Start Your Business Journey with DXB-VIP

Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is one of the most attractive destinations for business setup, offering a stable economy, investor-friendly regulations, and strong government support. Mainland company formation allows businesses to operate freely across the UAE market with greater flexibility and growth potential. With Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 driving economic diversification, the emirate continues to create excellent opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors. Connect with us today to get started!

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Benefits of setting up a business
in Abu Dhabi Mainland

 

 
  • 100% foreign ownership
  • 100% of profits and capital repatriation
  • Low corporate taxes 
  • Business-friendly environment 
  • Ease of business setup
  • Stunning infrastructure
  • High quality of life
Abu Dhabi Mainland

Our Business Setup Services in the UAE

How to set up a company in Abu Dhabi Mainland?

Step 1 - Choose your business activity

The first step is to decide your the business activities you must operate.

Step 2 - Trade Name Reservation

Choose three unique names and get approved one for your business.

Step 3 - Gather all the documentation

This step is to gather the required documents and submit them to the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development to get approval.

Step 4 - Physical Office Requirements

Typically, mainland businesses in Abu Dhabi are required to register the office space.

Step 5 - Obtain Trade License

After getting approval from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development.

Document Checklist for Setting Up a Business in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Memorandum of Association (MOA) / Articles of Association (AOA)

Passport for all shareholders

No Objection Certificate (NOC)

Attested Tenancy Contract

Board Resolution

Proof of address and proof of funds 

Why Choose DXB-VIP?

Abu Dhabi serves as your gateway to exceptional opportunities across the UAE:

 

  • Strategic Location: Contact DXB-VIP to Access MENA and global markets with ease.
  • Pro-Business Policies: Benefit from streamlined regulations and government support.
  • Robust Infrastructure: State-of-the-art transport, energy, and communication networks.
  • Diverse, Skilled Workforce: Attract talent from around the world.
 
Dubai Mainland

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Setting up a business in Abu Dhabi provides many significant advantages, such as you get a tax-free environment for your businesses. You also get an opportunity for full foreign ownership in many sectors. Additionally, Abu Dhabi also provides a very good location between Europe, Asia, and Africa so people from these regions can easily set up their businesses here, along with excellent infrastructure and government support. These factors make it a good option for UK investors and entrepreneurs.

Following are the business activities that thrive here in Abu Dhabi:

  • Real estate and construction
  • Tourism and hospitality
  • Financial services
  • Renewable energy
  • Professional services (e.g., legal, consulting, marketing)

Entrepreneurs have several business structures to choose from when starting a business in Abu Dhabi, including:

  • Limited Liability Company (LLC)
  • Free Zone Company
  • Branch Office
  • Sole Establishment
The cost of setting up a business can vary depending on the type of business and location you choose to start a business. You can start Free zone companies from AED 10,000 to AED 30,000, and mainland businesses may require AED 50,000 or more. Additional costs include office rent, licensing fees, and visa expenses, which can all affect the total budget.

Setting up a business involves the following key steps:

  • Choose your business activity and legal structure.
  • Reserve a trade name and apply for initial approval.
  • Register the company with the relevant authorities.
  • Obtain necessary licenses and permits.
  • Secure office space and process visas.
  • Once all these steps are complete, you can start operations legally.
The setup process can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the business structure and sector. Free zone companies are often quicker to set up, while mainland businesses may require more time due to additional approvals and registrations.
Yes, you can own 100% of your business in many free zones, as well as certain sectors on the mainland. Abu Dhabi has relaxed ownership rules in recent years, allowing full foreign ownership in various industries, particularly in free zones and select strategic sectors.

UK citizens need a UAE residency visa to live and work in Abu Dhabi. This can be obtained through:

  • Sponsorship by the business you establish
  • Sponsorship through a free zone authority

Once you receive your visa, you are permitted to live in the UAE and manage your business legally.

DXB VIP provides a complete range of services for UK clients, including:

  • Company formation and registration
  • Legal documentation and approvals
  • Securing business licenses and permits
  • Visa processing and office setup assistance

With local expertise, DXB VIP helps clients navigate the legal and regulatory landscape in Abu Dhabi, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup process.

Abu Dhabi offers generous tax benefits, including 0% corporate and personal income tax in many sectors. There is also no value-added tax (VAT) for most business activities, making it highly tax-efficient for UK investors. Additionally, free zones provide further tax exemptions, making them an attractive option for foreign investors.