Set Up a Company in Abu Dhabi Global Market
Abu Dhabi's international financial centre. English common law jurisdiction. Award-winning fintech hub.
Abu Dhabi Global Market
ADGM Registration Authority
- Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
- Regulated by ADGM Registration Authority
- Established 2013
- Official website
Best for:
Why Choose ADGM?
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is Abu Dhabi's international financial centre, operating under English common law similar to DIFC. Located on Al Maryah Island, ADGM hosts financial services firms, fintech companies, and professional services businesses. ADGM has gained recognition as a leading fintech hub.
English Common Law
Operates under English common law jurisdiction.
Financial Centre
Abu Dhabi's premier international financial hub.
Fintech Hub
Award-winning regulatory sandbox for fintech innovation.
Competitive Pricing
Generally more affordable than DIFC for similar services.
Modern Infrastructure
State-of-the-art facilities on Al Maryah Island.
FSRA Regulation
World-class financial regulation by FSRA.
Important: What ADGM companies cannot do
- Located in Abu Dhabi — not Dubai
- Regulated activities require FSRA approval
- Smaller ecosystem than DIFC currently
ADGM Setup Costs — 2026 Pricing
Prices shown are indicative of 2026 market rates. Exact costs depend on your chosen activities, visa quota, and office package. Get an exact quote →
Year 1 total: ~AED 30,000+ |Annual renewal: From AED 19,500. Year 2 onwards is typically 30–40% less as registration fees are one-off.
How to Register a Company in ADGM
Choose Your Activities
Select up to 1-3 business activities from ADGM's approved list.
Reserve Your Company Name
Choose a unique company name following UAE naming rules. Must include FZE or FZCO suffix.
Submit Documents
Passport copy, photo, proof of address. Can be processed 100% remotely.
Receive Initial Approval
ADGM reviews your application. Initial approval typically takes 5 business days.
Pay & Receive Your Licence
After payment, your trade licence is issued within 5-21 working days.
Apply for Visas
With your licence, apply for UAE residence visas. Process takes 3-5 weeks with in-person medical and biometrics.
UAE Residence Visas Through ADGM
Visa Quota
With a ADGM licence you can sponsor up to 100 residence visas depending on your office package. Flexi desk packages typically allow 2 visas.
Visa Cost
Each UAE residence visa through ADGM costs approximately AED 4,500 – 7,000 including entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping fees.
Visa Validity
UAE free zone residence visas are valid for 2–3 years and can be renewed. Your visa is tied to your company — if the licence lapses, visas must be renewed or cancelled.