Abu Dhabi Licenses

Scroll down to find out about the different business licenses available in Abu Dhabi. There are licenses for all types and stages of businesses, from freelancers and startups through to LLCs and branches of foreign companies.

Our Unique Abu Dhabi Business Setup Process

We established our business to help companies get the proper trade license. To make life easier for our clients, we are now going a step further.

With our convenient one-stop shop solution, you can access all the necessary trade licensing information and purchase business setup packages online, eliminating the need schedule appointments (unless you wish to) and wait for quotes.

After choosing and purchasing your business setup package, you'll be invited to our user-friendly, cloud-based platform where you will be guided to upload your documents and information, step-by-step. We'll then manage the process of setting up your new company.

Company formation simplified.

how to start a business in Abu Dhabi Gateway Group

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Abu Dhabi Freelance License

Abu Dhabi Freelance license is ideal for freelancers, professional individuals, self-employed persons, side hustles and entrepreneurs giving them 100% ownership of their mainland business. No commercial premise is needed. No local sponsor is required. Activities are limited.

Average Processing Time

3-5 Working Days

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Abu Dhabi Trade License (Tajer License)

The Abu Dhabi Trader License (prev. Tajer License) is ideal for startups, micro businesses and small businesses. Over 1,200 business activities. Commercial premises aren't required for the first three years of operations. A local sponsor is required.

Average Processing Time

3-5 Working Days

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Abu Dhabi Limited Liability (LLC) License

LLCs with licenses issued by the DED can work throughout the emirate of Abu Dhabi; the government and organisations such as ADNOC. LLCs have the widest scope of business activities available. 100% foreign ownership is possible with some activities.

Average Processing Time

3-4 Weeks

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Abu Dhabi Establishment License

Abu Dhabi Establishment Licenses are issued by the DED permitting the license holder to work throughout Abu Dhabi and with the federal and Abu Dhabi governments and ADNOC. Ideal for Emirati and GCC nationals, as individual owners. Wide choice of activities.

Average Processing Time

1 Week

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Abu Dhabi Foreign Branch License

LLCs with licenses issued by the DED can work throughout the emirate of Abu Dhabi; the government and organisations such as ADNOC. LLCs have the widest scope of business activities available. 100% foreign ownership is possible with some activities.

Average Processing Time

3-4 Weeks

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Abu Dhabi Instant License (Establishment)

Abu Dhabi Instant Licenses are issued at time of application, business setup formalities come after. Ideal for Emirati or GCC nationals, as individual owners. Permitted to work throughout Abu Dhabi, with the federal and Abu Dhabi governments and the likes of ADNOC.

Average Processing Time

Same Day

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Abu Dhabi Instant License (LLC)

Abu Dhabi Instant Licenses are issued at time of application, business setup formalities come after. Ideal for Emirati or GCC nationals, as individual owners. Permitted to work throughout Abu Dhabi, with the federal and Abu Dhabi governments and the likes of ADNOC.

Average Processing Time

Same Day

Explore our Abu Dhabi
Business Setup Packages

DIRECT ACCESS

We're making it easier to register your business in Abu Dhabi.

Our website is currently being upgraded.

We're currently adding all of our services onto our site to provide you the best and easiest experience for setting up your business and applying for visas in Abu Dhabi.

If the service you want isn't online yet, don't worry, we can still setup your company straight away. Fill out the form below to let us know the service you want.

Abu Dhabi business setup licenses gatewaytouae

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Why Use Gateway Group

for your Abu Dhabi business setup

✔️ We are highly experienced in setting up companies. Our Abu Dhabi business setup team are here to help you through the company registration, from application to license issuance.

✔️ We have the ability to setup your Abu Dhabi company electronically - eliminating the need to complete any paperwork.

✔️ Upon completion of your license registration, you will receive an electronic copy of your Commercial Registration Certificate and economic license (trade license), confirming the existence and validity of your new company.

Strategic Partnership

with Abu Dhabi government

Gateway Group was chosen as preferred partner for business setups by Abu Dhabi Residents Office, part of the Department of Economic Development (DED). This strategic partnership is committed to attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Abu Dhabi and supporting foreign companies entering the market to promote the ease of doing business in the emirate.