Setting Up in ADGM
Abu Dhabi Global Market
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is an international financial centre on Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi. Operating under English common law with its own independent courts, ADGM offers a world-class regulatory environment attracting businesses from startups and SMEs to multinationals and sovereign wealth funds.
Non-Regulated vs Regulated
ADGM accommodates two broad categories — Non-Regulated entities for general commercial activities, and Regulated entities licensed by the FSRA for financial services.
| Feature | Non-Regulated | Regulated |
|---|---|---|
| Regulator | ADGM Registration Authority | ADGM FSRA |
| Licence Type | Commercial / Holding / SPV | Financial Services Permission (FSP) |
| Capital Required | None (general) | USD 10K – 5M+ (varies by activity) |
| Typical Uses | Trading, Consulting, Holding, Tech | Asset Mgmt, Brokerage, Banking, Fintech |
| Setup Timeline | 2–4 weeks | 3–6 months (with FSRA review) |
| Annual Fee | From USD 1,500 | From USD 5,000 + FSRA levy |
| Physical Office | Flexi-desk accepted | Full office recommended |
ADGM Non-Regulated
Company Setup
Non-regulated entities are ideal for businesses conducting general trading, consulting, holding, professional services, or technology activities that do not require a financial services licence.
ADGM Regulated Company Setup
Regulated entities require a Financial Services Permission (FSP) from the ADGM FSRA. ADGM's framework is aligned with international standards — IOSCO, FATF, and Basel — making it globally respected.