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Company setup in ADGM (Al Maryah Island)

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is the capital's international financial centre on Al Maryah Island, with its own common-law framework and courts.

Dubai skyline

Doing business in ADGM (Al Maryah Island)

The zone sits beside Abu Dhabi's main shopping and business towers. Financial regulation sits with the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), separate from the registry that handles non-financial companies.

Asset managers, fintech firms, family offices, holding companies, advisers and law firms are typical, along with non-financial companies that value the legal framework.

What to know before you register

Who it suits

Funds, fintech, advisers and holding companies. Asset managers, fintech firms, family offices, holding companies, advisers and law firms are typical, along with non-financial companies that value the legal framework.

Licensing route

Regulated financial activities need FSRA approval before operating. Non-financial and holding structures register with the ADGM Registration Authority. We confirm the category first because costs and timelines differ.

Practical tip

If you plan a holding or family-office structure, tell us early. The right ADGM category affects substance, reporting and bank account steps.

Frequently asked questions

Is ADGM only for financial companies?

No. Regulated financial firms use it most, but non-financial and holding companies can also register, subject to the zone's rules.

Does ADGM use English common law?

Yes, ADGM applies English common law through its own courts. We explain what that means for your contracts.

How long does setting up in ADGM (Al Maryah Island) take?

The time depends on your activity, the approvals it needs and how quickly documents and premises are ready. After reviewing your plan we give a written timeline for ADGM (Al Maryah Island).

Ready to set up in ADGM (Al Maryah Island)?

Tell us your activity and plan. We reply with the recommended route, an itemised proposal and the next steps.