International Financial Centre · Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Company Formation
Establish your business in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), an international financial centre offering an independent legal system, globally recognised regulation, and specialised corporate structures for financial institutions, investment firms, family offices, holding companies, fintech businesses, and professional service providers.
A globally recognized financial center built for international business.
Independent Legal System
100% Foreign Ownership
International Financial Centre
Global Corporate Structures
About Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is the international financial center of Abu Dhabi, located on Al Maryah Island. Established in 2015, ADGM was created to strengthen Abu Dhabi's position as a global financial and investment hub by providing an internationally recognized legal and regulatory environment for businesses operating across financial services, professional services, investment management, private wealth, and corporate structuring. Unlike conventional UAE free zones, ADGM operates under its own independent legal framework based directly on English Common Law. It has three independent authorities: the Registration Authority (RA), the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), and the ADGM Courts. This internationally recognised governance model provides businesses and investors with legal certainty, regulatory transparency, and an efficient dispute resolution framework. Today, ADGM is home to multinational corporations, private equity firms, venture capital funds, hedge funds, banks, asset managers, family offices, fintech companies, legal practices, accounting firms, and holding companies serving clients across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and global markets. At The Corporate Bridge, we guide clients through every stage of ADGM company formation, from selecting the appropriate legal structure and regulatory pathway to incorporation, immigration support, and ongoing corporate compliance.
Why Choose Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)?
- International financial center recognized worldwide
- Independent legal framework based on English Common Law
- Home to one of the region's largest financial ecosystems
- Regulated financial services environment through the FSRA
- Flexible corporate structures for international investors
- Attractive jurisdiction for family offices and private wealth
- Premium commercial business environment on Al Maryah Island
Business Activities
ADGM supports a broad range of regulated and non-regulated activities, including investment management, financial advisory, wealth management, banking, insurance, fintech, venture capital, private equity, holding companies, professional consulting, legal services, accounting, trust services, foundations, and corporate headquarters. Certain financial activities require authorization from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA).
Business Activities List
Full list of approved activities
Enter your details to receive the list instantly.
License Types
Private Company Limited by Shares (Ltd)
The most common corporate structure for businesses establishing commercial or professional operations within ADGM.
Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV)
Designed for holding assets, structured finance transactions, intellectual property ownership, investment holding, securitization, and project finance.
Foundation
A legal structure commonly used for succession planning, family wealth preservation, charitable purposes, and long-term asset protection.
Branch Office
Allows an existing foreign or UAE company to establish a registered branch within ADGM, subject to Registration Authority requirements.
Required Documents
- Passport copy of each shareholder
- Passport-size photograph
- Proposed company name
- Business activity details
- Emirates ID and UAE visa copy (if applicable)
Setup Process in 5 Steps
Business Consultation
Trade Name & Initial Approval
Document Preparation
Licence Processing & Registration
Immigration & Visa Services
FAQs
ADGM is an international financial center with its own independent legal framework, Registration Authority, Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), and courts. Unlike standard free zones, it is designed primarily for financial institutions, investment structures, professional services firms, and international businesses seeking a globally recognized jurisdiction.
Need Help? Contact Us
Disclaimer: All prices shown are indicative starting estimates and may vary depending on the selected business activity, jurisdiction, authority fees, visa quota, office requirements, and government charges applicable at the time of application. Final quotations are shared after a consultation and are subject to change without prior notice.