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Business Setup & Free Zones

Abu Dhabi mainland business setup: costs and requirements

Setting up in the capital gives you strong government access. Here's what it costs and who it's built for.

6 May 2026
Three colleagues collaborating in an open office

Abu Dhabi mainland setup is often overlooked in favour of Dubai, but for businesses targeting government contracts or the capital's market directly, it's the right call.

Cost

Abu Dhabi Mainland starts from AED 15,900 in professional fees, with up to four business activities included. Residence visas are added separately.

What's included

Tawtheeq tenancy support (Abu Dhabi's equivalent of Ejari), initial approval and MOA drafting, and corporate bank account introductions.

Why choose Abu Dhabi over Dubai

Government contract eligibility, capital-city presence for firms working with federal entities, and the ability to trade UAE-wide just like a Dubai mainland licence.

Capital-city presence with government contract eligibility.

View the Abu Dhabi Mainland package
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