Full Foreign Ownership
Companies can be 100% foreign owned, with no local partner required across qualifying mainland and free zone structures.
Start a Business in
Abu Dhabi's Innovation Zone
Form a company in Masdar City Innovation Zone, Abu Dhabi's free zone for R&D-driven and technology-led businesses.
Make an enquiryWhy Choose Abu Dhabi?
Business setup in Abu Dhabi offers full foreign ownership, 0% personal tax, and infrastructure built around specific industries.
Profit Repatriation
There is no restriction on repatriating profits or capital out of the UAE, in any currency and in any amount.
Tax Benefits
Benefit from 0% personal income tax and qualifying free-zone corporate tax advantages, subject to UAE regulations.
Energy, Tech, & Logistics
Modern power, port, data-centre and industrial infrastructure supports ambitious technology-led companies.
Global Connectivity
Abu Dhabi connects businesses to major markets across Europe, Asia and Africa.
Specialized Sector Hubs
Purpose-built clusters bring together regulators, researchers, talent, investors and global companies.
Explore Abu Dhabi's
Major Industry Sectors
Abu Dhabi's economy is organised around focused industry clusters with dedicated infrastructure, capital and regulation.
Energy and Petrochemicals
Advanced energy, clean fuels and industrial innovation.
Clean Energy & Utilities
Renewables, utilities and sustainable infrastructure.
Manufacturing & Industrial Production
Advanced manufacturing and industrial technology.
Financial Services & Asset Management
Fintech, investment and professional services.
Smart Mobility, Aerospace & Defense
Next-generation mobility and aerospace systems.
AgriTech & Food Security
Technology supporting resilient food systems.
Life Sciences, Healthcare & BioTech
Research-led health and biotechnology ventures.
Culture, Tourism & Entertainment
Creative, media and experience-led businesses.
Business Jurisdictions in Abu Dhabi
Where a company is registered determines its ownership structure, tax position and where it can operate.
Mainland
Operate across the UAE market and contract directly with government and private-sector entities.
Free Zones
Access full ownership, streamlined incorporation and an ecosystem designed around focused industries.
Business License
Types
Every company in Abu Dhabi operates under a license tied to its specific business activity, and the license type determines what it's legally permitted to do.
Innovation License
Engineered for pioneers scaling R&D, AI, and deep-tech solutions.
Commercial License
Covers trading activities, including buying, selling, and distributing goods.
Professional License
Covers service-based businesses and skilled professions.
Industrial License
Applies to manufacturing, processing, or production activities.
Freelancer License
Allows an individual to work independently without forming a company.
Tajer License
Run a home-based or e-commerce business without a physical office for the first three years.
Launch Your Business in Abu Dhabi
Build your company in an ecosystem engineered for innovation.
Start your applicationSet Up a Company in Abu Dhabi
Four main steps take you from initial approval to opening a corporate bank account.
Initial Approval
Choose your activity, legal structure and company name, then secure initial approval.
Trade License
Submit incorporation documents and obtain the licence for your approved activities.
Residency Visa
Complete establishment-card, medical and Emirates ID procedures for eligible visas.
Bank Account
Open a UAE corporate account using your licence and incorporation documents.
Why Choose Masdar City Innovation Zone
Masdar City is built for R&D, deep tech and innovation-led businesses. It offers a streamlined setup process and access to a global network of partners.
Innovation-First Licensing
Licence categories designed around R&D, IP commercialisation and technology-led business models.
Fast-Track Incorporation
One point of contact manages documentation, licensing and workspace allocation.
Ecosystem Access
Connect with government partners, research institutions, global corporations and investors.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Labs, co-working and dedicated offices inside Abu Dhabi's sustainable urban testbed.
Start a Business in Abu Dhabi's Innovation Launchpad
Tell us what you're building. Our experts will match you to the right licence and get you started.
Get in Touch
Tell us what we can help you with.