Start your own business in UAE
Free Zones in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the federal capital of the United Arab Emirates and the largest of the 7 emirates, occupying more than 80% of the country’s total land. There are several free zones in Abu Dhabi, which offer a favourable environment for business setup in the Emirates and provide a gateway for foreign investors to tap its full potential.
Types of Legal Entities in Abu Dhabi Free Zone
A corporate or individual entity can register their venture in Abu Dhabi free zones, in any one of the following ways:
1. Free Zone Limited Liability Company
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is an independent legal entity, with individual shareholder(s), corporate shareholder(s), or a mixture of both. The minimum capital requirement depends on the type of business activity.
2. Branch of a Foreign Company
With the exception of foreign companies licensed to operate from a free zone in the UAE, a foreign company may carry on its main activity or business in the UAE or establish an office or branch after a license is issued by the Ministry of Economy and Commerce.
3. Branch of a UAE Company
A company set up in the UAE can also open a branch in free zones, mainland or offshore.
4. Freelance License
Freelancers are granted a freelance permit, which identifies them as a sole practitioner and enables him/her to conduct a business in one’s birth name, as opposed to a brand name.
List of Free Zones in Abu Dhabi
Most of the UAE emirates have set up free zones to boost the economy in the region, promote foreign investment, and drive growth. Free Zone Authority is the government body that registers and issues business licenses to non-resident companies in UAE free zone.
Abu Dhabi Airport Business City
Abu Dhabi Media Free Zone - (Media Zone Authority)