Background

Abu Dhabi Mainland
Company Formation

Abu Dhabi Mainland, regulated by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), is a premier business hub offering companies unrestricted access to local and international markets. With its robust infrastructure, investor-friendly regulations, and flexible licensing options, it caters to startups, SMEs, and global enterprises alike. The region provides a stable economic environment, competitive operational costs, and access to a skilled workforce, making it ideal for businesses across sectors such as technology, finance, healthcare, and logistics. Its strategic location and supportive ecosystem position Abu Dhabi Mainland as a top destination for sustainable business growth.

Why Invest in Abu Dhabi Mainland?

Strategic Location

Abu Dhabi offers strategic location, stable environment, world-class infrastructure, skilled workforce, and global market access.

Strong Economy

Absolutely the best place to set up a company with a strong economy and supportive government policies.

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Business Friendly

100% foreign ownership allowed with competitive setup costs and streamlined processes across mainland and free zones.

Tax Benefits

Attractive tax structure with corporate tax exemptions in free zones and competitive rates in mainland operations.

What are the Types of Business Entities in Abu Dhabi?

Choose the right business structure that aligns with your goals and operational requirements in Abu Dhabi.

Mainland Region

Covers expenses related to setting up a business in the heart of Abu Dhabi mainland. Includes trade license fees, office space costs, and government charges.

  • Tailored trade license
  • Office setup assistance
  • Government fee handling
  • Full UAE market access

Free Zones

Details on setting up in free zones like ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) and Masdar City. Information includes license fees, visa costs, and 100% ownership incentive.

  • 100% foreign ownership
  • Tax exemptions
  • ADGM & Masdar City options
  • Limited trading outside zone

Offshore Setup

Guidance on registering offshore companies in Abu Dhabi. Advises on registration fees, legal requirements, and benefits for international operations.

  • International operations
  • Competitive rates
  • Legal compliance
  • Global business structure

Mainland vs Free Zone

Mainland offers full UAE market access; free zones provide 100% ownership but have trading limitations outside the zone.

  • Market access comparison
  • Ownership structures
  • Trading restrictions
  • Tax implications

Process of Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Our streamlined 6-step process includes selecting activity, legal structure, trade name, initial approvals, MOA drafting, document notarization, and licensing.

01Business Activity
Define your core operations and select appropriate business activities for Abu Dhabi mainland registration.
02Legal Structure
Choose the right legal structure - LLC, sole establishment, or partnership based on your business needs.
03Trade Name
Reserve a compliant and unique company name with Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED).
04Initial Approvals
Obtain preliminary clearance and documentation requirements from relevant authorities.
05MOA & Documentation
Prepare and notarize Memorandum of Association, Articles of Association, and submit required documents.
06License Issuance
Pay government fees, complete registration process, and receive your official Abu Dhabi trade license.

Documents Required for Company Registration in Abu Dhabi

Ensure you have all necessary documentation ready for a smooth and efficient registration process in Abu Dhabi.

Personal Documents
  • ✓Valid passport copies of all shareholders
  • ✓Passport-size photographs
  • ✓No Objection Certificate (if applicable)
  • ✓Educational certificates for professional licenses
Business Documents
  • ✓Memorandum of Association
  • ✓Articles of Association
  • ✓Office lease agreement
  • ✓Business plan and activity description
Corporate Documents
  • ✓Board resolution for company formation
  • ✓Power of attorney
  • ✓Shareholder agreements
  • ✓Company incorporation certificate
Additional Requirements
  • ✓Trade name reservation certificate
  • ✓Initial approval from ADDED
  • ✓Special approvals for regulated activities
  • ✓Bank reference letters

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about business setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland and Free Zones.

Take the First Step

Schedule your free consultation today

Contact Information
📍Office number 205, Ontario Tower, Business Bay, Dubai
📞+971 50 419 3507
✉️info@globalvisionuae.com
⏰Mon–Sat, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
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