Events
- FinTech Abu Dhabi
  Returning for its 5th edition, this year’s Fintech Abu Dhabi will be held over 22 - 24 November 2021 in an exciting new hybrid format. Offering a combination of virtual and onsite sessions, attendees from across the globe.
- Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Forum
  Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Forum (ADSFF) is a flagship initiative of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), Abu Dhabi’s International Financial Centre.
- RESOLVE
  An event that will bring together the local and international dispute resolution community in ADGM to tackle the biggest issues facing the industry, with inspiration, impact and transformation being strong themes for the discussion.
- More Events
  View ADGM's past and upcoming events.
eServices
- eServices Overview
  The Online Registry Solution, is a digital platform that allows applicants to register, and maintain their company through online services without the need to visit the ADGM offices
- ACCESSADGM
  Login page
- ADGM eCourts Platform
  It's a game changer. Experience a universal digital solution with ADGM Courts. Brilliant.
- Electronic Prudential Reporting
  Electronic Prudential Reporting FSPRA Portal
- Online Registry Solution
  LThe online registry solution is available to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for registering and incorporating entities and searching for entities and their associated details.
- FSRAConnect
  Welcome to FSRAConnect
Public Notices
Spotlight
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About ADGM
- Overview
  
  About ADGM
  
  Located in the heart of the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi Global Market is the leading, progressive and digital-first international financial centre.
- Leadership
  
  ADGM Leadership
  
  The Government of Abu Dhabi and the leaders of ADGM are driven by a shared belief in the values of open governance, a modern and fair judiciary, economic responsibility and the nurturing of an enterprise-led economy that creates opportunities for all.
- Destination Abu Dhabi
  
  Destination Abu Dhabi
  
  Abu Dhabi is a thriving global hub for trade and industry, enabled by an advanced digital economy, world-leading physical infrastructure and a highly competitive tax and regulatory regime.
- ADGM Academy
  
  ADGM Academy
  
  From state-of-the-art training facilities in the heart of ADGM, the ADGM Academy is an integral part of Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic development, with a remit to conduct financial research, training, education, professional development and literacy for financial and legal professionals in Abu Dhabi and across the MENA region.
- ADGM Arbitration Centre
  
  ADGM Arbitration Centre
  
  Leading the development of an international dispute resolution community, the ADGM Arbitration Centre is a world leader in arbitration thought leadership and a globally recognised resource for a diverse panel of mediators within a digitally-native infrastructure.
- Registration Authority
  Setting Up
  
  Registration and Incorporation
  After registering your business, you can take advantage of a number of registration and licensing services. Find out how you can benefit.
  
  Visas and Government Services
  The RA works closely with relevant government authorities and services to provide a simple, streamlined process, and one point of contact to guide you through the visa process.
  
  Temporary Licences
  Parties looking to set up promotional stands, kiosks or food carts on Al Maryah Island must file an application for a temporary licence.
  
  Registration of Real Property Interest
  The Registration Authority is accepting applications for registration of all types of real property interests located within Al Maryah Island.
  
  Operating In
  
  Circulars
  All circulars related to registered entities in ADGM can be viewed here.
  
  Operating in ADGM
  Find out what you need to know to operate and grow your business in ADGM.
  
  Changes to Registered Entity Information
  The RA needs to be officially informed by ADGM registered entities of specific changes to entity information within a set period of time. Failure to do so will result in fines.
  
  Letters, Event and Photo Permits
  RA issues all letters including NOC as well as events, photography and filming permits for activities on Al Maryah Island. Application is online through the ACCESSADGM portal.
  
  Office of Data Protection
  Responsible for promoting data protection, maintaining the register of Data Controllers, enforcing the obligations upon Data Controllers and upholding the rights of individuals.
  
  Employment Affairs Office
  Responsible for overseeing the operations of the Employment Regulations in respect to providing guidance, stakeholder liaison and ensuring best practice on employment matters.
  
  Monitoring and Enforcement
  The RA’s Monitoring & Enforcement function strives to prevent and deter improper conduct through risk based supervision and enforcement of ADGM’s commercial regulations and rules.
  
  General / Public
  
  Complaints
  The RA assesses complaints concerning potential contraventions of ADGM’s commercial legislation or potential misconduct by non-financial businesses registered in ADGM.
  
