ADGMCOMPANY
ADGM is an international financial centre and free zone in Abu Dhabi. It has its own legal framework based on English common law, its own registration authority, its own courts and a separate regulator for financial services. For many investors and international groups, that familiar legal system is the main reason to choose it.
Draft text — under review by Milton Bridge
Milton Bridge helps you decide whether ADGM is the right home for your company, or whether another free zone or the mainland fits better. If ADGM is right, we prepare and file the documents, arrange the registered office and support you through visas and the bank account.
Why set up a company in ADGM
ADGM is often chosen when the legal framework matters as much as the licence. Investors, banks and counterparties who know common law tend to find ADGM documents and courts easy to understand.
- Common-law-based legal framework and independent courts.
- Own registrar and company law, with a range of entity types.
- Suitable for holding, investment, family office and professional services structures.
- Separate regulatory regime for financial services that need authorisation.
Types of ADGM entity
ADGM offers several types of entity. Which one fits depends on what the company will do, who owns it and whether it needs regulation.
- Private company limited by shares — for operating and holding businesses.
- Special purpose vehicles and holding structures — for holding assets or shares, subject to eligibility.
- Foundations — often considered for family wealth and succession planning.
- Branches of foreign companies.
- Regulated entities — for financial services that need authorisation from the regulator.
Non-regulated vs regulated activities in ADGM
Many ADGM companies carry out non-financial or holding activities and only need registration with the registrar. Companies that provide financial services, such as asset management or advisory, typically also need authorisation from the financial services regulator, which involves a separate and more detailed process.
We help with the registration side and coordinate with licensed advisers where regulatory authorisation is needed. We do not provide regulated financial or legal advice ourselves.
ADGM or DIFC: choosing between the two financial free zones
ADGM in Abu Dhabi and DIFC in Dubai are both financial free zones with common-law-based legal frameworks. The right choice often depends on where your team, investors and banks are, your activity, and the entity types and costs that fit your plan.
We compare both, and other free zones, for your case at a free expert consultation.
How it works with Milton Bridge
- 1
Free consultation
On WhatsApp or a call you tell us what the company will do and who owns it. We confirm whether ADGM fits and which entity type to use.
- 2
Structure and documents
We propose the structure and prepare the incorporation documents and due diligence file. Our couriers collect signed originals where needed.
- 3
Registration
We file with the ADGM registrar, arrange the registered office and follow the application through to incorporation.
- 4
Visas and bank account
Where the company holds visas, we handle them. We help you prepare a clear file for the corporate bank account.
- 5
Ongoing compliance
We set up annual filings, accounting and corporate tax registration so the company stays in good standing.
ADGM Company Setup: frequently asked questions
What is ADGM?
ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) is an international financial centre and free zone in Abu Dhabi. It has its own common-law-based legal framework, registrar and courts. It is often used for holding, investment and financial services companies.
Who should set up a company in ADGM?
ADGM usually suits holding companies, family offices, investment structures, financial services firms and international businesses that want a common-law framework. If you mainly trade with local customers, a mainland company may fit better. We compare the options for your case.
Can a foreigner own an ADGM company?
Yes, ADGM companies can typically be fully foreign-owned. Shareholders and directors usually need to pass due diligence. We prepare the file for you.
Do I need an office in ADGM?
You typically need a registered address in ADGM, and the office requirement depends on the entity type and activity. Some holding structures have lighter requirements than operating companies. We confirm what applies to you.
Do I need a licence from the regulator to set up in ADGM?
Only if you carry out regulated financial services. Non-financial and holding activities usually need only registration with the registrar. Regulated activities need separate authorisation, and we coordinate with licensed advisers for that part.
Can an ADGM company sponsor residence visas?
Yes, depending on the entity type and office solution, an ADGM company can typically sponsor residence visas. Some holding entities may not be eligible. We check this before you choose the structure.
Does an ADGM company pay UAE corporate tax?
It depends on its income and structure. UAE corporate tax applies generally at 9% above a threshold, and qualifying income of a qualifying free zone person may be taxed at 0%. Review your structure with a tax adviser; we help register and keep the company compliant.
How much does it cost to set up a company in ADGM?
The cost depends on the entity type, activity, office solution and number of visas. Use the cost calculator for an estimate or book a free expert consultation for an exact quote.
