ADGM — Abu Dhabi Global Market
ADGM is an international financial centre with a structured setup pathway and clear activity categorisation. Often used for holding structures, SPVs, foundations, and regulated entities.
Should you choose ADGM?
ADGM is an international financial centre with a structured setup pathway and clear activity categorisation. Often used for holding structures, SPVs, foundations, and regulated entities.
Who this is for: Regulated finance, fintech, funds, family offices, private wealth, holding structures, sophisticated governance
Key caution: Always verify current pricing, activity suitability, and banking realities before committing.
Best for
Regulated finance
Starting from
Request quote
Visas
Visas available through partner arrangements
Office
Office required; co-working available
Timeline
~10 business days
Banking
Smoother KYC
Overview
ADGM, the Abu Dhabi Global Market, is an international financial centre on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, operating within an English common-law framework that gives it strong legal credibility. It is widely used for holding structures, special purpose vehicles, foundations, family offices, and regulated finance and fintech entities, where structure quality and institutional trust matter more than the lowest-cost entry. From January 2025 ADGM reduced its commercial licence fee to a flat AED 1,000 for selected non-financial categories, which lowered the entry point for some businesses, though regulated and specialist activities remain priced according to their category and regulated status. The setup process is registry-led and documentation-disciplined, so founders should be ready with clear activity selection, a business plan, and director information. Office space is required, with co-working and serviced options available, and visas are processed through an arrangement with Abu Dhabi authorities, with quotas tied to office size. ADGM's regulatory reputation generally supports smoother banking conversations with major banks, although onboarding still depends on the specific structure and substance. Because the centre sits in Abu Dhabi, founders doing primarily Dubai-focused client work should weigh the location, and those who only need a simple operating company quickly may find it more structure than they require. Compare it against DIFC for financial-centre positioning, and confirm current fees and category requirements directly with ADGM before committing.
Who it suits
This may apply when
- •Investment and holding structures
- •Professional services with higher trust requirements
- •Founders needing stronger institutional signaling
- •Firms where structure quality matters more than low-cost entry
May not be the best fit when
- •The founder only needs a practical operating company quickly
- •Budget is highly constrained
- •The business model does not benefit from added structural sophistication
Business activities
Activity availability may vary. Confirm with the authority for your specific activity.
Pricing & Packages
Commercial Licence (non-financial)
AED 1,000 /yr
Includes
- Commercial licence flat fee
- ADGM registration
Not included
- Office lease
- Visa processing
- Regulatory fees
Regulated Entity
Custom /yr
Includes
- Regulatory licence
- ADGM registration
- Multiple visas
Not included
- Office lease
- Additional regulatory fees
Pricing is indicative. Last checked: March 2026. Always confirm current fees and inclusions directly.
Visa & office considerations
Visas
Visas are processed through a partnership arrangement with Abu Dhabi authorities. Quotas depend on office size.
Office
Located on Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi. Co-working and serviced offices available.
Banking & KYC realities
ADGM's strong regulatory reputation facilitates smoother banking relationships with major banks.
Setup process
- 1Select licence type
- 2Submit application
- 3Receive approval (~10 business days if requirements met)
- 4Secure office
- 5Pay fees
- 6Register
- 7Apply for visas
Common requirements
- Passport copy
- Business plan
- CV of directors
- Proof of address
Common mistakes to avoid
Compare ADGM with alternatives
| Criteria | ADGM | DIFC |
|---|---|---|
| Starting cost | Request quote | AED 15,000 |
| Ideal for | Regulated finance, fintech, funds, family offices, private wealth, holding structures, sophisticated governance | Financial services, fintech, venture studios, innovation-led startups in premium Dubai ecosystem |
| Visas | Visas available through partner arrangements | Visas available; quota depends on office tier |
| Office | Office required; co-working available | Premium office space in DIFC Gate district |
| Timeline | ~10 business days | 7–14 business days |
| Banking | Strong regulatory reputation aids banking | Premium banking relationships available |
| Remote-first | No | No |
Frequently asked questions
Sources & methodology
Last checked: March 2026
This page is educational and not legal or tax advice. Fees, requirements, and authority policies can change. Always confirm the latest official requirements and get qualified advice for your specific situation.
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