  Notices
  All notices regarding registered entities issued by the RA can be viewed here.
  
  Laws, Regulations and Rules
  
  Laws, Regulations and Rules
  A sound regulatory framework of clear and transparent rules, benchmarked against international standards and global best practices.
- Financial Services Regulatory Authority
  FSRA Services
  
  Obligations of Financial Services Entities
  Financial services entities registered in ADGM need to meet specific obligations set out by the FSRA. These obligations are in addition to standard obligations that all ADGM registered entities are required to meet.
  
  Supervision
  Playing a critical role in fulfilling the objectives of ADGM, the FSRA acts swiftly and decisively to address and deter conduct that may adversely affect the integrity of the ADGM or the stability of the financial services industry in the ADGM.
  
  Enforcement
  The FSRA adopts a risk-based approach to regulation, focusing our efforts on those activities that we perceive as posing the greatest risk to the furtherance of our objectives.
  
  Laws, Regulations and Rules
  
  Laws, Regulations and Rules
  A sound regulatory framework of clear and transparent rules, benchmarked against international standards and global best practices
  
  Independent Review
  The Appeals Panel is in place to promote proper observance of due process. Learn more about how the Appeals Panel helps ensure consistency, transparent and proportionate use of the FSRA’s powers.
  
  Complaints
  The FSRA assesses regulatory complaints concerning potential contraventions of regulations and rules that the FSRA administers, potential misconduct by any person that it regulates, or any conduct that will prevent the FSRA from meeting its objectives, including any activities that may cause damage to the reputation of ADGM.
  
  Financial Crime Prevention
  ADGM is committed to promoting sound practices in financial crime compliance which include AML/CFT, and compliance with international tax reporting obligations including FATCA and CRS.
  
  FSRA General Application Process
  The Financial Services Regulatory Authority welcomes financial services firms and institutions who wish to establish their presence in Abu Dhabi’s financial free zone.
  
  Authorisation and Supplementary Forms
  Applicant will be required to fill out the requisite forms when making an application to conduct financial services regulated activities in ADGM. The forms include guidance notes and should be read in conjunction with the relevant legislation.
  
  FinTech
  ADGM has the most sophisticated regulatory frameworks for financial services, particularly for FinTech, providing clarity, transparency and security for entrepreneurs and their investors.
- ADGM Courts
  Explore ADGM Courts
  
  Legislation and Procedures
  Browse our legislation and procedures including our regulations, rules, court procedure rules and practice directions.
  
  Judgments
  Access all judgments published by ADGM Courts.
  
  Hearings
  View our hearings calendar
  
  Cases
  ADGM Courts publish a fully searchable list of all cases before them.
  
  Forms, Fees and Guides
  Download our forms, view our fees and access guides and procedural flow charts.
  
  Memoranda of Understanding
  Read our MoUs on enforcement and judicial collaboration and the Chief Justice’s Directions on recognised foreign courts.
  
  Pro Bono Scheme
  Access the Pro Bono Scheme established by the Court to enable individuals with limited financial means to receive legal assistance at no cost.
  
  Notary Public and Wills Office
  Access the notary public and wills service provided in partnership between ADGM Courts and Abu Dhabi Judicial Department.
  
  Court-Annexed Mediation
  ADGM Courts support alternative dispute resolution. Find out more about our procedures for court-annexed mediation.
- ADGM Authority
  Key Strategic and Support Functions
  
  Strategy Division
  Creating impact through strategy and planning over all horizons to ensure ADGM continues to thrive and meet its stakeholders' needs
  
  Business Development Division
  Laying the foundations for critical growth and long-term value creation for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi through building enduring relationships across a broad range of stakeholders and markets
  
  IT Division
  Connecting ADGM through ensuring leading information technology infrastructure using state-of-the-art technology and new ideas
  
  Human Resources Division
  Attracting and retaining top talent for ADGM, ensuring it remains at the leading edge of the international IFC landscape
  
  Finance Division
  TManaging and deploying ADGM's financial resources to ensure sustainable growth and longevity
  
  General Services Department
  Building and preserving the vibrant ADGM ecosystem through the provision of best-in-class services across a range of areas
  
