How to Get UAE ADGM Company Registration 2026 — Step-by-Step Guide
ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) is Abu Dhabi premier international financial centre. Here is the 2026 guide to ADGM company registration.
In this guide:
What Is ADGM?
- ADGM: Abu Dhabi Global Market; Abu Dhabi international financial free zone on Al Maryah Island
- Regulator: Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) — governs financial services; Registration Authority (RA) — governs non-financial companies
- Legal system: English common law; ADGM Courts are independent from UAE federal courts
- Best for: Investment managers, family offices, financial institutions, DIFC-alternative jurisdiction
ADGM Company Types
- Private Company Limited by Shares: Standard ADGM company structure
- Foundation: Unique Abu Dhabi structure for family wealth planning
- SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle): For specific transaction or asset holding purposes
ADGM Company Registration Process
- Reserve company name: Via ADGM online portal (adgm.com); ensure name is available
- Submit company registration application: Upload: shareholder passports/IDs, constitutional documents, business plan
- Pay ADGM registration fees: USD 2,000+ for standard private company
- ADGM RA reviews and approves (3-7 business days)
- Certificate of Incorporation issued
- Apply for commercial licence (if conducting business in ADGM)
- Obtain investor visa (if ADGM company; via Abu Dhabi immigration)
ADGM vs. DIFC: Key Differences
- ADGM: Abu Dhabi; FSRA regulator; Foundations available; stronger for sovereign wealth-adjacent businesses
- DIFC: Dubai; DFSA regulator; larger financial community; closer to major UAE banks
- Both: English common law; internationally recognized financial centres