Business Setup Services in ADGM Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has emerged as a world-class financial free zone, attracting investors, entrepreneurs, and multinational corporations looking to establish a strong presence in the UAE and the broader Middle East. With its independent regulatory framework, tax-friendly policies, and robust legal system based on English common law, ADGM offers an ideal environment for financial services, fintech startups, legal consultancies, and other businesses.

However, navigating the business setup process in ADGM can be complex without expert guidance. That’s where Aviaan—a trusted business consultancy firm—comes in. This blog explores the key advantages of setting up a business in ADGM and how Aviaan can help you at every step of the journey.

Business Setup Services in ADGM Abu Dhabi

Why Choose ADGM Abu Dhabi for Business Setup?

Abu Dhabi Global Market offers unique benefits that make it an attractive destination for investors and entrepreneurs:

1. Strategic Location

Located on Al Maryah Island, ADGM provides direct access to global markets in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe. It is also connected to major infrastructure and international airports.

2. Independent Legal System

ADGM applies a legal system based on English common law, providing international investors with transparency, predictability, and enforceability in contracts and dispute resolution.

3. Business-Friendly Regulations

ADGM offers a progressive regulatory environment with simplified incorporation processes, digital registration services, and zero restrictions on foreign ownership.

4. Tax Advantages

Businesses in ADGM enjoy:

100% foreign ownership
0% corporate tax (currently, with certain exceptions)
No personal income tax
Full repatriation of profits and capital

5. Sector-Specific Focus

ADGM is ideal for:

Financial services and asset management firms
Fintech startups
Legal consultancy firms
Holding companies and SPVs
Tech and innovation-driven enterprises

Business Structures Available in ADGM

When setting up in ADGM, investors can choose from several legal structures based on their business needs:

Private Company Limited by Shares (Ltd)
Branch of a Foreign Company
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV)
Foundations (for wealth management and legacy planning)

Each structure has its own compliance requirements, which is why working with an experienced partner like Aviaan ensures you make the right choice.

Steps to Set Up a Business in ADGM

Setting up a company in ADGM typically involves the following steps:

Determine Business Activity
Select Legal Structure
Reserve Company Name
Prepare Legal Documents (e.g., AoA, Board Resolutions)
Apply for Regulatory Approvals (if applicable)
Submit Application to ADGM’s Registration Authority
Lease Office Space in ADGM
Obtain Commercial License
Open a Corporate Bank Account
Hire Employees and Sponsor Visas

While this might seem straightforward, there are nuances at each stage, such as compliance with the FSRA (Financial Services Regulatory Authority) for financial institutions, which require expert support.

How Aviaan Can Help You Set Up in ADGM

Aviaan offers end-to-end business setup services in ADGM, helping you move from idea to operation efficiently and compliantly.

1. Feasibility Study and Market Entry Strategy

Before you commit, Aviaan conducts a thorough feasibility study and market research to help you:

Understand sector-specific opportunities in ADGM
Assess regulatory requirements
Determine cost structures and risks
Recommend the optimal business model

2. Legal Structure & Business Planning

Aviaan helps you choose the most suitable legal entity and business structure based on your activity, ownership preferences, and tax strategy.

They assist in drafting:

Articles of Association (AoA)
Shareholder Agreements
Board Resolutions
Service Level Agreements (SLA)

3. Document Preparation & Application Filing

The ADGM setup process is highly documentation-intensive. Aviaan prepares and reviews all required documents to ensure full compliance with ADGM’s requirements. These include:

Name reservation forms
Business plan
Lease agreement
Due diligence documents (passport copies, proof of address, etc.)

They also handle communication with the ADGM Registration Authority and FSRA (if needed), saving you time and ensuring smooth approvals.

4. Office Space and Flexi-Desk Solutions

ADGM requires a physical office or flexi-desk within Al Maryah Island. Aviaan connects you with:

Licensed office space providers
Cost-effective coworking spaces
Short-term leasing options

They can also negotiate leases and review contracts on your behalf.

5. Bank Account Opening Assistance

Opening a bank account in the UAE can be a challenge for foreign investors. Aviaan simplifies this process by:

Recommending suitable banks for your business type
Preparing KYC (Know Your Customer) documents
Coordinating appointments and follow-ups with banking personnel

6. Visa Processing and PRO Services

Whether you need a single investor visa or multiple employee visas, Aviaan handles:

Emirates ID registration
Medical tests
Visa stamping
Government relations (PRO) services

Their team ensures your staff are onboarded legally and quickly.

7. Ongoing Compliance and Accounting

Once your company is operational, Aviaan offers full back-office support:

Bookkeeping and accounting
VAT registration and filing (if applicable)
Regulatory compliance updates
Annual license renewal

This ensures your business remains compliant and audit-ready at all times.

Why Choose Aviaan?

Aviaan stands out for its tailored approach to business setup and deep knowledge of the ADGM ecosystem. Here’s why clients trust Aviaan:

Experienced Consultants: With a strong track record in ADGM and other UAE free zones.
Multilingual Team: English, Arabic, and other languages to support global clients.
One-Stop Shop: From strategy and registration to accounting and HR services.
Transparent Pricing: Clear and competitive fee structures with no hidden charges.
Local and International Reach: Helping startups, SMEs, and corporates from over 20 countries.

Case Study 1: Fintech Startup in ADGM

A European fintech firm wanted to expand into the Middle East. Aviaan:

Conducted a feasibility analysis of ADGM vs DIFC
Set up an SPV for asset protection
Assisted with FSRA regulatory approvals
Handled office space, visa processing, and bank account opening

Outcome: Business was operational in 6 weeks with full compliance and banking access.

Case Study 2: Legal Consultancy in ADGM

A UK-based law firm planned to establish a presence in ADGM. Aviaan:

Recommended a branch setup under ADGM rules
Managed all incorporation and licensing procedures
Advised on local staffing and payroll compliance

Outcome: The firm expanded its Middle East client base efficiently and compliantly.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi Global Market is a high-potential jurisdiction for businesses that seek financial stability, global credibility, and long-term growth in the UAE. However, the registration, licensing, and compliance processes require expert navigation. Aviaan’s professional team ensures that your business is set up quickly, correctly, and with strategic foresight.

Whether you’re a startup, SME, or multinational firm, Aviaan is your reliable partner for seamless business setup in ADGM Abu Dhabi.