  Marketing & Corporate Communications Division
  Communicating ADGM's unique value proposition to a broad range of stakeholders from internal, external, local and international, to provide increased awareness of ADGM and its offering
  
  Procurement Division
  Adroitly managing public tenders and vendors to acquire the services required to further bolster ADGM's offering
  
  Office of Information Security and Enterprise Risk Management
  Upholding data protection and mitigating potential threats standard business operations to enhance trust and confidence in ADGM
Setting Up
- Overview
  
  Setting up in ADGM
  
  Our vibrant, digitally-native infrastructure and robust English common law framework is designed to give you the confidence to quickly, easily and safely set up and build your business in the ADGM ecosystem.
- Financial Business
  Banking
  
  Corporate and Transaction Banking
  Providing an attractive home to banks offering transaction banking services
  
  Private Banking and Wealth Management
  In a centre of wealth with over a trillion dollars of assets under management
  
  Investment Banking
  Discover an open, progressive and international financial services sector
  
  Money Services Business
  Converting currency and transmitting money to individuals and corporates across theworld
  
  Digital Banking
  Fast, secure and accessible banking services
  
  Capital Markets
  
  Brokerage
  Discover a diverse range of product offerings with world markets connectivity
  
  Market Infrastructure
  Investment exchanges, clearing houses, MTFs and OTFs
  
  Virtual Asset Activities
  A leading destination of choice for virtual asset players
  
  Securities
  Taking a leading stance worldwide with a transparent approach towards regulation of securities
  
  Wealth and Asset Management
  
  Investment Management
  Discover an open, progressive and international financial services sector
  
  Funds and Fund Management
  Where fund managers can establish a comprehensive selection of funds
  
  Asset Servicing
  A home for the full lifecycle of asset servicing
  
  FinTech
  
  FinTech
  Think FinTech. Think ADGM.
  
  The ADGM RegLab
  One of the world's most active regulatory sandboxes
  
  The ADGM Digital Lab
  Enabling APIs, system virtual machines and applications that connect legacy systems
- Non-Financial Business
  Corporate
  
  Corporate Headquarters
  All ADGM registered entities have regular obligations they need to meet and comply wThe ideal platform to lead and grow your business in MENA
  
  Corporate Treasury
  Establish your regional treasury at ADGM for a stable regional base
  
  Family Offices and Foundations
  Establish your family business at the region's leading hub for wealth management and succession planning
  
  Professional Service Providers
  Unrivalled access to business opportunities across the UAE and the wider region
  
  Tech Start-up
  Join a thriving ecosystem and gain access to a vibrant tech community
  
  Associations
  A supportive platform for industry and professional associations
- Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs)
  
  Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) are passive holding companies established for the purpose of isolating financial and legal risk by ring-fencing certain assets and liabilities.
  
  The SPV regime at ADGM is designed to be flexible, robust, simple and efficient, benchmarked against leading alternatives around the world. We offer a quick, easy to use and fully digital registration process, with straightforward reporting requirements and transparent pricing.
- Retail
  
  ADGM is a vibrant business and lifestyle destination home to luxury retail and dining options, premium hospitality and world-class healthcare. This world-class retail environment is home to a selection of luxury boutiques, contemporary international brands and a wide array of dining options to suit every occasion.
  
  The Galleria Al Maryah Island is Abu Dhabi's next generation shopping mall and lifestyle destination providing a whole new shopping, dining and entertainment experience. With 400 leading international brands, 100 unique restaurants and a wide variety of entertainment options, The Galleria mall has transformed the Abu Dhabi retail and lifestyle landscape.
- Start your set-up
Operating in ADGM
- Office Space
  
  Depending on the type of activities entities will be conducting and the type of licence they will be issued by ADGM, they may or may not be required to have office space on Al Maryah Island. Once contact is established with the ADGM team they will advise on office requirements on a case by case basis.
  
  All Al Maryah Island real estate is owned, managed and leased by Mubadala, providing a single point of contact for all your office space needs. The ADGM team is also on hand to help all its clients with a smooth process of finding and leasing office space.
- Visas and Government Services
  Overview
  ACCESSADGM is a highly efficient, comprehensive and integrated online portal that provides a wide range of services including visas, permits, postal services, administrative letters, a Knowledge Center and much more.
  
