The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has announced the establishment of the Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority (ADRA) to oversee business registration and licensing in the emirate and its non-financial economic free zones.
The move comes after a resolution by the Abu Dhabi Executive Council to streamline licensing procedures and ensure regulatory compliance. The authority will manage the commercial registry, coordinate with relevant entities, and oversee adherence to regulations, including anti-money laundering (AML) and combating illicit financing activities.
ADRA will consolidate data on economic establishments through a unified database covering mainland businesses and non-financial free zones. The authority will also manage licensing processes and regulatory affairs using digital solutions to facilitate business operations and encourage investment.
“ADRA embodies the emirate’s vision to strengthen its position as a leading destination for talent, investment, and business, empowering businesses to expand locally and globally, and access new markets,” said Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED. “ADRA also plays a pivotal role in attracting new investments across key sectors, contributing to the realisation of Abu Dhabi’s economic vision. It ensures compliance with international standards and global regulations by all economic establishments in the emirate’s mainland and non-financial economic free zones, reflecting our commitment to further enhance transparency and provide accurate data for policymakers, researchers, and businesses to support informed, data-driven decision-making.”
ADRA will introduce new types of licenses to attract talent and entrepreneurs and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s economic ecosystem by ensuring compliance with local, federal, and international regulations.
