Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, is home to government, energy, finance and a fast-growing technology scene. You can set up on the Abu Dhabi mainland through the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), or in a free zone such as ADGM, Masdar City or KEZAD. Set Hub guides you through the licence, visas and bank account from start to finish.
Mainland or free zone in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi mainland (ADDED licence) lets you trade anywhere in the UAE, work with government entities and open retail or service premises. Licences are issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development.
Abu Dhabi free zones offer 100% foreign ownership and sector-focused ecosystems. They are a good fit for financial services, clean energy, technology, media and logistics companies.
Abu Dhabi free zones at a glance
- ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market): an international financial centre with its own common-law courts, suited to financial services, holding companies and SPVs.
- Masdar City Free Zone: sustainability, clean energy, technology and research companies. See our Masdar City setup guide.
- KEZAD (Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi): industrial, manufacturing, logistics and trading businesses next to Khalifa Port.
- twofour54: media, gaming and entertainment production companies.
- Hub71: a technology start-up ecosystem backed by Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investors.
How to set up a company in Abu Dhabi, step by step
- Define your business activity and check which authority licenses it.
- Choose the jurisdiction and legal structure: for example an LLC on the mainland or a free zone company or SPV in ADGM.
- Reserve your trade name and get initial approval.
- Prepare and submit documents: passports, photos and, for corporate shareholders, attested board resolutions and incorporation documents.
- Secure office space, whether a physical office, co-working space or flexi-desk depending on the licence.
- Collect your licence, then apply for your establishment card, visas and corporate bank account.
How much does business setup in Abu Dhabi cost?
The cost depends on the jurisdiction (ADDED mainland, ADGM or another free zone), your activity, office and number of visas. Get your personalised pricing: share your plans and a consultant will send you a tailored quote. Your total depends on the jurisdiction, activity, office and number of visas. Get a quick estimate with our business setup cost calculator.
Why set up in Abu Dhabi with Set Hub
- We compare Abu Dhabi with Dubai mainland and other free zones so you choose on facts, not sales targets.
- Visas, bank account opening and corporate tax registration handled in one place.
- Support after launch with renewals, PRO services and accounting.
Frequently asked questions
Is Abu Dhabi more expensive than Dubai for setting up a company?
It depends on the zone and activity. Some Abu Dhabi packages are competitive with Dubai; ADGM is priced for financial and holding structures. Ask us for a side-by-side quote.
Can I own 100% of an Abu Dhabi mainland company?
Most commercial and professional activities now allow full foreign ownership on the mainland. A small number of strategic activities still have conditions.
How long does it take?
It depends on the jurisdiction, your business activity and any external approvals. Free zone licences are usually quicker than mainland licences. Your consultant will give you a clear timeline together with your quote.
Ready to start? Book a consultation with a Set Hub consultant to plan your Abu Dhabi company.