Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland
The capital’s licence, suited to contracting, energy and government work.
Abu Dhabi is the seat of federal government and home to the UAE’s largest energy, infrastructure and public sector buyers. A mainland licence from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development lets you supply those buyers directly, take on contracting work and hold long-term tenancies in the emirate.
We prepare the trade name and initial approval, match your activity list to the tenders you intend to bid for, arrange the tenancy documents and complete immigration registration so your team can be sponsored under the new company.
Why businesses choose it
- Direct access to government and semi-government tenders in the capital
- Strong fit for contracting, oil and gas services, logistics and consultancy
- Full foreign ownership available for most activities
- Competitive office and warehouse costs compared with Dubai
- Recognised licence for opening corporate accounts with national banks
Licence types
- Commercial — trading and distribution
- Professional — engineering, consultancy and services
- Industrial — manufacturing and workshops
How long it takes
Typically 7–12 working days, depending on activity approvals.
Costs depend on your activity, visas and office. Use the cost calculator for an itemised estimate.
What we handle for you
Activity selection and trade name, initial approvals, the memorandum and licence application, tenancy or desk paperwork, establishment card, visas and Emirates ID, and the documents your bank will ask for. You get one point of contact and a clear list of what is needed from you.
Questions we are asked
Can I use an Abu Dhabi licence to work in Dubai?
Yes. A mainland licence from any emirate lets you serve customers across the UAE; you only need a branch if you want a permanent place of business in another emirate.
Which activities need extra approvals?
Engineering, healthcare, education, security and food-related activities need approval from the relevant authority. We prepare those files with you.
Ready to start, or still comparing?
Tell us what you plan to do and how many visas you need. We will send the exact cost and the document list the same working day.
Talk to an advisor