Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
Financial services, fintech — Abu Dhabi, UAE
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Overview
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is an international financial centre on Al Maryah Island operating under its own English common law framework. Regulated by three independent authorities — the Registration Authority, Financial Services Regulatory Authority, and ADGM Courts — it serves as a hub for banking, asset management, fintech, and professional services. ADGM's legal certainty and arbitration capabilities attract global financial institutions.
What to verify before choosing ADGM
High-value option for financial, professional, holding and Abu Dhabi market credibility.
Separate regulated financial services from non-regulated technology or consulting activities before applying.
Budget for compliance, office requirements and annual filings rather than comparing only the incorporation fee.
Business Activities (262)
The following 262 business activities are available in ADGM, organized by category.
Consulting (39)
E-Commerce (10)
Finance (25)
Freelance (16)
Legal (15)
Professional Services (21)
Technology (41)
Trading (95)
Other Free Zones in Abu Dhabi
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to set up a company in ADGM?
ADGM does not currently publish a package price that we could verify. Contact the authority directly for a written quote covering the licence, registration, visas, office and renewal.
What business activities can I do in ADGM?
ADGM offers 262 licensed business activities across 8 categories, including Consulting, E-Commerce, Finance, Freelance. Each activity requires a specific license type (commercial, professional, or industrial).
Can foreigners own 100% of a company in ADGM?
Free-zone structures generally permit up to 100% foreign ownership. Confirm the permitted structure, activity and any sector-specific approvals directly with ADGM before applying.
How long does it take to get a license in ADGM?
Processing time depends on the selected activity, required approvals, shareholder documents and the completeness of the application. Ask ADGM for a current written estimate.
What visas can I get through ADGM?
Contact ADGM for current visa pricing. Eligibility, sponsorship, quota, duration and dependent options vary by authority and applicant; verify them with the relevant immigration authority and ADGM.
Data sources and limits
Free-zone prices, activity lists and visa quotas change frequently. Use this page as a structured comparison layer, then verify the final package, renewal cost, visa allocation, office requirement and activity wording with the official authority or a licensed formation agent before payment.
Start Your Company in ADGM
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