Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has announced significant changes to its commercial licence fee structure, effective January 1, 2025. The revisions include substantial fee reductions for non-financial and retail businesses, aiming to enhance ADGM’s appeal as a global business hub and streamline costs for enterprises operating within its jurisdiction.
For non-financial businesses, the initial registration fee has been reduced by 45%, from $10,000 to $5,500, while the annual renewal fee is now $5,000, down from $8,000. Retail businesses will see initial registration fees cut by more than half, from $6,000 to $2,500, and annual renewal fees reduced from $4,000 to $2,000.
These reductions coincide with the end of the Al Reem Island transition period on December 31, 2024, and are applicable across ADGM’s jurisdiction, including Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands.
Other categories
While non-financial and retail categories benefit from reduced fees, adjustments have been made for other sectors. For financial businesses, initial registration fees have risen from $15,000 to $16,700, and annual renewals now cost $16,200, up from $13,000. Tech startups will face an increase from $1,000 to $1,500 for both new registrations and renewals.
A mandatory data protection fee of $300 will continue to apply to all categories during new registrations and renewals.
The updated fee structure follows consultations held in 2023 with ADGM’s business community, focusing on expanding its jurisdiction and improving the ease of doing business. Based on this feedback, the Registration Authority (RA) undertook a detailed review to align the fee schedule with the needs of ADGM’s diverse commercial landscape.
“The revised fee structure reflects our commitment to supporting businesses within ADGM’s thriving jurisdiction,” said Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, the CEO of ADGM RA. “By significantly reducing fees for non-financial and retail categories, we aim to cultivate a vibrant and efficient business ecosystem, reinforcing ADGM’s position as a leading international financial hub.”
End of fee exemptions
With the conclusion of the Al Reem Island transitional period, fee exemptions previously available to certain non-financial and retail businesses have been discontinued. The new structure aims to create a consistent framework for all enterprises while supporting ADGM’s broader goal of fostering a competitive and dynamic business environment.
These changes mark a key step in ADGM’s ongoing efforts to attract and retain businesses, positioning itself as a preferred destination for global and regional enterprises.
