Most activities allow 100% foreign ownership on the mainland under Federal Decree-Law No. 32 of 2021. ADGM and Free Zones have always offered 100% foreign ownership. ADIO can confirm whether your activity is on the positive list.
Mainland for direct UAE market access. Free Zone for international trade and tax efficiency. ADGM for asset management, holding structures and regulated financial services under English common law.
ADGM: 2–5 working days. Free Zone: 5–10 working days. Mainland: 7–14 working days. Regulated activities take longer due to regulator approval.
Strong-fit enquiries get a 24-hour SLA on initial contact. General enquiries are routed within 3 working days.
Every business needs a trade licence (commercial, professional or industrial). Regulated activities require sector approvals from authorities like the Central Bank, FSRA, DOH or SCA.
ADGM SPV: from USD 1,500 in year one. Free Zone trade licence: USD 4,000–12,000. Mainland LLC: USD 8,000–20,000 depending on activity and visa quota.
No. ADIO’s investor services are provided free as part of the Abu Dhabi government’s investment promotion mandate.
Passport copies, business plan, financial statements (last 3 years), references, and regulator letters for restricted sectors. ADIO provides the full checklist for your activity.
A trade licence entitles the owner and qualifying employees to UAE residency visas, typically 2 years renewable. The 10-year Golden Visa is available based on investment thresholds.
Yes. The Golden Visa includes dependents with no minimum-stay requirement. ADIO supports schooling and clinic placement.
9% federal corporate tax applies to taxable profit above AED 375,000. Qualifying Free Zone Persons pay 0% on qualifying income. Personal income tax remains 0%.
Yes, 5% VAT applies to most goods and services. Some sectors (healthcare, education, exports) are zero-rated or exempt.
No. You need an active trade licence and registered address. ADIO can introduce you to bank relationship managers to expedite once you are licensed.
Yes. The UAE has no foreign exchange controls and no restrictions on profit repatriation.
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