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Company formation in Abu Dhabi Mainland
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The capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi is known for its world class infrastructure, investor friendly regulations and ease of business setup. Business formed in Abu Dhabi mainland can operate anywhere in the emirate and the rest of the UAE.
The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) regulates all the trade conducted on the Abu Dhabi mainland. It is ideal for businesses who wish to expand in the potential of the UAE market and gain access to a highly profitable and well connected region.
Dart offers expert company formation services in Abu Dhabi mainland backed by over 7 years of trade experience and reliable partnerships with relevant government resources.
Mainland companies in Abu Dhabi refer to onshore business entities that are licensed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). They can conduct business operations anywhere within the UAE and internationally with no restrictions. Abu Dhabi mainland entities can also bid for government contracts and enjoy 100% business ownership for majority activities.
Abu Dhabi is among the leading economic powerhouses of the Middle East. The UAE is known for its future forward trade regulations, liberal tax incentives, and unparalleled infrastructure. Its strategic location also makes it easily accessible via sea and air to over 20 countries of the MENA region, Europe and Central & south East Asia.
From setup and structure to scaling and strategy, Dart provides practical and holistic support across your business journey.
Mainland Companies formed in Abu Dhabi enjoy a range of advantages:
100% expat ownership of mainland business
Unrestricted trade across the UAE and internationally
Bid and secure government contracts and tenders
Engage in a wide range of commercial, industrial and professional activities
Flexibility of setting up physical office space in the emirate
Access to a modern trade infrastructure and tax-incentives
Better options to hire employees and form branches
Abu Dhabi Mainland vs Free Zones?
Abu Dhabi Mainland is ideal for companies that wish to invest long-term in the UAE and are seeking to expand and grow their operations. To tap into the local market, starting a mainland company in Abu Dhabi is the perfect choice.
Key Sectors for Abu Dhabi Mainland Business Setup:
Government Contractors
Retail Stores
General Trading
Logistics and Distribution
Import/Export
Construction
Real Estate
Professional Consultancies
Abu Dhabi Trader License
Issued electronically for specific commercial activities to UAE citizens and residents.
Dual License
This license allows free zone businesses in Abu Dhabi to trade and operate their business in the mainland areas.
Freelancer License
Lets investors practise economic activities remotely in specific fields. Removes the requirement for physical office space.
Mobdea License
Specially for female citizens of UAE. Provides a range of 44 activities and does not require physical office.
Small Producers License
For owners of private farms and agriculture and animal husbandry services.
Standard License
General trade license that covers all legal forms of business and follows the conventional process of business setup
Virtual License
Economic license for individuals residing outside of the UAE and wanting to start a company in Abu Dhabi mainland.
The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) is the issuing authority for all mainland licenses. The mainland company formation process is fairly standard and can be eased further with the assistance of experts like Dart.
Abu Dhabi Mainland Business Setup Process:
Step 1
Select Activity & Legal Structure
1 / 8 completed
Passport Copies of all shareholders and managers
Visa/Emirates ID of all applicants
Approved Trade Name Reservation Certificate
Initial Approval Certificate
Notarized Memorandum of Association
Tawtheeq and tenancy contract
Local Service Agent Agreement (LSA) if applicable
No Objection Certificate (if needed) from local sponsor or current employer
External Approvals (if required)
The cost of a mainland company in Abu Dhabi can range from AED 10,000* to AED 50,000* annually for standard licenses. The factors affecting cost are the activity type, legal structure, and office space requirements.
More complex legal structures and businesses can incur a higher expense. Additional costs can occur for external approvals, document notarization and visas. Our company formation experts at Dart offer tailored mainland packages at affordable prices, ensuring you can start your business up and running in no time.
Component
Estimated Cost
Companies in the Abu Dhabi mainland require a physical office space to obtain their trade license. This space must be according to the ADDED regulations and registered with the Abu Dhabi Municipality with a Tawtheeq (tenancy contract).
Office space requirements depend completely on the nature of business and number of employees that need to be hired. It can include conventional offices, services business centers or shared space/flexi desks.
Want modern office space solutions in UAE?
All mainland companies in Abu Dhabi are subject to 9% corporate tax on taxable income exceeding AED 375,000. This is calculated on the net profit declared financially. Regardless of the profit threshold, all businesses have to mandatorily register for Corporate Tax with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
5% Value Added Tax (VAT) applies on the majority of goods and services for mainland companies in Abu Dhabi. VAT registration is mandatory if the taxable turnover exceeds AED 375,000 and is voluntary if the taxable turnover exceeds AED 187,500. VAT remission occurs quarterly to the FTA.
Failure to comply with either Corporate Tax or VAT filings or registration can lead to severe fines. It is recommended to keep detailed financial records for at least seven years and employ the services of expert corporate tax and financial advisors in UAE.
Dart is a leader among company formation consultants in the UAE. We have over 7 years of experience with over 35,000 clients serviced. Our corporate advisors ensure compliance with ADDED regulations to ensure a hassle-free mainland business setup. No matter what activity you choose, we cover them all. Dart offers end-to-end company formation assistance from the initial consultation to getting your trade license in hand.
We also offer post-setup support in the form of tax registration and filing, office space solutions, banking assistance, visa issuance and more. No matter what your business requirements are, Dart strives to fulfill them all.
