ADGM - Abu Dhabi Global Market

UAE's premier international financial center offering world-class regulatory framework, English common law, and comprehensive financial services licensing.

Quick Facts

  • • Established: 2013
  • • Regulator: FSRA (Financial Services Regulatory Authority)
  • • Legal System: English Common Law
  • • Languages: English & Arabic
  • • Currency: AED, USD accepted
  • • Time Zone: GST +4
Last Updated: October 2025Next Review: January 2026
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Financial Hub

Leading international financial center with comprehensive regulatory framework

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Common Law

English common law jurisdiction providing legal certainty and protection

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Global Gateway

Strategic location connecting Middle East, Africa, and Asian markets

About Abu Dhabi Global Market

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is a broad-based international financial center located in the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. Established in 2013, ADGM augments Abu Dhabi's position as a global hub for business and finance.

ADGM operates under an independent jurisdiction with its own civil and commercial laws, regulations, and judicial system based on English common law. It is overseen by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), which ensures world-class standards.

The jurisdiction offers a comprehensive ecosystem for financial services, including banking, capital markets, asset management, insurance, and fintech, making it an ideal location for international businesses.

Key Industries

  • Banking & Financial Services
  • Asset & Investment Management
  • Insurance & Reinsurance
  • Capital Markets & Securities
  • Fintech & Innovation
  • Professional Services

ADGM License Types

Financial Services License

Permitted Activities:

  • Banking
  • Insurance
  • Investment Management
  • Securities Trading
  • Fund Management
Min Capital:
AED 500,000
Visa Allocation:
4-6 visas
Processing Time: 8-12 weeks

Commercial License

Permitted Activities:

  • Trading
  • Consulting
  • Technology Services
  • Professional Services
Min Capital:
AED 150,000
Visa Allocation:
3-4 visas
Processing Time: 3-4 weeks

SPV License

Permitted Activities:

  • Holding Company
  • Special Purpose Vehicle
  • Investment Holding
Min Capital:
AED 150,000
Visa Allocation:
2-3 visas
Processing Time: 2-3 weeks

Key Benefits of ADGM

100% foreign ownership
No personal income tax
No corporate tax (0% for qualifying activities)
Full profit repatriation
English common law jurisdiction
Advanced regulatory framework (FSRA)
Access to UAE banking system
Streamlined business setup process
World-class infrastructure
Strategic location between East and West

Ready to Start Your ADGM Company?

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ADGM Cost Breakdown

Comprehensive cost breakdown for business setup in ADGM

CategoryItemCost RangeNotes
License FeesCommercial LicenseAED 15,000 - 25,000Annual renewal
License FeesFinancial Services LicenseAED 50,000 - 100,000FSRA regulated
Office/Desk CostsFlexi-deskAED 15,000 - 30,000/yearShared workspace
Office/Desk CostsDedicated OfficeAED 40,000 - 80,000/yearPrivate space
Visa FeesInvestor VisaAED 5,000 - 8,000 per visa2-3 year validity
Visa FeesEmployee VisaAED 4,000 - 6,000 per visa2-3 year validity
Additional CostsADGM RegistrationAED 2,000 - 5,000One-time fee
Additional CostsEmirates IDAED 1,000 per personMandatory
Additional CostsMedical TestsAED 500 per personAnnual requirement
Total First Year EstimateBasic SetupAED 50,000 - 85,000Commercial license + basics
Total First Year EstimateFinancial ServicesAED 85,000 - 120,000FSRA regulated services

Last Updated: October 2025

Costs are subject to change. Contact our partners for current pricing and exact quotations.

Important: These costs are estimates based on typical requirements. Actual costs may vary depending on specific business needs, license types, and current market rates. Always consult with official authorities or authorized service providers for precise quotations.

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General Disclaimer

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Information Only:

This information is for educational and informational purposes only. Content is based on research and available information as of the last updated date and may not reflect the most current developments, regulations, or best practices.

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Professional Advice:

This content is not professional advice and should not be relied upon for making important decisions.

Verification Required:

Always verify information with qualified professionals and official sources relevant to your specific situation.

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Individual Circumstances:

Every situation is unique. What works for one person or business may not be suitable for another. Consider your specific circumstances, risk tolerance, and objectives when making decisions.

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No Warranties:

While we strive for accuracy, we make no warranties or representations about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, or suitability of the information provided. Use at your own risk.

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Affiliate Disclosure:

We may earn commissions from qualified purchases or referrals through affiliate links on this site. This does not influence our recommendations, which are based on research and analysis. We only recommend services and products we believe provide value to our readers.

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Limitation of Liability:

We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages arising from your use of this information or any decisions made based on it.

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Official Source:

For the most current and official information, please visit: Official Government Website

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Changes and Updates:

Information, laws, regulations, and market conditions change frequently. We may update this content periodically but cannot guarantee it reflects the most current information available.

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Last Updated: October 2025

Information current as of this date. Please verify for any updates or changes.

By using this information, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this disclaimer and agree to use the information at your own risk and discretion.

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Free ConsultationNo upfront fees
Quick Setup7-14 days average
Verified PartnersLicensed & trusted

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