  Work Permits
  All ADGM licensed entities must apply and obtain work permits for each individual working for their entity. Work permits can be requested through the online portal ACCESSADGM, and are issued electronically via the portal.
- Obligations of ADGM Registered Entities
  Overview
  All ADGM registered entities have regular obligations they need to meet and comply with in order to remain part of the ADGM community.
  
  Annual Filings
  ADGM registered entities are obliged to complete a specified number of filings on an annual basis, during the same period each year. These will more often than not fall on the anniversary of incorporation or registration of the entity.
  
  Event-driven Filings
  An Event-driven Filing refers to an entity’s obligations to notify the Registrar of certain changes / events that occur with regards to the registered entities.
  
  Real Property
  Registered freehold interests, leasehold interests, strata interests, mortgage, easements and covenant may be subject to post-registration requirements based on the nature of the registered interest and its lifecycle.
  
  Financial & Cyber Crime Prevention
  Money Laundering (ML) and Targeted Financial Sanctions (TFS) are two major risks that threaten economic growth and social stability through the illicit flow of funds and illegal activities.
  
  Legislation and Guidance
  ADGM published its first set of commercial rules and regulations that were enacted by its Board of Directors on 3 March 2015.
  
  Beneficial Ownership and Control
  There are a number of options for closing down your ADGM limited company, including having the company struck off or liquidated.
  
  Closing Down Your Company
  There are a number of options for closing down your ADGM limited company, including having the company struck off or liquidated.
  
  Economic Substance
  The Economic Substance Regulations (“ESR”) was introduced as part of the UAE’s commitment as a member of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation & Development (“OECD”) Inclusive Framework,
- Company Service Providers (CSPs)
  Overview
  The CSP Framework is designed to ensure a robust regulatory regime for company service providers in ADGM that is in line with international best practices and address the challenges and risks associated with the increasing growth of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and Foundations structures.
  
  Information for company service providers (CSPs)
  Being a licensed ADGM Company Service Provider (CSP) enables CSPs to provide company services (e.g. company formation, registered office address and company filing services), including company services to non-exempt SPVs and foundations under ADGM’s CSP Framework.
  
  Non-exempt SPVs and foundations
  Under ADGM's CSP Framework, setting up and maintaining a non-exempt SPV or foundation requires an ADGM licensed Company Service Provider.
  
  Exempt SPVs and foundations
  SPVs and foundations that demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Registrar they are exempt, as set out under section 296A(3) of the Companies Regulations 2020 or section 18(2) of the Foundations Regulations 2017, as amended, are not required to appoint a Company Service Provider under the CSP Framework.
  
  List of licensed company service providers
  The table below lists all the entities that have been granted a licence by the Registration Authority to conduct Company Service Provider activities.
  
  Guidance and resources
  Will the SPV be a subsidiary undertaking an entity that has been established by law or decree issued by His Highness, the Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi or any Federal Law?
- Auditors
  Auditors
  The Registration Authority (RA) has a statutory responsibility to oversee the regulated area of audit within the jurisdiction of ADGM.
  
  Existing Auditors
  The Framework provides enhanced powers for the Registration Authority (RA) in several areas. Rules 8, 11, 16 and Parts 9 and 10 of the Companies Regulations (Auditors) Rules 2021 cover these enhanced powers of the RA in detail.
  
  New Auditors
  Provide supporting documentation to show to the Registration Authority (RA) it meets the eligibility criteria and is a fit and proper firm to carry out audit work,
  
  Find an Auditor
  If you are operating in ADGM and need to appoint an auditor, you can find a list of Recognized Auditors on the Public Register.
  
  Registration Forms
  Application forms must be completed by the ‘Registered Auditor’ (auditor) applicant and for each ‘Registered Audit Principal’ (principal) nominated by the auditor.
- Additional Obligations of Financial Services Entities
  
  To help guide your business efficiently, ADGM continually issues various documents and notices to numerous documents and notices.
  
