United Arab Emirates
Company Formation in Abu Dhabi Mainland
Emirate of Abu Dhabi — Department of Economic Development (ADDED)
Overview
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and the wealthiest emirate, holding over 90% of the nation's oil and natural gas reserves and sovereign wealth funds exceeding $1.5 trillion USD (ADIA, Mubadala, ADQ). A mainland company registered with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) provides direct access to federal government procurement, state-owned enterprise tenders (ADNOC, Etihad, Masdar, EDGE Group), massive municipal infrastructure programs, and the entire UAE domestic consumer market. Under the Abu Dhabi Golden Framework, corporate setup costs have been reduced by over 90% in recent years, making ADDED trade licensing significantly more cost-effective than Dubai while delivering access to the nation's highest-spending public and private sectors.
Why Choose Abu Dhabi Mainland
UAE federal capital — exclusive direct access to government contracts, ADNOC, and sovereign wealth tenders
Over 90% reduction in government formation and renewal fees under Abu Dhabi competitiveness initiatives
100% foreign ownership across commercial, industrial, contracting, and professional sectors
Home to First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB)
Strategic industrial and logistics corridors connecting directly to Khalifa Port and KEZAD
9% federal corporate tax rate with 0% tax on net profits up to AED 375,000
10-year UAE Golden Visa programs supported by Abu Dhabi Residents Office (ADRO)
Hub71 technology and venture ecosystem offering multimillion-dollar subsidies for startups
Business Entity Types
| Entity | Ownership | Directors | Capital | Tax | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LLC | 100% | 1 | No minimum | 9% corporate tax; 0% on first AED 375,000 | Government contracting, industrial supply, energy services, technology, retail |
| Branch Office | 100% | 1 (Branch Manager) | None | 9% corporate tax on UAE branch income | International defense, engineering, and oilfield service companies |
| Sole Establishment | 100% for professional services | 1 | None | 9% corporate tax (Small Business Relief applies) | Solo consultants, technical experts, engineering advisors |
| Industrial Establishment | 100% | 1 | Determined by industrial scale | 9% corporate tax (customs exemptions on machinery) | Heavy manufacturing, petrochemical processing, food processing |
Step-by-Step Formation Process
Trade Name Reservation
1 dayReserve commercial trade name with ADDED via Tamm portal.
Initial Approval
1–2 daysObtain initial activity and security clearance approval.
MOA Execution
1–2 daysExecute electronic Memorandum of Association via Abu Dhabi Judicial Department.
Tawtheeq Lease Registration
1–2 daysSecure physical commercial office and register with Tawtheeq system.
ADDED License Issuance
1 dayIssue commercial trade license via Tamm platform.
Corporate Banking & Visas
2–3 weeksOpen corporate accounts with FAB or ADCB and process residency visas via ADRO.
Costs & Fees
| Government / License Fee | AED 10,000 – 22,000 |
| Our Service Fee | USD 5,000+ |
| Annual Renewal | AED 8,000 – 18,000 |
Fees are indicative and may vary based on business activity, entity type, and additional approvals required. Contact us for a precise custom quote.
Get Custom QuoteBanking
Abu Dhabi hosts First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the largest financial institution in the UAE, alongside ADCB and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB). Mainland licenses ensure smooth bank account opening.
Recommended Banks
Tax Overview
Abu Dhabi mainland companies are subject to UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022. All entities must register for corporate tax with the FTA and file annual returns. Small Business Relief is available for revenues up to AED 3M.
Visa & Residency
Investor Visa
2–3 yearsFor company partners and shareholders
Employee Visa
2–3 yearsFor sponsored staff under MOHRE
Abu Dhabi Golden Visa
10 yearsIssued through Abu Dhabi Residents Office (ADRO) for investors and entrepreneurs