Business Licensing in Abu Dhabi

Starting and operating a business in Abu Dhabi requires understanding the licensing requirements and procedures. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure your business is compliant with local regulations.

Aerial view of Abu Dhabi's modern business district with skyscrapers and the Corniche

Types of Business Licenses

Abu Dhabi offers various types of business licenses depending on the nature of your business activities:

Commercial License
Professional License
Industrial License
Tourism License
Agricultural License

Licensing Procedure

Choose a Business Structure: Decide on the legal form of your business (LLC, Sole Proprietorship, Branch, etc.).
Select a Trade Name: Register a unique trade name for your business.
Initial Approval: Obtain initial approval from the Bureau of Economic Development.
Location Approval: Secure approval for your business location.
Documentation: Prepare and submit all required documents.
Pay Fees: Pay the necessary licensing fees.
Receive License: Collect your business license.

A modern office interior in Abu Dhabi with businesspeople discussing licensing documents

Required Documents

Typical documents needed for business licensing include:

Passport copies of shareholders
Emirates ID (for UAE nationals and residents)
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current sponsor (for expatriates)
Tenancy contract for business premises
Bank reference letter
Business plan (for certain activities)

Fees and Timeline

Licensing fees vary depending on the type of license, business activity, and location. The process typically takes 2-4 weeks, but can be expedited through premium options.

TAMM Offerings

TAMM, the Abu Dhabi Regulatory body Offerings platform, offers a streamlined process for business licensing. Through TAMM, you can complete many of the licensing steps digitally, saving time and effort.

Post-Licensing Requirements

After obtaining your license, remember to:

Register for VAT (if applicable)
Open a corporate bank account
Obtain necessary visas for employees
Comply with Emiratisation quotas (if applicable)

A diverse group of entrepreneurs celebrating the opening of their new business in Abu Dhabi

Starting a business in Abu Dhabi offers exciting opportunities in a dynamic economy. By following these licensing procedures and leveraging the assistance provided by TAMM, you can establish your business efficiently and begin operations in one of the world's most promising markets.