Business Setup in Abu Dhabi – Company Setup Guide & FAQs

Set up Your Business
in Abu Dhabi Freezone

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE, known for its stable economy, investor-friendly policies, and a growing region for innovation and industry. Business setup in Abu Dhabi is ideal for entrepreneurs and investors seeking long-term opportunities in key sectors like energy, finance, healthcare, tourism, and tech.

It’s not just the seat of government; business setup in Abu Dhabi positions you in a serious global market with access to world-class infrastructure, incentives, and regulatory support designed to foster sustainable business growth.

Abu Dhabi
Business Setup
Package

Starts from AED 18,000
  • 1-Year Trade Licence
  • 2-Year UAE Visa
  • Medical & Emirates ID
  • Status Change
  • Establishment Card
  • Free Lease Agreement
Abu Dhabi

Still Thinking About Setting Up
Your Business in Abu Dhabi?

Fill out the form below and let our experts guide you through your business setup in the Abu Dhabi Freezone. You might still not be ready to take the leap or just exploring your options – we’ll be happy to help either way.

Experience UAE’s First
AI-Powered Business Setup
Cost Calculator

Get Instant Quote
In just 20 seconds

Frequently Asked Questions About Business Setup in Abu Dhabi

Answer: Business licenses In Abu Dhabi

  • Commercial License
  • Industrial License
  • Professional License
  • Tourism License
  • Agricultural License

Answer:

  • Yes, 100% foreign ownership is allowed for many business activities
  • Available in both mainland and free zone setups
  • No need for a local sponsor in most sectors

Answer:

  • Mainland company
  • Free zone company
  • Offshore company

Answer:

  • Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) for mainland
  • Free Zone Authorities (e.g., ADGM, KIZAD) for free zones
  • Other specific industry-related bodies

Answer:

  • No minimum capital for most mainland licenses
  • Free zones may have specific capital requirements
  • Varies by business activity and legal structure

Answer:

  • Mainland: 3–7 working days (on average)
  • Free zone: 1–5 working days
  • Offshore: Around 10 working days

Answer:

  • Access to UAE local market
  • Eligibility to bid for government contracts
  • Office location flexibility
  • No limitations on business scope within UAE

Answer:

  • 100% foreign ownership
  • Tax exemptions (customs/import/export duties)
  • Full repatriation of profits and capital
  • No currency restrictions

Answer:

  • Passport copies of shareholders
  • Proposed trade name
  • Business activity details
  • Lease agreement for office space
  • Initial approval from ADDED or relevant authority

Answer:

  • Starts from AED 12,000 in some free zones
  • Mainland cost varies based on license type and office size
  • Government fees, visa costs, and office rent to be considered

Answer:

  • Yes, remote setup is possible
  • Local service agents or authorized consultants can assist
  • Residency visa optional unless managing business on-site

Answer:

  • Yes, for mainland companies
  • Free zones may offer flexi-desks or virtual offices
  • Ejari or tenancy contract usually required

Answer:

  • ADGM: Financial and professional services focus
  • KIZAD: Industrial, trading, and logistics focus
  • Both offer 100% ownership and tax benefits

Answer:

  • Yes, after company formation and acquiring establishment card
  • Number of visas depends on office size and license type

Answer:

  • Yes, 9% corporate tax applies if annual profits exceed AED 375,000
  • Free zone companies may qualify for tax incentives if compliant

Answer:

  • Yes, e-commerce licenses are available
  • Suitable for residents and foreign entrepreneurs
  • Can operate through free zones like Masdar City or TwoFour54

Answer:

  • Mainland: target UAE market and public contracts
  • Free zone: tax benefits and international focus
  • Consider budget, activity, and expansion goals

Answer:

  • Submit trade license and company documents
  • Provide passport copies and proof of address
  • Meet bank’s compliance and KYC requirements

Answer:

  • No longer required for most activities
  • 100% foreign ownership allowed in most sectors
  • Local service agents may still be needed for specific licenses

Answer:

  • Yes, government offers incentives and incubator support
  • Initiatives like Hub71 encourage tech and innovation startups
  • Competitive cost and strategic location

Answer:

    • Business Setup in Abu Dhabi offers strategic location, access to government contracts, excellent infrastructure, and full foreign ownership in many sectors.

Answer:

    • Yes, Business Setup in Abu Dhabi now allows 100% foreign ownership for many business activities in both mainland and Free Zones.

Answer:

    • Business Setup in Abu Dhabi offers commercial, professional, industrial, and tourism licenses depending on your business activity.

Answer:

    Business Setup in Abu Dhabi can take 5 to 10 working days if all documents are complete and approvals are secured on time.

Answer:

    • Yes, after completing Business Setup in Abu Dhabi, you can open a corporate bank account with local or international banks operating in the UAE.

GET A FREE

CALL-BACK

Start a Conversation
Fill in your details below to instantly be connected with your consultant of choice.
Sonia Shareef
Sonia Shareef
Urdu - Punjabi - Hindi - English
Erica Cincilei
Erica Cincilei
Romanian - Russian - English
Zain UL Abedin
Zain UL Abedin
English - Urdu
Aizada Azimzhanova
Aizada Azimzhanova
Russian - Turkish - Kyrgyz - Kazakh - Persian - English
Ayesha Wajahat
Ayesha Wajahat
Urdu - Hindi - English
Tayssir Ben Rhaiem
Tayssir Ben Rhaiem
Arabic - French - English