UAE firms can now open Abu Dhabi branches without physical premises for a year, says ADDED

The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has recently launched a series of new flexible measures aimed at supporting the business expansion and growth of various sectors in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The new regulations allow companies registered in other Emirates of the UAE and their respective free zones to open branch offices in Abu Dhabi without providing a physical operating location for the first year.

This initiative aims to simplify business processes, enabling companies to more easily capitalize on the numerous business opportunities within Abu Dhabi's growing economy. Simultaneously, it reflects Abu Dhabi's commitment to fostering a favorable investment climate by optimizing the business environment, thereby solidifying its position as a thriving hub for investment and growth.

Mohamed Munif Al Mansouri, Acting Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA), stated, "We are working to support Abu Dhabi's transition towards a smart, diversified, and sustainable economy through initiatives that enable the business sector to benefit from the Emirate's ample and promising opportunities." This strategic approach is designed to enhance the overall business landscape and attract further investment.

ADDED's new measures exempt 1,200 economic activities across various sectors from the requirement to provide a physical operating location within one year from the date of license issuance. This decision supports Abu Dhabi's economic diversification efforts by enabling companies to achieve growth through its integrated business ecosystem. Furthermore, it promotes the growth of the non-oil sector, which has grown by 59% over the past decade and 6.6% in the third quarter of 2024, increasing its contribution to Abu Dhabi's GDP to 54%.

Al Mansouri added, "Our measures support the expansion of businesses by streamlining operations. In addition, we are developing legal and regulatory frameworks to improve ease of doing business, thereby achieving the strategic goals of economic growth and enhancing Abu Dhabi's global competitiveness." These efforts aim to create a more attractive and efficient business environment for both local and international companies.

Abu Dhabi, recognized as the fastest-growing startup ecosystem in the Middle East and North Africa region, has expanded the activities under Tajer Abu Dhabi and the Freelancer License to 1,200 and 100 activities, respectively. This expansion caters to the needs of entrepreneurs and investors from various industries, supporting the launch and operation of businesses in the commercial sector, promoting economic diversification, and creating job opportunities.

Business owners licensed in other Emirates can now apply for a new branch license in Abu Dhabi through TAMM, the unified Abu Dhabi government services digital platform. The process includes submitting the necessary documents, obtaining approvals, and paying the fees, and receiving the economic license for the new branch upon receipt of the acceptance notification.

To apply for a branch license in Abu Dhabi, follow these steps: First, log in to TAMM using your UAE Pass. Search for "Issue an Economic License - Branch" and fill in the required data. Attach all necessary documents and certificates. Pay the required fees, ranging from AED 800 to AED 2,900. You will then receive your license via email.