technology activities within Abu Dhabi Global Market.
FSRA review timelines for ADGM company set up typically range from 4–12 weeks for complete applications. Incomplete submissions may require additional regulatory review.
Structures & Capital

Company Structures

Special Purpose Vehicle

ADGM SPVs are widely used for asset holding, investment structures, project finance, intellectual property ownership, and securitisation within the ADGM free zone.

Branch Office

Allows an existing foreign company to establish a presence in Abu Dhabi Global Market without incorporating a separate legal entity.

Requirements
At least one shareholder
At least one director
Company secretary for certain ADGM company structures
Share Capital

Most ADGM company formation structures do not require statutory minimum share capital for LTD companies. SPVs and Foundations may require nominal capital depending on the chosen structure. Since ADGM registration requirements can vary, it is advisable to confirm the latest capital requirements before proceeding with your ADGM company set up.

Setup Costs

ADGM Company Set Up Cost at a Glance

The ADGM company set up cost depends on your business activity, licence type, company structure, office requirements, and visa eligibility. Whether you are planning an ADGM company formation or a regulated business in the Abu Dhabi Global Market, understanding the full cost structure helps you plan your investment with confidence.

Non-Financial / Commercial Licence

ADGM business setup costs for non-financial activities generally start from approximately AED 15,000, excluding office space, visa allocations, and activity-specific approvals required for company formation in ADGM.

SPV / Foundation Structures

SPVs and Foundation structures in the ADGM free zone are typically more cost-efficient than operating companies, with pricing depending on the registered corporate service provider, registered office, and business scope.

FSRA-Regulated Activities

Businesses requiring FSRA approval within Abu Dhabi Global Market incur higher ADGM company formation costs due to regulatory licensing, capital adequacy, compliance obligations, and ongoing supervision.

Office, Visa & Compliance Costs

When estimating your ADGM company set up cost, include office leasing, registered address, visa processing, annual renewals, ADGM registration fees, and ongoing compliance requirements.

ADGM Company Set Up Cost Calculator

Calculate the estimated cost of your ADGM company formation based on your business activity, licence type, office requirements, and visa needs. Receive a personalised breakdown for your ADGM business setup in minutes.

Need guidance on ADGM registration or company formation in ADGM? Book a free consultation with our specialists.

Formation Guide

The 5-Step ADGM Company Set Up Process

Follow these five stages to complete your ADGM company formation in the Abu Dhabi Global Market. From selecting the right structure to completing ADGM registration and opening your corporate bank account, each step is designed to help you establish your business efficiently.

1
Choose Activity & Structure
1 – 2 business days
Choose the appropriate business activity within the ADGM free zone and select the most suitable legal structure for your ADGM business setup, whether an operating company, SPV, branch, or foundation.
2
Name & Registration
5 – 10 business days
Reserve your company name, prepare the incorporation documents, complete ADGM registration requirements, and secure your registered office or workspace.
3
Fees & Licence
3 – 5 business days
Pay the applicable ADGM company set up cost, complete regulatory formalities, and receive your trade licence or approval from the relevant authority within Abu Dhabi Global Market.
4
Visa Processing
7 – 10 business days
Apply for investor or employee visas, complete the medical examination, and finish Emirates ID biometric registration for your ADGM company formation.
5
Corporate Bank Account
4 – 6 weeks
Submit your ADGM company documents and complete the corporate bank account opening process to begin operating your business in the UAE.
Key Benefits

Why Businesses Choose ADGM

English Common Law Framework

ADGM provides investors with a globally recognised common law system, independent courts and strong dispute-resolution credibility in Abu Dhabi Global Market.

FSRA Regulatory Credibility

Businesses benefit from the reputation of the FSRA regulator, supporting financial services firms, fintech companies, investment businesses and virtual asset activities.

Strong Holding Structures

ADGM company structures such as SPVs and Foundations support family offices, holding companies, asset protection strategies and succession planning requirements.

Abu Dhabi Institutional Access

Located on Al Maryah Island, ADGM connects companies with Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth ecosystem, banking institutions, asset managers and professional service providers.

Private Financial Standing

Many ADGM entity types are not required to publicly disclose financial accounts, helping businesses maintain commercial confidentiality while operating within a recognised international jurisdiction.

Consider Alternatives

When ADGM May Not Be the Right Fit

Dubai-Focused Operations

DIFC may be more suitable when regulated clients, business partners and operational teams are primarily based in Dubai.

Lowest-Cost Setup

Businesses seeking a lower-cost company formation in the UAE, such as basic trading, consultancy or e-commerce activities, may find other free zones more economical.

Pure Trading or Industrial Activity

Companies without financial services, investment, governance or wealth structuring requirements may not require ADGM’s specialised legal framework.

