Business Setup in Abu Dhabi

Start your business in Abu Dhabi, a thriving economic center and the capital of the UAE. With its strategic location, attractive business incentives, and world-class infrastructure, Abu Dhabi offers unmatched opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses alike. Let Equus Corporate guide you through the setup process to ensure your business thrives in Abu Dhabi.

Why Choose Abu Dhabi for Your Business?

A Hub for Growth and Innovation

Abu Dhabi is a booming business destination, known for its diversified economy, robust infrastructure, and commitment to innovation. Whether you are looking to enter the local market or expand globally, Abu Dhabi offers numerous advantages:

Strategic Location

Centrally located in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi provides excellent access to markets in Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Pro-Business Policies

Abu Dhabi offers tax incentives, 100% foreign ownership in free zones, and full repatriation of profits, making it an attractive destination for investors.

Diverse Economy

Navigating the UAE’s banking system can be tricky for newcomers. We help you avoid common issues, such as incorrect documentation or misunderstandings about banking regulations.

World-Class Infrastructure

Abu Dhabi boasts top-tier infrastructure with advanced logistics, transport, and communications systems, supporting business growth.

Sustainability and Innovation Focus

With initiatives like Masdar City and its focus on renewable energy, Abu Dhabi is leading the way in sustainable development and innovation.

Explore Abu Dhabi’s Free Zones

Maximize Your Business Potential in a Free Zone

Abu Dhabi is home to several free zones designed to attract international businesses with flexible regulations and tax incentives. Each free zone caters to different industries, offering tailored solutions for your business needs:

Benefits of Abu Dhabi Free Zones:

  • 100% foreign ownership
  • Zero personal taxes
  • Full repatriation of profits
  • No currency restrictions
  • Customizable office spaces

Choose the Right Business Structure

Tailored to Your Business Needs

Abu Dhabi offers several business structures to meet the needs of different industries and business models. Equus Corporate will help you choose the right structure to maximize your business opportunities:

Offshore Company

Designed for international business operations and asset protection, offshore companies in Abu Dhabi allow you to conduct global trade without the need for a physical presence in the UAE.

Mainland Company

Allows you to engage directly with the Abu Dhabi local market, benefiting from wider business opportunities and access to government contracts.

Free Zone Establishment (FZE)

Ideal for businesses seeking 100% foreign ownership with limited liability, offering a simplified setup and access to free zone benefits.

Free Zone Company (FZC)

Suitable for businesses with 2-5 shareholders, providing flexibility and collaborative ownership.

Branch Office

Extend your existing company’s reach into Abu Dhabi without additional capital requirements. Operate as a branch of your parent company.

Your Roadmap to Business Setup in Abu Dhabi

A Step-by-Step Guide with Equus Corporate

Consultation

We begin with an in-depth consultation to understand your business objectives and advise on the best structure and location for your business.

Business Activity Selection

Based on your industry and services, we help you select the appropriate business activities and licenses, ensuring full compliance with Abu Dhabi’s regulations.

Documentation Preparation

Our team manages all the necessary documentation, including notarization and attestation, ensuring everything is properly submitted to Abu Dhabi’s authorities.

Licensing and Approvals

We handle the licensing process, submitting applications to the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authorities to secure your business license.

Launch and Support

Once your business is established, we provide ongoing support, including visa processing, bank account setup, and administrative services to ensure smooth operations.

About Us

Expats Helping Expats Achieve Business Success

At Equus Corporate, we are expats helping expats navigate the complexities of business setup in the UAE. With firsthand experience of the challenges in establishing a business abroad, we offer tailored, professional services designed to meet your specific needs. Our team of experienced consultants provides personalized guidance through every stage, ensuring expert advice rooted in real-world experience.

We pride ourselves on our boutique, high-touch approach. At Equus Corporate, you work directly with seasoned professionals, giving your business the attention it deserves. Our goal is to build lasting partnerships, guiding you from company formation to ongoing support, so your business thrives in the UAE.

Our Services

Comprehensive Solutions Tailored to Your Needs

At Equus Corporate, we offer a full spectrum of business setup services to ensure a seamless process from start to finish. Our expert team takes care of all the technicalities, ensuring your business complies with Abu Dhabi’s regulations. From initial consultations to ongoing support, we’ll help your business thrive.

PRO & Government Liaison

Streamline visa processing, document clearing, and licensing with our efficient services.

Company Formation

Navigate the complexities of Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore company setups with ease.

Visa & Immigration Assistance

Secure employment, investor, and family visas without hassle.

Outsourced Compliance Officer & MLRO

Ensure regulatory and AML compliance with our dedicated Compliance Officer and Money Laundering Reporting Officer services.

Amendment Services

Manage corporate changes, from ownership and activity amendments to director updates, with ease and compliance.

Banking Assistance

Simplify corporate bank account opening with our established banking relationships.

Governance & Compliance

Protect your business with our governance consultancy, risk management, and regulatory compliance services.

Equity Management

Optimize your business’s equity structure with tailored cap table management, shareholder agreements, and compliance solutions.

Group Structuring & Restructuring Advice

Align your corporate structure with your strategic objectives for sustainable growth and operational efficiency.

Why Choose Equus Corporate?

Expertise You Can Trust

✔ Solutions for Every Stage of your Business

We offer comprehensive support through every stage of your journey from the setup of your business, through its growth, to strategic exits.

✔ Regional Expertise

Our executive team has more than 40 years of experience operating in the region, providing our clients with relevant solutions.

✔ Dedicated In-House Legal Team

Equus Corporate stands apart with dedicated in-house legal advisors, ensuring compliance with all local regulations and industry best practices.

Testimonials

Hear from our satisfied clients

Got Questions About Abu Dhabi Business Setup?

We're Here to Help

Abu Dhabi offers tax incentives, 100% foreign ownership in free zones, and access to global markets.

Depending on the business structure, the process can take between 7 to 14 working days.

Free zone companies typically cannot operate directly within the mainland market but can trade internationally. Mainland companies allow for full UAE market access.

A local sponsor is required for mainland companies, but not for free zone or offshore entities.

Some free zones and mainland companies require annual audits, which we can assist with based on your business structure.