Abu Dhabi Mainland Company Formation

Yes, under current regulations, foreigners can now own 100% of their businesses in Abu Dhabi Mainland for most commercial and professional activities. This is a recent development aimed at attracting more foreign investment into the region. However, certain restricted sectors may still require local partnership.

SetupGulf is a professional business setup consultancy that specializes in helping entrepreneurs and businesses navigate the complexities of setting up a business across UAE. Since 2023, we've helped over 50+ entrepreneurs start their business journeys. We provide end-to-end support including company registration, licensing, PRO services, banking assistance, legal documentation, and visa processing.

For most business activities, you no longer need a local sponsor to set up a business in Abu Dhabi Mainland thanks to recent legal reforms allowing 100% foreign ownership. However, there are exceptions for certain restricted sectors, and alternative structures are available to minimize local involvement where required. Our consultants can guide you based on your specific business activity.

Yes, our business setup consultants in Abu Dhabi can help you choose the most suitable business activity and legal structure based on your requirements and objectives. We offer expert guidance and advice to ensure that your business is set up in the most efficient and cost-effective manner, considering factors like licensing costs, visa allocations, and operational flexibility.

The time required for Abu Dhabi mainland company formation can vary depending on various factors, including the type of business activity and legal structure, the completeness of documentation, and the efficiency of the registration process. On average, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. SetupGulf can help expedite the process and minimize delays by ensuring that all requirements are met, and documentation is in order.

Abu Dhabi offers several unique advantages including lower operating costs, more affordable office rents, government-backed incentives for various sectors, access to major government contracts and procurement opportunities, strong infrastructure, and commitment to sustainable development. The emirate also provides a stable business environment with full UAE market access.

Typically, you'll need notarized and attested passport copies of all shareholders and managers, proof of address, shareholder resolutions, Memorandum of Association (MOA), office lease agreement (Ejari), and various application forms. Our team will provide you with a complete checklist and handle all documentation requirements to ensure compliance with ADDED regulations.

Abu Dhabi mainland offers several types of licenses including Commercial License (for trading activities), Professional License (for service providers and consultants), Industrial License (for manufacturing), and Tourism License (for hospitality businesses). The appropriate license depends on your business activities, and our consultants will help you select the right one.

Yes, one of the major advantages of Abu Dhabi mainland company formation is that you can conduct business throughout the UAE without restrictions. You can also bid for government contracts, open branches in other emirates, and have full access to the local market, unlike free zone companies which have certain trading limitations.

Abu Dhabi mainland companies can open corporate bank accounts with major UAE banks including ADCB (Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank), FAB (First Abu Dhabi Bank), Mashreq, Emirates NBD, and various international banks operating in the UAE. Our banking assistance service helps you navigate the account opening process and meet KYC requirements efficiently.

The number of visas you can obtain depends on your office space size and business activity. Typically, smaller office setups allow for 2-3 visas, while larger commercial spaces can accommodate more employees. Visa quotas are tied to the square footage of your office space and can be expanded as your business grows.

Abu Dhabi mainland companies must renew their trade licenses biennially (every 2 years), maintain valid office lease agreements (Ejari), submit annual financial statements, and ensure visa renewals for employees. Certain business activities may require additional regulatory compliance. SetupGulf provides ongoing support to help you meet all compliance requirements seamlessly.