  The FSRA adopts a risk-based approach to regulation, focusing our efforts on those activities that we perceive as posing the greatest risk to the furtherance of our objectives.
- Financial & Cyber Crime Prevention
  Overview
  Money Laundering (ML) and Targeted Financial Sanctions (TFS) are two major risks that threaten economic growth and social stability through the illicit flow of funds and illegal activities.
  
  Outreach and References
  The Basel AML Index 2017 edition provides risk ratings based on the quality of a country's framework for AML and countering terrorism financing (AML/CFT) and related factors such as perceived levels of corruption, financial sector standards and public transparency.
  
  UAE Mutual Evaluation
  UAE mutual evaluation assessment by FATF/MENAFATF and follow-up reports
  
  Forms
  Below is a list of forms that each applicant may be required to complete, applicable to their intended activities within ADGM.
  
  AML/CFT Regulatory Framework
  It is important to note that the ADGM AML Rules should be read in context to the relevant UAE Federal Laws and Legislation.
  
  Sanctions
  The FATF has responded to the threat of illicit proliferation of weapons of mass destruction by updating its standards to include measures on the implementation of targeted financial sanctions related to proliferation.
  
  DNFBPs
  Lawyers, notaries, other independent legal professionals and accountants. This refers to sole practitioners, partners or employed professionals within professional firms.
  
  Reporting STR/SAR
  The Federal Decree by Law No. (20) of 2018 on Anti-Money Laundering, Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Financing of Illegal Organisations creates an obligation on all Relevant Person to report suspicious activities directly through its electronic system or by any other means approved by the FIU of the UAE.
  
  International Tax Reporting
  Tax avoidance and tax evasion threaten government revenues. In many other countries, the lost revenues run into billions of United States dollars.
  
  Notices and Circulars
  The Office of Data Protection Presentations, Flyers and Brochures.
  
  Risk Based Approach
  Countries should identify, assess, and understand the money laundering and terrorist financing risks for the country, and take action, including designating an authority or mechanism to coordinate actions to assess risks, and apply resources, aimed at ensuring the risks are mitigated effectively.
  
  High Risk Jurisdictions
  Below is a list of forms that each applicant may be required to complete, applicable to their intended activities within ADGM.
- Post Registration Services
  Overview
  ADGM offers additional services for both registered entities and third parties. .
  
  Visa and Government Services
  The Corporate Relations team supports registered entities and their employees by working closely with the relevant government authorities and providing a simple and streamlined process, and one point of contact.
  
  Legal Entity Identifier
  A Legal Entity Identity (LEI) number is a unique 20-character alphanumeric string (i.e. 529900T8BM49AURSDO55) used to distinctly represent a legal entity (company, organisation, firm, government body, trust, fund, others) on a worldwide basis.
  
  Registration of Charges
  Where a company creates a charge, the Registration Authority will register charges against the name of the company in ADGM through applicable provisions of the relevant ADGM Regulations.
  
  Letters and Permits
  Both ADGM registered entities and third parties are able to apply for official letters from ADGM including NOCs, via ACCESSADGM. Applicants will receive real-time notifications via the portal.
  
  Temporary Licence
  Third parties and ADGM registered retail entities who are interested in having a temporary promotional stand, kiosk or food carts on Al Maryah Island must file an application for a temporary licence with ADGM, prior to commencing operations.
  
  Registration of Real Property Interest
  The Registration Authority accepts applications for registration of all types of real property interests located within Al Maryah Island.
- Office of Data Protection
  Overview
  The Office of Data Protection is responsible for promoting data protection within ADGM, maintaining the register of Data Controllers, enforcing the obligations upon Data Controllers and upholding the rights of individuals
  
  For Individuals
  Under the regime, ADGM registered entities that collect, receive and process your personal data must comply with certain obligations in order to protect that data.
  
  For Data Controllers
  ADGM’s Data Protection Regulations 2021 require every ADGM registered entity that processes personal information (i.e. a ’Data Controller’) to register with the Office of Data Protection at the Registration Authority and renew its registration annually.
  
  Guidance
  The ADGM Standard Contractual Clauses (“SCCs”) is an appropriate safeguard under Article 42(2) of the Regulations to transfer personal data from the ADGM to a third party located in a third country or jurisdiction that does not provide an adequate level of protection
  
  Adequate Jurisdictions
  To ensure the protection of Personal Data that is transferred out of ADGM, our data protection regime follows the European Commission approach of designating jurisdictions that are deemed adequate from a data privacy and protection perspective.
  
