Abu Dhabi Global Markets Free Zone (ADGMFZ)

ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) is a common-law financial free zone on Al Maryah Island, regulated by the FSRA. It is a leading base for funds, fintech, wealth and asset management, family offices, holding companies, foundations and SPVs — and a growing hub for regulated crypto. Dubai Business Services sets up your ADGM entity and structures it correctly.

Why ADGM

• Independent English common-law framework and courts
• Strong for funds, fintech, wealth management, family office and holding structures
• Foundations and SPVs for asset protection and succession
• 100% foreign ownership, 0% personal income tax, respected global reputation
• Innovation and testing licences for early-stage fintech

What You Can Do

ADGM suits fund managers, fintech and wealthtech firms, family offices, holding companies and regulated financial businesses, as well as professional and commercial activities that value a common-law base. Regulated financial services require FSRA authorisation, which DBS helps you navigate.

Requirements & Documents

• Passport copies of shareholders, directors and manager
• Business plan and, for regulated activities, a regulatory application
• Registered office within ADGM
• Fit-and-proper evidence for regulated financial services

Cost — What Drives the Price

Costs depend on whether your activity is non-regulated (commercial, holding, SPV) or a regulated financial service, plus office, visas and capital requirements. Regulated firms carry FSRA fees and capital thresholds. DBS scopes your activity and gives a structured, itemised plan.

Process

1. Activity and structure review with DBS
2. Name reservation and application
3. Office and, if regulated, FSRA authorisation
4. Licence, establishment card and visas

Why DBS

DBS advises whether ADGM, DIFC or a mainland/free-zone route fits your financial or holding activity, prepares the application and any FSRA file, and processes your office, visas and banking.

Frequently Asked Questions

ADGM or DIFC? Both are common-law financial centres; DBS compares them for your activity, cost and regulator preference.

Can I set up a family office or foundation? Yes — ADGM foundations and SPVs are widely used for wealth and succession.

Do I need FSRA authorisation? Only for regulated financial services; commercial, holding and SPV activities do not.

Can a foreigner own it 100%? Yes, with 0% personal income tax.