ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market)
Abu Dhabi's common-law financial centre for institutions and family offices.
Overview
ADGM is an international financial centre and free zone established by federal decree in 2013, operating as Abu Dhabi's financial hub with its own English-common-law framework and independent courts. It's the premium, institutionally-credible zone for financial services, asset and wealth management, fintech, holding structures and family offices.
Key benefits
- Legal system based directly on English Common Law with independent courts
- 100% foreign ownership; 0% personal income tax
- Globally respected regulatory framework (FSRA) trusted by institutions
- Premier ecosystem for financial services, fintech, funds and family offices
- Strong reputation aiding banking and fundraising
- Full profit / capital repatriation
Business activities & licenses
ADGM supports a range of license types and activities, including:
- Financial services (banking, asset/fund management, insurance, fintech)
- Holding companies & SPVs
- Family offices
- Professional services, tech and retail/office
Ownership & visas
100% foreign ownership — regulated activities need FSRA authorisation.
Visa quota is linked to leased office space; physical presence generally required. SPV/holding structures have limited or no visa needs.
Cost & timeline
Premium. Non-financial company formation commonly from ~AED 40,000–80,000+ in year one; regulated financial firms from ~USD 40,000+.
Non-financial: days to weeks; FSRA-regulated firms: often several months.
Prices are indicative starting points, not quotes. Government and free-zone fees change frequently — we confirm current, all-in figures before you commit.
Is ADGM right for you?
Financial-services firms, fund managers, fintechs, family offices, holding companies and professional firms that need an internationally-credible, common-law jurisdiction and will pay a premium for standing.
What makes ADGM different
- Applies English Common Law directly, with its own independent courts.
- A leading MENA fintech and financial hub with a dedicated regulator (FSRA).
Compare alternatives
How ADGM compares
| Free zone | Emirate | License from* | Typical timeline | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADGM This page | Abu Dhabi | AED 40,000/yr | Non-financial: days to weeks; FSRA-regulated firms: often several months | Finance · Family office |
| DIFC → | Dubai | AED 25,000/yr | ~3–5 weeks non-financial; longer for DFSA-regulated firms | Finance · Funds |
| twofour54 → | Abu Dhabi | AED 3,500/yr | Registration typically ~3–5 working days; add visa processing | Media · Film & gaming |
* Indicative license-only starting points for budgeting — not quotes. Compare all 17 zones
ADGM — frequently asked questions
01How much does it cost to set up in ADGM?＋
Premium. Non-financial company formation commonly from ~AED 40,000–80,000+ in year one; regulated financial firms from ~USD 40,000+. These are indicative figures for budgeting — Incorporate Dubai will confirm current, all-in pricing for your activity and visa needs.
02Can I own 100% of my ADGM company?＋
100% foreign ownership — regulated activities need FSRA authorisation.
03How many visas can I get with ADGM?＋
Visa quota is linked to leased office space; physical presence generally required. SPV/holding structures have limited or no visa needs.
04How long does ADGM setup take?＋
Non-financial: days to weeks; FSRA-regulated firms: often several months. Timelines depend on document readiness, visa processing and bank onboarding.
05Who is ADGM best for?＋
Financial-services firms, fund managers, fintechs, family offices, holding companies and professional firms that need an internationally-credible, common-law jurisdiction and will pay a premium for standing.