  Fees
  ADGM registered entities that process Personal Data (i.e. Data Controllers) as well as other entities appointed to process personal data on their behalf (i.e. Data Processors), are required to be registered with the Registration Authority.
  
  Data Breach Notifications
  Data Controllers must inform the Office of Data Protection of a data breach. ‘Data Controller’ means any ADGM registered entity that alone or jointly with others determines the purposes and means of the processing of Personal Data.
  
  Useful Links
  The GPA (previously “ICDPPC”) is the premier global forum for data protection authorities. It is a worldwide annual forum at which independent regulators on privacy, data protection and freedom of information adopt high level resolutions and recommendations addressed to governments and international organisations.
  
  Resources
  The Office of Data Protection Presentations, Flyers and Brochures.
  
  Circulars
  Countries should identify, assess, and understand the money laundering and terrorist financing risks for the country, and take action, including designating an authority or mechanism to coordinate actions to assess risks, and apply resources, aimed at ensuring the risks are mitigated effectively.
- Employment Affairs Office
  
  The Employment Affairs Office is a dedicated office within ADGM that oversees the operations of the Employment Regulations in respect to providing guidance, stakeholder liaison and ensuring best practice on employment matters.
  
  Foster employment practices that will contribute to the prosperity of ADGM
- Insolvency Practitioners
  
  Individuals listed in this register have been registered as an Insolvency Practitioners in accordance with the relevant provisions of ADGM Insolvency Regulations (Insolvency Practitioner) Rules 2022. Individuals listed in this register are eligible to be appointed as a receiver, administrative receiver, administrator, liquidator or provisional liquidator or an administrator of a Deed of Company Arrangement under the ADGM Insolvency Regulations.
- eService Overview
  Online Registry Solution
  The Online Registry Solution, is a digital platform that allows applicants to register, and maintain their company through online services without the need to visit the ADGM offices
  
  ACCESSADGM Government Services Portal
  ADGM government related services can be accessed through ACCESSADGM client portal, a highly efficient, comprehensive and integrated online portal that has contributed to enhancing our ease of doing business and enjoying a seamless digital experience by our clients.
  
  Electronic Prudential Reporting
  ADGM's Electronic Prudential Reporting System (EPRS), a portal dedicated to simplifying the submission of regulatory filings. Financial services entities can login to the EPRS to submit a return or to see upcoming filing requirements.
  
  FSRA Connect
  FSRA Connect is a digital portal for ADGM’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA).
Initiatives
- ADGM Initiatives
  Enacting positive change through the support of businesses and their growth.
- Gender Equality
  Since its inception in 2015, ADGM has taken active strides in recruiting a talented pool of women professionals and graduate entrants who today make up close to half of its total workforce.
- Sustainable Finance
  ADGM aims to develop a vibrant and thriving sustainable finance hub that supports capital formation, raising and deployment as well as the creation and issuance of products to achieve positive economic, social and environmental objectives.
- UAE National Judge Programme
  Comprehensive framework and pathway for outstanding Emirati lawyers.
- FinTech Abu Dhabi
  FinTech Abu Dhabi’s content is now available for you to watch, or re-watch, on demand at a time that suits you.
- The Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance
  Plotting the Path to Meet Net-Zero Targets: Energizing Efforts for Action.
Companies Search
- Public Register
  The online registry solution is available to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for registering and incorporating entities and searching for entities and their associated details.
- FSRA Public Register
  The official Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) public register of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).
- Register of Insolvency Practitioners
  Individuals listed in this register have been authorised to conduct controlled activities pursuant to the relevant sections of ADGM Commercial Licensing Regulations 2015 (Conditions of License and Branch Registration) Rules 2019.
- Registered Auditors
  If you are operating in ADGM and need to appoint an auditor, you can find a list of ADGM registered auditors, both firms and individuals.
Legal Framework
- Overview
  ADGM provides market participants with a world-class legal system and regulatory regime.
- Federal Legislation
  Federal Legislation establishes ADGM as a Financial Free Zone.
- Abu Dhabi Legislation
  The Abu Dhabi Law No. (4) of 2013 sets out the governance, legislative, and regulatory framework and activities to be carried on in the Abu Dhabi Global Market.
- ADGM Regulations and Rules
  ADGM published its first set of commercial rules and regulations that were enacted by its Board of Directors on 3 March 2015.
- Public Consultations
  ADGM informs public and marketplace plans, unveils comments on proposed initiatives and rules ammendments through public consultations.
- FATCA and Common Reporting Standards
  ADGM is publishing guidance notes issued by the UAE Ministry of Finance, to support knowledge sharing with regards to FATCA and CRS.
- Guidance, Templates and Policy Statements
  ADGM and its three Authorities have issued relevant guidance to communicate and explain the principles that underpin the legal framework, which is based on English Common Law.
- Notices of Publication
  Consultation Paper No. 1 of 2015 Application of English Law Regulations.
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Spotlight

