Company Setup in Abu Dhabi
Set up your company in Abu Dhabi and unleash your business potential
Business Setup in Abu Dhabi is being viewed as a major international business center for organizations seeking to expand globally. Setting up your business in Abu Dhabi provides a key advantage of connecting to emerging markets across the globe.
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Setting up your business in Abu Dhabi offers the significant benefit of linking with emerging global markets.
World-Class Infrastructure
Efficient Business Operations
State-Of-The-Art Logistics Facilities
Investor-Friendly Regulations
Low Corporate Tax
Full Repatriation of Profits
With multiple business setup options such as mainland, free zone, and offshore, Abu Dhabi caters to the diverse needs of aspiring entrepreneurs. Setting up in Abu Dhabi not only allows you to tap into a rapidly evolving economy but also provides access to significant market opportunities. Launching a business in Abu Dhabi is a strategic move that positions you at the forefront of one of the world’s most stable and progressive economies.
Why Setting Up Your Business in Abu Dhabi is Advantageous
- Easy Visa Process: Foreign investors find it relatively easy to obtain visas in Abu Dhabi, making it smoother to bring in the talent you need for business growth.
- Free Zones: Abu Dhabi offers a range of free zones that provide specific benefits to businesses, including 100% foreign ownership, no corporate tax, and no personal income tax.
- Highly Skilled Workforce: Abu Dhabi has an advanced workforce, with many professionals fluent in English.
- Strategic Location: Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Abu Dhabi is perfectly positioned for trade, tourism, and logistics. Its proximity to emerging markets ensures seamless access to a vast customer base.
- Tax Benefits: In most Abu Dhabi jurisdictions, businesses enjoy low corporate taxes. The absence of barriers for repatriating profits and capital further makes it an attractive location from a taxation standpoint.
- Vibrant Economy: Abu Dhabi has a dynamic economy growing at a rapid pace, offering opportunities for businesses to thrive and succeed.
- Access to Global Markets: Business Setup in Abu Dhabi serves as a gateway to international trade, allowing businesses to expand globally and access various markets.
- Ease of Doing Business: The government has introduced numerous reforms to simplify company registration. With efficient and transparent processes, entrepreneurs can quickly focus on business growth.
- Promotion of Entrepreneurship: The Abu Dhabi government actively encourages entrepreneurship through financial incentives, training programs, and business support services.
General Procedures for Company Setup in Abu Dhabi
- Choose the Business Activity: Choose the type of business you plan to operate. The required license depends on whether your business is commercial, industrial, or professional.
- Select the Company Structure and Jurisdiction: Depending on regulatory advantages and costs, you can establish your company in the mainland, a free zone, or offshore. Also, select the type of company, such as Limited Liability Company, Sole Establishment, Branch Office, or Free Zone Entity.
- Register the Trade Name: Obtain a unique trade name from the relevant licensing authorities. It must be distinct and not similar to existing business names.
- Apply for Initial Approval: Obtain government approval that there is no objection to your business activity or plan.
- Prepare Legal Documents and Obtain Trade License: Prepare the company incorporation documents like the MOA and AOA. Apply for the license or permit depending on your business activity.
- Lease Office Space: Mainland companies must lease office space. Free zone companies are required to be located within the specific free zone of interest.
- Register with the Chamber of Commerce: Register your company with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry to benefit from various business services and forums.
- Visa Processing: Apply for visas for yourself, employees, and their dependents. This includes obtaining an Establishment Card, which allows companies to sponsor visas.
Mainland vs. Freezone vs. Offshore: Choosing the Right Business Structure in the UAE
Mainland Companies
Mainland companies are registered with the Department of Economic Development (DED) and have the freedom to operate throughout Abu Dhabi. The requirement for a local partner has been removed, allowing 100% foreign ownership. Mainland companies are ideal for those wishing to work directly in the local market and participate in government tenders.
Freezone Companies
Free zone companies are set up within designated free zones, such as the DMCC or JAFZA. These companies enjoy 100% foreign ownership, tax holidays, and no import/export duties. However, they cannot trade directly within the mainland without using a distributor. Free zone companies are perfect for those focused on import/export, e-commerce, or specific industries.
Offshore Companies
Offshore companies are incorporated in designated offshore jurisdictions within Abu Dhabi. They cannot carry out commercial activities within Abu Dhabi but are allowed to operate internationally. Offshore companies offer privacy, asset protection, and favorable tax laws, making them ideal for international transactions with minimal client interaction.
Licenses Available in Abu Dhabi
- Trade License: For companies involved in the buying and selling of goods.
- Industrial License: Issued to companies engaged in manufacturing.
- Business License: Awarded to service providers, professionals, artisans, and craftsmen.
Documents Required for Company Setup in Abu Dhabi
- Shareholder information
- Passports and visas of shareholders
- Application form
- PDF of the business plan
- Board resolution documents
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Articles of Association (AOA)
- ID proofs for shareholders
You can set up your business in the mainland, free zone, or offshore.
Yes, in most cases, 100% foreign ownership is allowed, especially in free zones.
Abu Dhabi offers low or no corporate tax, plus full repatriation of profits.
The process is streamlined, making it easy for foreign investors to obtain visas for themselves and employees.
The main licenses are Trade License, Industrial License, and Business License.
Free zone companies need a local distributor to trade directly in the mainland.
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