ADGM Free Zone Company Registration in UAE

Since its inauguration in late October 2015, ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) has earned global acclaim for its robust, progressive regulatory frameworks, its English common law legal system, and its incorporation and business services.

ADGM operates across Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island, an area of 14.38 million sqm, making it one of the largest financial districts in the world. With its expanded district, ADGM attracts a diverse range of businesses including financial institutions, asset management, fintech companies, and professional services firms.

• 100% ownership;
• Minimum share capital is USD 50,000;
• 0% corporate and income tax as well as no withholding tax and restrictions on repatriation of profits;
• ADGM has an independent legal jurisdiction with its own civil and commercial laws, with direct application of English common law;
• Commercial license can be obtained online;
• No attestation required for corporate documents;
• Variety of legal structures available to set up;
• Migration or continuance of existing corporate entities;
• ADGM entities are permitted to own land and property in Dubai (exception: ADGM trusts and foundations are not permitted to own properties in Dubai whether directly or indirectly).

• Branch: Financial Services, Non-Financial Services, Retail;
• Incorporated Cell Company as Investment Company LTD ICC;
• Incorporated Protected Cell Company as Investment Company LTD PCC;
• Incorporated Close/Open-Ended Investment Company LTD;
• Foundation (non-exempt);
• Private Company Limited by Guarantee: Non-Financial Services, Associations; Financial Services;
• Private Company Limited by Shares: Non-Financial Services, Non-Exempt SPV, Continuance SPV, Retail, Continuance Retail.

• Category 1 – Banks;
• Category 2 – Market Maker, Provider of Credit;
• Category 3A – Brokerage;
• Category 3B – Custodian;
• Category 3C – Asset Manager, Fund Manager;
• Category 4 – Investment Advisor, Insurance advisor;
• Category 5 – Islamic Business

1. Required documents and incorporation steps:
   – The client to provide:
   – the company’s proposed name;
   – corporate structure (ADGM permits a wide range of business structures to use);
   – in the case of a company that is to have a share capital, a statement of capital, and initial shareholdings.
2. Required documents:
   – Passport Copy (valid for min 6 months) of authorized signatories and directors;
   – Copy of passport page with the entry stamp;
   – UAE Residence Visa and Emirates ID copies (if applicable);
   – Lease Agreement of the company’s office in ADGM (shared desk or private office)
   – Articles of Association;
   – Resolutions;
   – Nominee Arrangement Forms (if applicable);
   – Economic substance information;
   – Source of Wealth Form;
   – Scan of a 3.5 x 4.5 white background passport type photo.Personal details: telephone number, email address, residential address, country of residence, parent’s names, marital status, religion. For the corporate shareholder, a set of the company’s registration documents is to be provided (notarized and attested).
3. New ADGM company registration documents:
   – The structure of the business will determine the registered documents.
   – Office Rental Agreement (valid for 1 year).
4. Establishment Card issuance (1 working day).
5. Visa applications (5-7 working days).