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Business Setup in Abu Dhabi
Start Your Business in Abu Dhabi with 100% Ownership
Abu Dhabi offers one of the most business-friendly ecosystems in the Middle East. With 0% corporate tax for qualifying businesses, full foreign ownership, and streamlined government processes through ADDED, setting up your company in the UAE capital has never been faster or more affordable.
Business Setup Cost Calculator
Select a license type below to see a complete fee breakdown with all government charges, visa costs, and PRO services included.
Why Start a Business in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi is the economic capital of the UAE, offering world-class infrastructure, investor-friendly policies, and access to global markets.
100% Foreign Ownership
Full ownership of your company with no local sponsor required for most business activities under UAE law.
0% Corporate Tax
Qualifying businesses enjoy 0% corporate tax rate. Free zone companies also benefit from tax exemptions.
Global Market Access
Strategically located with access to 1.5 billion consumers across Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia.
Fast Setup Process
Licenses issued in 2-3 business days. Streamlined digital processes through ADDED and ICE system.
Skilled Workforce
Access to a highly educated, multilingual talent pool with competitive labor costs.
Political & Economic Stability
One of the safest and most stable countries in the world with a strong, diversified economy.
Complete Fee Breakdown by License Type
See exactly what you'll pay with no hidden fees. Select a license type to view all costs.
| Service / Procedure | Fee (AED) | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trade Name | AED 170 | Mandatory | Trade name reservation fees |
| Memorandum of Association | AED 450 | Mandatory | Legal contract notarization fees |
| Lease Agreement (Ejari) | To be confirmed | Mandatory | Provided by Client (varies by location) |
| Ultimate Beneficial Owner | AED 150 | Mandatory | UBO data registration |
| License Issuance | AED 7,018 | Active | Government issuance & licensing fees (6,868 + 150) |
| Establishment Card Linking | Free of Charge | Procedural | Owner visits Immigration to finalize |
| E-Channel (Immigration) | AED 3,400 | Mandatory | Smart Channel system (annual fee) |
| Investor Entry Permit | AED 460 | Procedural | Initial entry visa for the investor |
| Change of Status | AED 710 | Procedural | Visa status adjustment within UAE |
| Medical Test | AED 250 | Mandatory | Preventive Medicine Center fees |
| Emirates ID & Residency | AED 900 | Active | ID card issuance & visa stamping fees |
| Health Insurance | To be confirmed | Mandatory | Price depends on age (visit insurance office) |
| Labor Update | AED 523 | Procedural | Ministry of Human Resources file update |
| Corporate Tax Registration | AED 400 | Crucial | Federal Tax Authority registration fees |
For a free consultation, contact us on WhatsApp:
Chat on WhatsApp: +971 50 368 9310How to Set Up Your Business in Abu Dhabi
Four simple steps to get your business license and start trading.
Choose Your License Type
Select from Sole Establishment, Trader License, Freelance, or Branch License based on your business needs and budget.
Submit Documents
Provide passport copies, Emirates ID, and the required documents for your chosen license type.
Government Approvals
We handle all ADDED filings, security approvals, and regulatory clearances on your behalf.
License Issued & Visa Processing
Receive your trade license and begin visa processing for yourself and your employees.
Required Documents for Business Setup in Abu Dhabi
Preparing the right documents upfront speeds up the approval process significantly.
- Valid passport copy of all shareholders
- Emirates ID copy (if resident)
- Passport-size photographs
- Tenancy contract / Ejari (if applicable)
- Business plan (for certain activities)
- No Objection Letter (if applicable)
We Handle the Paperwork
Our PRO team manages all government submissions, document attestation, and follow-ups with ADDED, MOHRE, ICP, and other authorities. You focus on your business.
Which License is Right for You?
| Feature | Sole Establishment (LLC) | Abu Dhabi Trader License (3 Years) | Freelance License (Abu Dhabi) 2026 | Branch of Local License (Abu Dhabi) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Validity | Annual | 3 Years | 1 Year | Annual |
| Labor Quota | Based on office | 3 quotas | None | Based on office |
| Lease Required | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| 100% Ownership | Yes | Yes | Yes | N/A (Branch) |
| Government Contracts | Yes | Limited | No | Yes |
| Visa Sponsorship | Yes | Up to 3 | No | Yes |
| Starting From | AED 13,431 | AED 13,958 | AED 7,485 | AED 6,667 |
Frequently Asked Questions
The Freelance License starts from AED 65 for security approval and is the most affordable option for individuals. For trading businesses, the Abu Dhabi Trader License offers great value with a 3-year validity and no lease requirement.
Most licenses are issued within 2-3 business days after document submission. Visa processing takes an additional 1-2 weeks. Express options are available for urgent setups.
Yes, Abu Dhabi allows 100% foreign ownership for most business activities under the updated Commercial Companies Law. Free zone companies also offer full foreign ownership by default.
It depends on your license type. The Abu Dhabi Trader License and Freelance License do not require a physical office. Sole Establishment and Branch License require a tenancy contract.
No, the Freelance License does not allow labor recruitment. It is designed for individual professionals working independently.
The Trader License is a special 3-year license from ADDED that includes 3 labor quotas and requires no physical office lease. Ideal for small traders and startups.