Setting up a business on the Abu Dhabi mainland (as opposed to an Abu Dhabi free zone) requires a trade licence from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and is managed through the TAMM digital services platform. Here is a complete guide.
Abu Dhabi Mainland vs. Free Zone
Mainland Abu Dhabi: can sell directly to UAE government entities (a major advantage given Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth and ADNOC ecosystem), can operate anywhere in the UAE, and requires a UAE national partner (Emirati partner holding minimum 51% for commercial licences, or a UAE national as an individual sponsor for professional licences). Free zone: 100% foreign ownership, but restricted from direct UAE mainland government sales without a commercial agent.
Abu Dhabi Commercial Licence (LLC)
For commercial activities (trading, import/export, general business): minimum 51% Emirati shareholder in the LLC, commercial activity list from ADDED, minimum share capital AED 75,000–150,000 (varies by activity), trade licence issued by ADDED (TAMM portal: tamm.abudhabi). The Emirati sponsor (“service agent”) typically does not participate in business operations but receives an annual fee (AED 5,000–30,000/year depending on negotiation) in exchange for holding 51% of shares.
Abu Dhabi Professional Licence
For professional services (consulting, IT, design, legal): 100% foreign ownership is permitted for professional licences. No Emirati partner required. Annual fee: AED 3,500–8,000 depending on the activity. Licenced activities include: management consulting, software development, accounting and auditing, legal services, and engineering and architectural services. Professional licence holders can bid for Abu Dhabi government tenders with the professional licence (a significant advantage for service firms targeting ADNOC, Abu Dhabi DOH, ADOA, or Abu Dhabi DTC contracts).