News • Blogs • Updates • Stories • Articles • Tips

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to vibrant tech community

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Spotlight

Spotlight is the source for the latest insights on the issues that matter most to our community of business professionals, entrepreneurs and investors. Spotlight features expert opinions and commentary to help organizations navigate the changing business landscape successfully.

Highlights & stories

National upskilling initiatives see more Emiratis join private sector: ADGM Academy-KPMG report

MENA FinTech Association (MFTA) Open Finance White Paper

Regulating virtual assets: Practical implementation and adoption

ADGM creates a global gateway for startup founders

Why VC Firms choose to operate from ADGM’s business-friendly hub

ADGM creates a global gateway for startup founders

Abu Dhabi: A leading global green financial centre

Abu Dhabi: A cosmopolitan safe haven for families and businesses

Abu Dhabi: Your next Regional Treasury Centre destination

Sustainable finance comes of age

The promise of Digital Banking in the MENA: a necessity not an option

How to build a fintech ecosystem

Abu Dhabi ecosystem enablers nurture a progressive environment for businesses

A sector overview on the status of fintech startups in 2020

Abu Dhabi Falcon set to soar in post-COVID-19 environment

What is the role of the banking regulator in the current pandemic?

What makes Abu Dhabi such fertile ground for startups and SMEs?

How to effectively harness technology for better risk assessment and management

Post-pandemic priorities for financial services regulators

Standing with businesses through unprecedented times

Success stories

ADGM fintech & Hub71 startup, Tarabut Gateway, has secured the largest regional fintech seed round and now eyes geographic and product expansion.

Tarabut Gateway secures a record-breaking $13M seed round

ADGM and Finverity bring accessible supply chain finance to SMEs

Meet Pure Harvest, sustainable food and smart farm startup

Abu Dhabi fintech startups futureproof the ecosystem

Meet Clara: Legaltech startup reshaping the business and practice of law

Resiliency measures for entrepreneurs and startups during the COVID-19 pandemic

ADGM wins GAR Award for "Jurisdiction that has made great progress"

Growth Stories

Explore more

Hala Insurance ADGM provides workspaces for the upcoming businesses of the region. @halainsurance, a privately-owned #tech startup based in #ADGM, is one of those businesses, having been a part of the @hub71ad incubator program.

Key2Enable ADGM Tech Startup License was a driver in the success of Key2Enable, a startup that empowers people with disabilities to develop their #skills and individualities.

Securrency #Securrency, a blockchain-enabled financial services market infrastructure startup, offering integration of DLT capabilities for existing banking and exchange infrastructure.

ClaraTech ClaraTech completed its two-year ADGM Tech Startup Licence programme and was the first tech start-up licensee to convert into a fully operational licensed entity within ADGM.

Pure Harvest Sustainable food and smart farm start-up Pure Harvest became part of the #ADGMCommunity in late 2017.

Matrix As a leading multilateral trading firm, #Matrix chose to operate within the heart of Abu Dhabi's largest regulated environment to offer institutional investors and individuals the opportunity to deposit, trade and draw spot market products safely and securely.

Jibrel The reach and reputation that #ADGM has fostered, locally and globally, are a driving factor attracting #innovative companies such as Jibrel Network, who developed a blockchain remittance solution as part of its mission to democratize access to financial services.

