DED Abu Dhabi: Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland
Price Starting from
AED 14,910*
- 100% Foreign Ownership
- Repatriation of Capital and Profits
- No Minimal Capital Requried
- 2 Years Commercial License Validity
- Access to the UAE Market
Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland
About DED Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, a modern metropolis and the capital of the United Arab Emirates, has become a magnet for businesses, offering a vibrant environment powered by a strong economy and prime location.
Abu Dhabi allows companies to operate seamlessly within the local market, tapping into a diverse economic landscape that includes oil and gas, tourism, finance, and technology sectors.
Over time, Abu Dhabi has made remarkable progress in expanding its economy beyond oil, making it a top destination for local and international investors.
The Emirate's authorities directly govern Abu Dhabi Mainland. It's the epicenter of business in the region, where companies have the flexibility to operate both within the UAE and globally without restrictions.
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Benefits of DED Abu Dhabi License
Establishing a business under the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Abu Dhabi comes with a range of benefits that can greatly contribute to the success and growth of your company.
Below you will find the key advantages associated with a DED Abu Dhabi license, giving you a clearer picture of how these benefits can positively impact your business.
100% Company Ownership
Access to Trade With Other Mainland Authorities
Wide Range of Business Activities
Access to Government Contracts & Target Local Clients
Flexibility on Business Location in the UAE
No Currency or Nationality Restrictions
Legal Company Structure Options
Types of Business Structures in Abu Dhabi Mainland
Choosing the right business structure impacts liability, tax obligations, and operational control. These are the common business structures in Abu Dhabi Mainland:
A sole proprietorship is the most simple and straightforward option. This entity allows the owner complete control over business decisions and profits, making it ideal for small businesses and freelancers.
Advantages of Sole Proprietorship:
- Minimal regulatory requirements and easy setup.
- Direct control over all aspects of the business.
- Sole ownership of profits and liabilities.
In a limited partnership, some general partners manage the business, and limited partners contribute capital but do not participate in day-to-day operations. This structure is ideal for entrepreneurs interested in investment opportunities.
Advantages of Limited Partnership:
- Limited liability for limited partners.
- Flexibility in management and profit distribution.
- Attracts investors who prefer a passive role.
An LLC is a popular choice for many businesses in Abu Dhabi. It combines the benefits of a partnership with the limited liability protection of a corporation. This type of business structure limits the personal liability of its owners, protecting their assets from business debts.
Advantages of Limited Liability Company (LLC):
- Flexibility in management and operational structure.
- Suitable for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
- Safeguards Assets with limited liability shareholders.
For companies whose capital is divided into shares that can be publicly traded. This structure is suited for larger enterprises looking to raise capital through public offerings.
Advantages of Public Shareholding Company:
- Access to a larger pool of capital.
- Shares can be traded, enhancing liquidity.
- Greater visibility and credibility in the market.
This structure is ideal for businesses that prefer private ownership while still having the ability to raise capital, meaning company shares are not publicly traded and are typically owned by a small group of investors.
Advantages of a Private Shareholding Company:
- Greater control over share distribution and management.
- Ability to raise capital through private placements.
- Limited liability for shareholders.
Foreign companies can establish a branch office in Abu Dhabi, allowing them to conduct business as an extension of their parent company. This structure does not require a separate legal entity.
Advantages of a Foreign Branch Company:
- Simplified operational processes as it operates under the parent company's regulations.
- No capital investment is required to open a branch office in Abu Dhabi.
- No separate auditing and bookkeeping are necessary.
A joint venture involves two or more parties collaborating to undertake a specific business project. This structure allows businesses to share resources, risks, and profits with local equity participation in the joint venture at least 51%.
Advantages of a Joint Venture:
- Shared investment and reduced financial risk.
- Access to local market knowledge and expertise.
- Potential for innovation through collaboration.
Choosing the Right Business License
Abu Dhabi Mainland License Types
In Abu Dhabi, the type of business license required depends on the nature of the business activities. The main categories include:
For businesses engaged in trading activities, this allows for selling goods and services.
For service-oriented business industries such as consultancy, accounting, IT, or medical services.
For companies involved in manufacturing or industrial activities, permitting production and processing of goods.
Required Documents
Requirements for Abu Dhabi Mainland (DED)
When starting a business in DED Abu Dhabi Mainland, it is important to understand the documentation required for the registration process. By becoming familiar with these requirements, you can facilitate a smoother and more efficient business setup, helping you move closer to establishing your presence in Abu Dhabi Mainland.
Required Documents
Individual Shareholder
- Passport Copy
- Visa Copy
- Latest UAE entry stamp
- Emirates ID Copy (Front and Back)
- Passport Size Photos
- 3 Proposed Company Names (If Applicable)
Required Documents
Corporate Shareholder
- Company Hierarchy Diagram
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Certificate of Incumbency / Good standing
- Share Certificate / Share Registry Certificate
- Passports of the Directors and Shareholders
- Business Plan
- Memorandum of Association and/or Articles of Association
- Board Resolution
How to Set Up a Business in Abu Dhabi Mainland
Steps for Setting Up a Company in DED Abu Dhabi Mainland
Starting a business in the Abu Dhabi Mainland is a strategic move that opens the door to a wealth of opportunities in one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.