ADGM
what does ADGM stand for
ADGM stands for Abu Dhabi Global Market, which is a leading, award-winning, International Financial Centre. it operates across Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island, with an area of 14.38 million sqm, making it one of the largest financial districts in the world.
and it aims to attract a diverse range of businesses such as financial institutions, asset management, fintech, corporations, and professional services firms. It offers a full package of business services, covering everything from setting up companies and handling legal structures to advising on regulations, resolving disputes, and connecting you with a network of professionals who share your goals.
when was ADGM established
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) was established in 2013 and became fully operational in October 2015. it’s widely recognized worldwide for its strong and forward-thinking regulations, its use of English common law, and its top-notch business setup services. By encouraging collaboration and tailoring its approach to meet the needs of its diverse community, ADGM has led the way with groundbreaking initiatives, setting trends both locally and globally.
abu dhabi global market adgm free zone
The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is a financial-free zone located in the center of Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island, which serves as the city’s financial hub. With its own set of civil and commercial laws, as we’ve mentioned Abu Dhabi Global Market was established in 2013 by a Federal Decree. It plays a vital role in Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision, driving the development of a vibrant financial services sector in the UAE.
Authorities in Abu Dhabi Global Market ADGM
Abu Dhabi Global Market is controlled by three independent authorities, and they are as follows:
- The Registration Authority (RA)
They are the authority responsible for registering businesses in ADGM on Al Maryah Island and issuing licenses. Their main services include business name registration, managing post-incorporation documents, and updating any changes in directors, officers, shareholders, or share capital.
- Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA)
The FSRA oversees financial services like banking within Abu Dhabi Global Market by setting clear guidelines. Its primary aim is to protect financial businesses from fraud, risks, and negative impacts. It also tackles regulatory issues and manages the application process for financial firms operating in the Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone.
- ADGM Courts
As the name implies, ADGM courts handle disputes between entities within the Abu Dhabi Global Market. It’s the first jurisdiction to adopt English Common Law directly, making it attractive and investor-friendly for foreign businesses.
- ADGM Authority
The ADGM Authority is key to Abu Dhabi Global Market’s growth, using global financial trends to stay ahead. It combines the strategic and support roles of the International Financial Centre (IFC), focusing on improving services, creating opportunities, and helping its community grow and thrive.
What are the benefits of ADGM
Abu Dhabi serves as an ideal gateway to the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, offering top-tier infrastructure and connectivity across four time zones. Known as one of the best cities to live, work, invest, and do business, it stands out as a global business hub. With pro-business policies and regulatory reforms, Abu Dhabi provides a stable economy that fosters long-term growth for private sector companies. and from this benefits we mention:
- Tax-friendly environment.
Businesses registered at ADGM benefit from full ownership, zero corporate and income taxes, no withholding taxes, and complete freedom to repatriate profits without restrictions.
- English Common Law.
Abu Dhabi Global Market operates under an independent legal jurisdiction with its own civil and commercial laws, directly applying English Common Law. ADGM Courts offer both digital and in-person hearings, supported by strong cross-border collaboration.
- Setting Up Made Easy.
ADGM meets the needs of various business types and industries, allowing entities to set up and register for a commercial license through a fully digital process. The IFC also offers flexible solutions for structuring asset holdings and investments via special-purpose vehicles. Additionally, Abu Dhabi Global Market provides UAE Golden Visas, granting up to 10 years of residency.
- Political and Economic Security.
Abu Dhabi was ranked the most livable city in the Middle East and North Africa and named the safest city in the world for the fifth consecutive year in 2021. The UAE also leads the way in promoting Sustainable Finance, hosting the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) in 2023.
- A World-Class Lifestyle Destination.
Abu Dhabi residents enjoy an exceptional quality of life, enriched by a vibrant culture, world-class healthcare, and a variety of excellent schools. The city is also home to top-ranked institutions like NYU, Brighton College, Cranleigh, and Sorbonne, offering outstanding educational opportunities.
Business Areas in ADGM
Financial Businesses
- Banking and Money Services.
- Capital Markets.
- Wealth and Asset Management.
- FinTech.
- Digital Assets.
Non-Financial Businesses
- Corporate.
- Other Non-Financial.
Special Purpose Vehicles (SPV)
ADGM offers highly flexible solutions for structuring asset holdings and investments through Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs). SPVs are passive holding companies created to isolate financial and legal risks by ring-fencing specific assets and liabilities. The SPV framework at ADGM is designed to be flexible, robust, simple, and efficient, matching global best practices. We provide a fast, user-friendly, fully digital registration process, with clear reporting requirements and transparent pricing.
Retail
ADGM is a lively business and lifestyle hub, offering luxury retail, fine dining, premium hospitality, and world-class healthcare. With a mix of high-end boutiques, global brands, and diverse dining options. ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to family-friendly spots. it provides venues for every occasion. Setting up a retail presence at ADGM is quick and straightforward through the ADGM Registration Authority, an independent body responsible for licensing and registering all entities within the center.
Setting up a company in ADGM
Here is the process of setting up a company in Abu Dhabi Global Market:
- Select the nature of your business.
- Select the legal structure of your business.
- Check that your proposed name is available for use.
- Identify your office space and register your lease.
- Documents and Information to support your application.
- Information resources, downloadable application checklists.
- Getting Visa.
Conclusion
Thus we have come to know the most important points about Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), and we have also illustrated when was ADGM established, it’s free zone, What is it’s benefits, Authorities and Business Areas in Abu Dhabi Global Market, and how to Set up a company in ADGM.
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