Minimal UAE Substance

International holding structures with limited UAE operational requirements may consider offshore jurisdictions depending on their business objectives.

IncHub compares ADGM with DIFC, offshore jurisdictions and other UAE free zones before recommending the right structure. ADGM company setup is most suitable when businesses require common law protection, regulatory credibility or Abu Dhabi institutional access.

Free Zone Comparison

ADGM vs DIFC vs Masdar City Free Zone

Compare ADGM with DIFC and Masdar City Free Zone across regulation, courts, business focus, startup ecosystem, cost profile and ideal company types.

Factor Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Masdar City Free Zone
Primary Focus Finance, fintech, investment and holding companies Banking, wealth management, insurance and fintech Technology, AI, clean energy and innovation-led startups
Legal Framework English Common Law English Common Law UAE Civil Law
Regulator & Courts FSRA regulator with ADGM Courts DFSA regulator with DIFC Courts No financial regulator; UAE Courts apply
Ideal Business Types Funds, family offices, fintech, SPVs and holding companies Banks, insurers, investment firms and advisers Startups, SMEs, AI, renewable energy and consulting
Startup Ecosystem Hub71 and a growing fintech ecosystem DIFC Innovation Hub Strong startup and innovation ecosystem
Holding Company Formation Excellent for SPVs and holding structures Excellent, especially for financial groups Available, but less specialised
Cost & Office Profile Competitive, with flexible office options Generally higher, with office requirements More affordable, with flexi-desk options
Best For Investors, fund managers and holding structures Global banks, wealth managers and multinationals Entrepreneurs, tech firms and innovation-led SMEs

IncHub compares ADGM, DIFC and Masdar City Free Zone based on your business activity, regulatory requirements, budget considerations and long-term growth plans before recommending a suitable structure.

Compliance

ADGM Company Compliance Requirements

Standard UAE compliance requirements that apply to all free zone companies—including corporate tax, VAT, UBO reporting, accounting, licence renewals, visa renewals, and FTA updates—are covered in full in IncHub’s UAE Free Zone Compliance Guide. The ADGM-specific obligations that apply after ADGM company registration and vary from other free zones are outlined below.

Annual Audit Requirements

Most ADGM companies must prepare and file audited financial statements annually through an ADGM-approved auditor. For FSRA-regulated entities, audited accounts are a key requirement for maintaining regulatory authorisation. Audit obligations should be confirmed based on your specific ADGM company formation structure and licence category.

FSRA Regulatory Supervision

FSRA-regulated entities must follow ongoing reporting, capital adequacy, and conduct requirements based on their approved licence category. Maintaining ADGM registration requires regular compliance activities, including regulatory returns, reporting obligations and licence renewal procedures.

ADGM Data Protection Compliance

Companies processing personal data must comply with the ADGM Data Protection Regulations 2021, including data handling obligations, breach notification requirements, and data subject rights aligned with GDPR principles. Data Controller registration may also be required depending on business activities.

ADGM Company Compliance Guide

Understand UAE compliance obligations for ADGM free zone companies, including corporate tax, VAT, UBO reporting, accounting requirements, licence renewal and FTA updates through one detailed guide.

Need support managing compliance for your ADGM company? Book a free review call.

Prefer to read it yourself first?

Read the Compliance Guide →
Client Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Watch how IncHub helped businesses set up in Abu Dhabi’s most connected free zone.

Video Stories
Google Reviews 1 / 20
L
L S R Holiday Homes L.L.C
3 weeks ago

Visa renewal can often feel complicated due to the multiple steps involved. However, my experience with IncHub was very smooth. They planned the process in advance, guided me at every stage, and ensured everything was completed on time. What I liked most was that I didn’t have to follow up everything was managed efficiently by their team.

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D
DigitalX Tech – FZCO
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company was not straightforward, especially when it came to choosing the right jurisdiction for my business model. Making the wrong decision could have resulted in unnecessary time and cost. IncHub provided clear and practical guidance, helping me select the most suitable free zone based on my activities.

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C
Cosmium IT – FZCO
2 months ago

Setting up a company in Dubai can get confusing, especially with so many free zones. I wasn’t sure what would suit my business, but IncHub made it simple. They guided me clearly, handled everything, and kept me updated throughout. The whole process felt very smooth. Definitely recommend speaking to them before you get started.

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BLUEDCM FZE
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company through IncHub was seamless from start to finish. Their team handled everything — trade licence, immigration card, and office registration — within the promised timeline. No surprises on costs. If you’re serious about establishing in the UAE, IncHub is who you call first.

