Quick and Easy Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland

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Abu Dhabi Mainland Business Setup

Abu Dhabi, the largest emirate and capital of the UAE, is a global economic powerhouse, historically known for its vast oil reserves. However, the emirate has successfully diversified its economy, reducing reliance on oil. By 2023, over 143,000 active businesses were operating in Abu Dhabi, highlighting its vibrant and inclusive business environment. Entrepreneurs considering business setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland can leverage a range of opportunities across key industries.

Governed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), Abu Dhabi Mainland offers an efficient process for obtaining an Abu Dhabi Mainland license.

With over 3,000 business activities available, companies can explore sectors such as healthcare, technology, real estate, and renewable energy. Additionally, the Abu Dhabi Mainland license cost remains competitive, making the emirate a top choice for regional and international investors.

Foreign investment in Abu Dhabi has surged by over 300% since 2011, driven by favorable regulations, the Golden Visa program, and world-class infrastructure. The ADDED supports businesses by streamlining licensing and offering investment guidance. For entrepreneurs, company formation in Abu Dhabi provides access to a thriving market and global connectivity.

These factors make business setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland an excellent choice for businesses seeking growth in the Middle East.
With a strong economy, investor-friendly policies, and advanced infrastructure, Abu Dhabi provides a supportive environment for businesses to thrive, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability.

Abu Dhabi Mainland Business Setup Advantages

Full Foreign Ownership

International businesses do not require a local Emirati sponsor to be a partner to operate, maintaining 100% ownership. Unless operating in certain strategic industries.

No Minimum Capital Requirement

There is no minimum share capital required and there are exemptions from annual audits.

Tax Exemptions

Tax exemption for personal income tax and tax relief of up to $100,000 for corporate tax, especially for SMEs.

Collaboration with Government Entities

Businesses with an Abu Dhabi Mainland License can work directly with government bodies.

No Trade Restrictions

With an Abu Dhabi Mainland License, your business can operate anywhere in the UAE and outside the country as well.

Extended License Validity

Unlike other regions where licenses need annual renewal, Abu Dhabi provides a 2-year validity for commercial licenses.

Flexible Office Locations

Unlike free zones, businesses in the mainland have the freedom to choose from a wide range of office locations and commercial spaces anywhere in Abu Dhabi.

Proximity to Key Industries

Abu Dhabi Mainland offers proximity to some of the most important industries in the UAE, such as oil and gas, finance, tourism, healthcare, and real estate.

Types of Abu Dhabi Mainland Licenses

Commercial License: For businesses operating in public trading, real estate, construction, hospitals and clinics, and other related sectors.
Occupational License: For businesses with individuals providing specialized services based on their skills, intelligence, and talent.
Professional License: For businesses offering specialized services in specific crafts.
Industrial License: For businesses in manufacturing or industrial operations, including production of goods and materials.
Tourism License: For businesses in the tourism sector.
Agricultural License: For businesses involved in agricultural activities, including farming, fisheries, and livestock management.
Freelancer License: For individuals who wish to work as freelancers in various fields such as media, design, IT, or consultancy.
Craftsmanship License: Similar to an occupational license but focused more on trades or manual labor.
Foreign Branch Office License: For foreign businesses looking to open a branch in the Abu Dhabi Mainland.
Civil Company License: For partnerships of professionals who offer non-commercial services.
E-Commerce License: For businesses conducting trading activities online through websites or e-commerce platforms.
Media License: For businesses and individuals engaged in media-related activities, including media production, broadcasting, advertising, and publishing services.
Transport License: For businesses that provide transportation and logistics services, including car rental companies, courier services, and logistics providers.
General Maintenance License: For businesses involved in the maintenance of buildings, properties, or facilities.
Event Management License: For businesses that manage, organize, and host events or conferences.
Restaurant and Cafeteria License: For businesses involved in food and beverage services.
Healthcare License: For medical and healthcare-related businesses.
Sports and Recreational License: For businesses that manage sports facilities or offer recreational services.
Educational License: For businesses providing education and training services.

01 Choose a Business Activity

Select the business activity that aligns with your intended operations, choosing the right one is crucial for the license approval.

02 Select a Legal Structure

Decide on the legal structure of your business, such as Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (LLC), or Branch Office.

03 Register Trade Name

Choose and register a unique trade name for your business with the ADDED, ensuring it complies with their regulations.

Takes 1 day

04 Get Initial Approval

Apply for initial approval from the ADDED, which confirms that the government has no objection to your business activity and legal structure.

Takes 2 to 3 days

05 Draft Memorandum of Association (MOA)

Draft the MOA for your business, especially if forming an LLC, which outlines the company’s ownership and structure.

Takes 1 to 2 days

06 Lease an Office Space

Secure operating space, the lease agreement is a mandatory requirement for the license issuance.

Takes 1 to 3 days

07 Obtain Approvals from Relevant Authorities (if applicable)

Some business activities require additional approvals from sector-specific authorities (e.g., healthcare, education).

Takes 2 to 4 weeks

08 Submit Final Application

Once you have the initial approval, lease agreement, and all relevant documents, submit the final application to the ADDED for review.

Takes 2 to 5 days

09Pay License Fees

After your application is approved, pay the required license fees, including license costs and registration fees.

Takes 1 day

10Receive Trade License

After the payment, you will receive your business trade license, officially allowing you to start operations in Abu Dhabi Mainland.

Takes 1 to 2 days after payment

11 Apply for Visas

Once you have the trade license, apply for visas for yourself, shareholders, and employees.

Takes 1 to 2 weeks

Documents Required for Company Formation in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Required documents for the Abu Dhabi Mainland license vary based on the legal structure of the business: Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Proprietorship, and Branch Office.

Entity Type	Required Documents
Limited Liability Company (LLC)	Passport copies of all partners
	Copy of residence visa (if applicable)
	Emirates ID (if applicable)
	No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsors (if applicable)
	Trade name reservation certificate
	Initial approval certificate
	Memorandum of Association (MoA)
	Tenancy contract (office space)
	Passport-sized photos of all partners
Sole Proprietorship	Passport copy of the owner
	Copy of residence visa (if applicable)
	No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsor (if applicable)
	Trade name reservation certificate
	Initial approval certificate
	Tenancy contract (office space)
	Passport-sized photos of the owner
General Partnership	Application form
	Partnership agreement
	Passport copies of partners
	Initial approval certificate
	Lease agreement for office space
	Branch Office	Passport copy of the General Manager
Board resolution to open a branch in Abu Dhabi
Certificate of incorporation and memorandum/articles of association of parent company
Trade name reservation certificate
Initial approval certificate
Power of attorney for the branch manager
Tenancy contract (office space)
Audited financial statements of the parent company (if applicable)

Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland Cost

The cost of Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland depends on the type of license required, with the starting price for an Abu Dhabi Mainland License being AED 10,000. Additional expenses include office space costs, which vary based on location and size, as well as potential local sponsor fees (if applicable) and visa and permit costs.

For a precise estimate of Abu Dhabi Mainland Business Setup cost, it is essential to consider factors like the nature of the business, required approvals, and operational needs.

Note the price is an estimate and will vary in reality. To get an accurate breakdown and expert guidance on company formation in Abu Dhabi, connect with our experienced business setup consultants in Abu Dhabi today.