Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) – The Financial Freezone of the UAE

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The new addition to the financial landscape of the UAE is the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). It is an international financial center for local, regional and international institutions based in the UAE to start their branch, office, or headquarters.

ADGM offers an open platform that houses various services such as banking, insurance, wealth & asset management and capital market activities. With the world-class infrastructure, robust legal framework and streamlined business support services, ADGM is gaining popularity as an investor’s favorite choice in the UAE.

ADGM is aligned with international standards and best practices of global financial centers. It fosters an environment of innovation & entrepreneurship. With its robust legal and regulatory system, ADGM is also focused towards supporting the global efforts of curbing money laundering and illegal transactions.

ADGM is a transparent and investor-friendly financial center of the UAE aim to achieve global recognition as one of the best financial centers in the world.

Which are the Authorities under ADGM Freezone?

The ADGM’s 3 independent authorities are the easy and effective business setup are the following:

1. Registration Authority

For investors to set up their company in ADGM, the Registration Authority is the contact point. The whole process of application submissions, company incorporation, licensing takes place via the Registration Authority of ADGM.

Aurion Business Consultants provide assistance in company formation in the ADGM Freezone. Our Consultants are constantly in touch with the ADGM Authority for company registration and business support activities. To know more Feel free to reach out to us!

2. Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA)

The FSRA have established regulations and policies for managing the financial market in the UAE with a high level of transparency.

The FSRA principles are in line with the internationally recognized regulatory framework. It helps in tracking down any money laundering activities.

3. ADGM Courts

It supports ADGM with a robust law framework for civil and commercial disputes. The business entities registered under the ADGM will be governed by the ADGM Courts.

ADGM has its own jurisdiction and has developed the regulatory frameworks, policies, etc., in collaboration with other international financial centers, global institution, and regulators.

The business sector in AGDM operates in line with global best practices and provides a business-friendly environment and infrastructure for all sort of business owners across the world.

Type of Business Establishment in the ADGM Freezone

Mainly there are 4 types of business establishments investors could incorporate in the ADGM Freezone

• Company Limited by Shares
• Branch of a foreign company
• A company limited by guarantee
• Partnership form

Businesses that are the best fit for the ADGM Freezone?

In addition to institutions and financial services providers, ADGM has the infrastructure ready for a wide range of nonfinancial businesses to set up their base.

Businesses can benefit from the legal & operational platform, explore the experience and networking opportunities within an international, regional and local business community.

The following businesses can explore the new financial center of the UAE – ADGM

• Professional Service Providers (Law firms, Accounting, Consultants, Business Training, IT and HR Firms)
• Corporate headquarters, management offices
• and treasury functions
• Single-family offices, the proprietary investment
• entities and trusts
• Holding companies and special purpose vehicles
• Industry and professional associations
• Retail outlets, F&B, and services

Key Benefits of Company Formation in ADGM Freezone

Similar to the other Freezones in the UAE, the ADGM also offers a set of benefits for its investors.

• Simple and easy to set up business procedures
• No physical office space required in ADGM. Registered agent’s address would be used for communication.
• 100% foreign ownership
• No tax for 50 years
• No restrictions to transfer of capital and profits out of UAE
• Common law jurisdiction

How to set up a business in ADGM Freezone?

The business set up in ADGM Freezone is a seamless process that is initiated through the ADGM Registration Authority.

To streamline the business support activities and serve the business community well, ADGM has the following departments:

1. Business Development

The Business Development team in ADGM provides an overview of the requirements for setting up your business. The application form and the supporting documents are to be submitted online through the ADGM portal

For any further assistance on company incorporation in ADGM, Aurion Business Consultants are here to guide you throughout the registration process. Visit us today!

2. Registration & incorporation

The Registration Authority is the department that initiates the incorporation of legal entities and the issue of commercial licenses. The submitted application form and other documents will be assessed by the specialists in the department. If the documentation is done right and business activity is not suspicious, the investor will be notified on the status and the next steps in company registration.

3. Monitoring & Enforcement

In ADGM, there is a governing body to conduct supervision, take disciplinary action whenever required and to ensure that the business entity adheres to the ADGMS commercial legislation policy and regulations.

4. Corporate Relations

This section takes care of the government related services such as immigration, VISA and medical examination of the investors. All business related legal paperwork, documentation, etc., are under the purview of the Corporate Relations team. The team ensures the processing of the documents is done right and provides support for business support queries.

5. Client Experience

The Client Experience team is to ensure the investors have a seamless business setup process in ADGM. Also, they are the main point of contact for any suggestions, feedback, complaints (if any) to be registered.

Aurion business Consultants are seasoned experts in providing assistance for all your business setup and allied services in ADGM. Our consultants will handhold you throughout the process of company registration, issuance of licensing, and also throughout your business operation too.

Reach out us for a free consultation right away!