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A
ABI Quality Goods Wholesalers Co. L.L.C
2 weeks ago

Most consultants only react when you approach them, but Inchub is different. They track your renewal timelines and remind you in advance. The execution was smooth, and everything was done exactly when it should be. If you want it done right the first time, Inchub is the way to go.

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O
Optimity L.L.C
1 month ago

I had a very positive experience with Inchub for my license renewal. What stood out the most was their follow-up system — I was reminded well before the expiry date, which gave enough time to plan everything properly. The team handled the entire process efficiently, and the renewal was completed without delays.

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Univex L.L.C-FZ
3 months ago

Inchub handled the entire business setup process smoothly — everything was clearly explained, and the execution was efficient from start to finish. They have also assisted and guided us when there were AML compliance notifications from the authority. Overall, a reliable partner for end-to-end corporate services.

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E
Ecom Vacation Homes Rental L.L.C
1 month ago

We had a bit of a challenge when it came to opening the labor file and processing new visas. There were a few complications along the way. That’s where Inchub really stepped in. Their team handled the entire process clearly and kept us updated throughout without us having to follow up constantly. Very reliable team.

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C
CMAR Management FZE
3 months ago

Our experience with Inchub has genuinely exceeded expectations. From the very beginning, the team has been extremely professional, approachable, and proactive. They’ve supported us across multiple areas — including corporate services, corporate tax filing, and visa renewals — all managed in a structured manner.

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T
Toyo Mea L.L.C-FZ
2 months ago

We worked with Inchub on a share amendment, which was quite complex. Their team guided us through each step, managed the process efficiently, and ensured everything was handled correctly despite the challenges. They also handle our accounting and VAT filing smoothly. A reliable and professional team.

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Nicube International FZCO
4 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub across multiple areas. They initially helped us with setting up both our offshore and free zone company, guiding us clearly. Since then, they’ve assisted us with annual renewals on time, and they manage our accounting and VAT filings efficiently. A highly dependable partner.

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Well Mate L.L.C-FZ
5 months ago

I’ve been working with Inchub for several years, and the experience has been consistently positive. Their services are reliable and efficient. They’ve supported me across multiple areas — from managing trade license renewals to assisting with business bank account opening. Having everything under one team saved a lot of effort.

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Telora Global L.L.C – FZ
2 months ago

Managing compliance alongside running a business can get overwhelming. Inchub takes care of our accounting, VAT, CT filings, and license renewal, which has saved us a lot of time and effort. Everything is handled efficiently and professionally. IncHub operates across every discipline and maintains high quality.

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G
Gaia Resources DMCC
2 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub for our ongoing compliance and business support. They handle everything from maintaining our company’s good standing to managing renewals on time, along with accounting and VAT filings. A very smooth experience, and they are definitely a reliable partner.

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Nextgen Brokers FZE
3 months ago

We have engaged Inchub for ongoing compliance support. They handle our company’s good standing, ensure renewals are completed on time, and manage accounting and VAT filings efficiently. The team is proactive, well-organized, and keeps everything on track without the need for constant follow-ups.

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M
Mw Holding Group Ltd
4 months ago

We worked with Inchub for setting up our offshore holding company. They facilitated the entire process smoothly, including the company formation and opening the corporate bank account. They also manage our accounting and bookkeeping. It’s helpful to have one team handling both setup and ongoing requirements.

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J
Jannali Foundation
3 months ago

We engaged Inchub for setting up our RAK ICC foundation. They supported us throughout the entire formation process, including documentation, and guided us at every step. They also assisted with opening the bank account, which was handled smoothly. The team was very organized and efficient.

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D
Drops By Nada Portal
1 month ago

We worked with Inchub for both our license renewal and visa renewal. The entire process was handled very smoothly and efficiently from start to finish. Everything was completed right on time without any complications. Their structured approach and clear communication make them very easy to work with.

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P
Peopex LLC
5 months ago

Setting up a company in the UAE can feel complex. With Inchub, the entire process was handled seamlessly. They took care of everything — from the trade license and immigration card to visa application and even opening the company bank account. The team managed the entire process efficiently.

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A
Aube International Commercial Brokers
4 weeks ago

We’ve been working with Inchub since day one for license renewals, accounting and bookkeeping, and visa processing. The experience has been very smooth. One thing that stands out is how responsive their team is. Whenever we need support, they’re quick to respond and guide us clearly.

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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Work with IncHub

Set Up Your ADGM Company with IncHub

IncHub manages the full ADGM process end-to-end—entity and structure selection, licensing coordination, visa processing, corporate banking introduction, and ongoing regulatory compliance. One partner, from application to fully operational.

Al Fajer Business Centre, Al Garhoud, Dubai  |  www.inchub.ae