Maria Zahid Documents Clearing Services

Abu Dhabi Mainland

Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is one of the most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish a long-term presence in the region. With its strong economy, stable governance, world-class infrastructure, and investor-friendly laws, Abu Dhabi Mainland offers a gateway to lucrative business opportunities across all sectors — from oil and gas to technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and services.

Mainland businesses in Abu Dhabi are licensed and regulated by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and allow investors to trade freely anywhere within the UAE and internationally.


🌟 Key Advantages of Setting Up a Business in Abu Dhabi Mainland

100% foreign ownership in most activities (no local sponsor required)
✔ Ability to trade across all Emirates and globally
✔ Access to government contracts and projects
✔ Stable economy supported by strong industrial and energy sectors
✔ Strategic location connecting the Middle East, Asia, and Africa
✔ No minimum capital requirement for most activities
✔ Unlimited visa eligibility (based on office space)
✔ Modern infrastructure, ports, and free mobility across emirates

Types of Licenses Issued in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Commercial License : For trading, retail, import/export, and e-commerce businesses.
Professional License : For service-based or consultancy activities.
Industrial License : For manufacturing and industrial production.
Tourism License : For travel, tourism, and hospitality activities.
Agricultural License : For farming and livestock businesses.

Specialized activities may require additional approvals from authorities such as the Department of Health (DOH), Environment Agency (EAD), or Civil Defense.
img 9074+b&w

Documents Required for Abu Dhabi Mainland Business Setup

✅ For Individual Shareholders

  • Passport copy (valid 6+ months)
  • Residence visa and Emirates ID (if applicable)
  • Recent passport-size photo (white background)
  • Entry stamp page (if not resident)
  • NOC from current sponsor (if UAE resident)

✅ For Corporate Shareholders

  • Trade license copy of parent company
  • Certificate of incorporation
  • Board resolution authorizing setup
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA)
  • Power of attorney for company representative

✅ Additional Documents

  • Trade name reservation certificate
  • Initial approval from ADDED
  • Tenancy contract or lease (office space)
  • Ejari (Tawtheeq) certificate
  • MOA attestation (if required)

Step-by-Step Procedure for Abu Dhabi Mainland Business Setup

  • Choose the Business Activity
    Select from over 3,000 business activities listed under ADDED.
  • Decide the Legal Structure
    Choose the entity type — LLC, Sole Establishment, Branch of Foreign Company, or Civil Company.
  • Reserve Trade Name
    Submit 3–5 preferred business names for approval by ADDED.
  • Obtain Initial Approval
    Get initial clearance confirming you may start the licensing process.
  • Prepare MOA (Memorandum of Association)
    Draft and notarize the MOA based on company structure and ownership.
  • Secure Office Space (Tawtheeq)
    Obtain a registered office space or business address in Abu Dhabi.
  • Submit Final Documents
    Submit all documents for final review and issuance of the Trade License.
  • Register with Relevant Authorities
    Complete registration with Chamber of Commerce, Labour Department, and Immigration Department.
  • Apply for Visas and Bank Account
    After license approval, proceed with investor and employee visa processing and open a corporate bank account.

💼 How MZ-DCS Supports Abu Dhabi Mainland Business Setup

At Maria Zahid Documents Clearing Services (MZ-DCS), we specialize in end-to-end company formation services that make the process efficient, compliant, and stress-free.

Our services include:

🔹 Business activity consultation and cost analysis
🔹 Trade name reservation and initial approval
🔹 Drafting and attesting MOA and other legal documents
🔹 Assistance in securing office space and Tawtheeq
🔹 Coordination with ADDED and other government departments
🔹 Labour & immigration registration
🔹 Visa processing for investors, partners, and employees
🔹 Corporate bank account setup assistance
🔹 License renewal and compliance management

With MZ-DCS, your business journey in Abu Dhabi becomes faster, smoother, and fully compliant.

Scroll to Top