Why Choose Abu Dhabi Mainland?
Here’s why Abu Dhabi Mainland is the ideal choice for your business setup:
Operate across the UAE with wide market access.
Access government projects and big contracts.
Enjoy flexible office locations for convenience and strategy.
Connect to global trade via key ports and markets.
Abu Dhabi Mainland – An Overview
Abu Dhabi is a prime location for entrepreneurs seeking flexibility and full market access across the UAE. Mainland business setup in Abu Dhabi is regulated by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), allowing businesses to operate without geographic limitations. Many sectors now permit 100% foreign ownership, eliminating the need for a local sponsor. Companies in the mainland can bid for government contracts, open offices anywhere in Abu Dhabi, and enjoy streamlined licensing procedures. With access to major ports, airports, and regional trade routes, Abu Dhabi mainland offers a strategic base for business growth in the GCC and beyond, supported by a strong legal framework.
Business Licenses Offered by Abu Dhabi Mainland
The following types of licenses are issued by ADDED for various business activities:
Commercial License
For businesses engaged in trading activities, including import, export, wholesale, and retail of goods and commodities.
Industrial License
For entities involved in manufacturing, production, and processing activities, such as textile production and packaging.
Professional License
For service-oriented businesses, including consultancy, legal, educational, and other professional services.
Big Business Dreams?
Abu Dhabi Mainland Gets You There Faster!
Abu Dhabi Mainland Workspace Options
Flexible workspace solutions for every business need.
Dedicated Office
A private office exclusively for your business, ensuring privacy and full control. Perfect for companies seeking a permanent, dedicated space.
Rental Cabin
A compact, enclosed workspace available for short-term rental, offering flexibility and privacy. Ideal for businesses needing temporary office space.
Virtual Office
Provides a professional business address and communication services without the need for a physical office. Perfect for businesses operating remotely.
Co-working Space
A shared workspace offering flexible seating arrangements, ensuring collaboration. Ideal for freelancers, startups, or teams looking for an affordable office solution.
How it Works?
Your Abu Dhabi mainland company setup unfolds in 3 simple steps:
Get a Quote
Speak with our team to choose the ideal business activity and structure.
Register Your Business
We handle all the required approvals and documentation for you.
Start Operating
Once your license is issued, you’re all set to launch.
Abu Dhabi Mainland Company Setup Process
Setting up a business in Abu Dhabi Mainland involves several key steps under the authority of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). Here’s how the process typically works:
1. Trade Name Reservation
Reserve a unique trade name with ADDED that follows all rules—must include legal form (like “LLC”) and avoid restricted or religious terms.
2. Initial Approval
Get initial or pre-approval from ADDED, confirming no objections. Some business types may also need extra approvals at this stage.
3. Drafting the Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Prepare the MOA based on your company’s legal structure. It must be notarized and attested according to ADDED’s regulations.
4. Securing Office Space or Business Location
Rent office space and register the tenancy contract with the Abu Dhabi Land Department; this is mandatory for license issuance.
5. Obtaining External Approvals (If Required)
If your activity falls under special sectors (e.g., legal, medical, engineering), secure approvals from authorities like the Ministry of Justice or the Department of Health.
6. Business License Issuance
Submit all required documents to ADDED, including the Trade Name Certificate, Initial Approval Confirmation, Registered Tenancy Contract, and Attested MOA. Also, ensure any additional external approvals, if applicable.
Note: The process may vary depending on your business activity and regulatory requirements.
Abu Dhabi Mainland UAE Visa Process
Once your business license is issued, you can begin the visa application process—only if your chosen package includes visa allocation.
Step 1: Apply for the Establishment Card
Start by applying for your company’s establishment card—this document is mandatory for initiating any visa-related formalities.
Step 2: E-Channel Registration
All Emirates except Dubai require companies to register for e-channel services. This is a one-time process that streamlines visa and immigration services.
Step 3: Submit E-Visa Application
Once e-channel registration is complete, you can apply for the e-visa by submitting the following documents:
- Passport copy
- Business license
- Current visa or cancellation document (if applicable)
- Company establishment card
- Passport-sized photo (white background)
Step 4: Change of Status
After the e-visa is issued, you may enter the UAE using the e-visa if you are outside the country and then apply for a status change. If you are already in the UAE, simply file for a change of status locally.
Following the change of status, you must complete your medical test and apply for your Emirates ID within 30 calendar days.
Documents required for the medical test:
- Original passport
- Business license
- Establishment card
- Copy of status change confirmation
- Copy of e-visa
- Passport-sized photos
Step 5: Emirates ID Application
UAE no longer stamps residency visas in passports—your Emirates ID now serves as your official proof of residency.
Documents required for Emirates ID application:
- Passport
- Passport-sized photos
- E-visa
- Change of status confirmation
- Company’s business license
- Company’s establishment card
- Emirates ID application form
- Stamped medical test results
- Health insurance (mandatory in certain Emirates)
Step 6: Emirates ID Issuance
After completing the biometric process, your Emirates ID will be issued within 10 working days.
Documents Required from Shareholder(s)
To initiate the mainland company setup process in Abu Dhabi, shareholders are required to submit the following documents:
Submit the Following Required Documents to Complete your Business Setup:
- Passport copy
- UAE visa copy or the latest UAE entry stamp (if applicable)
- Passport-size photo (required for certain business activities)
- Any additional documents depending on the specific business activity or external approvals needed
Our Banking Partners
We work closely with the following banks for opening bank accounts for our clients