Sirius & ADCP

Capex As a member of the ADGM community, @capex_mena, a global online trading platform shares its growth story, explaining why they have decided to choose ADGM as its home and the key role it has played in mapping out the road toward the future.

Starting a business in ADGM

Setting up in ADGM offers opportunities to grow and scale in Abu Dhabi’s award-winning international financial centre, providing an international and supportive business environment.

Learn more

In the media

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ADGM-based AirCarbon Exchange selects Eventus for 1st comprehensive market surveillance programme for VCM AirCarbon Exchange selects Eventus as partner to introduce first comprehensive market surveillance program for Voluntary Carbon Market

HSBC expands global securities services in ADGM HSBC has expanded its Markets and Securities Services business in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), obtaining an arranging custody license for its key sovereign, institutional and investment manager clients.

UAE launches 'NextGen FDI' to attract world's digital businesses and talent and set up here Companies that plan to relocate their personnel to the UAE under NextGen FDI will be offered special incentives.

Why financial companies are hesitant to invest in decentralised finance The unregulated DeFi market poses operating risks that need to be addressed, senior executive at Abu Dhabi Global Market says.

What would you say is the most coveted and appealing city in the region to live in? Abu Dhabi and Dubai has been ranked as the most liveable cities in the region, for the third consecutive year, according to the Global Liveability Index 2022 issued by The Economist Intelligence Unit (The EIU)!

Galloire partners with MidChains through tokenised payments Galloire, the innovative contemporary art gallery continues to push forward with the use of technology to enable collectors to connect with its artists and their work.

ADGM-Regulated Yoshi Market Limited starts to onboard global clients Abu Dhabi’s ADGM regulated Yoshi Markets begins global client onboarding

ADGM revolutionises sustainable projects through carbon credit trading Abu Dhabi Global Market pioneers the milestone exchange allowing companies to trade carbon credits like conventional financial assets.

ADGM FSRA-licenced virtual trading platform, MidChains, joins Visa Fintech Fast Track programme MidChains, recently announced that it has joined Visa’s Fintech Fast Track program, speeding up the process of integrating with Visa.

ADGM to launch world's first voluntary Carbon Credit Exchange On 29 March 2022, ADGM, the international financial centre in Abu Dhabi, announced the formation of the first fully regulated voluntary carbon trading exchange and clearing house.

ADGM-based Securrency Capital secures a Financial Services Permission (FSP) from ADGM’s FSRA Securrency Capital, today announced that it has secured a FSP from ADGM's FSRA to deal in investments as a matched principal and provide custody for those investments.

ADGM Welcomes the Newly Formed NMC OPCO LTD into its Vibrant Business Community Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the International Financial Centre in Abu Dhabi, has welcomed the newly formed holding company, NMC OpCo Ltd (NMC), and its Board of Directors and management to its vibrant business hub.

ADGM-based MASDAR has issued its 2021 Sustainability Report Masdar released the ninth edition of its annual sustainability report, highlighting its sustainable approach to support the UAE on its path to a sustainable, diversified economy.

Shuaa Capital launches a $250m debt fund listed at ADGM Dubai's Shuaa Capital launches $250m debt fund for businesses seeking 'alternative capital'

ADGM offsets 2021 carbon emissions with the help of AirCarbon UAE's financial freezone ADGM offsets 2021 carbon emissions with help of AirCarbon

LexisNexis UAE Managing Partner Report The 2022 UAE Managing Partner Report is here! Brought to you by LexisNexis Middle East and supported by Abu Dhabi Global Market.

ADGM FSRA-licenced Hubpay raises $20 million in Series A fundraising Founded in September 2019 by Kevin Kilty, Hubpay is an e-wallet that enables customers to send money both domestically and internationally.

ADGM FSRA-licenced fintech Pyypl raises $11 million Series A UAE-based fintech Pyypl has raised $11 million in a Series A round from a group of international family offices and angel investors.

UAE Ranks First Globally in Entrepreneurship With the high score of 6.8, the Emirates was named the best place to start a new business in the latest Global Entrepreneurship Index.

Linda Fitz-Alan, Registrar and CEO of ADGM Courts, is transforming the judicial system with technology Exclusive: Linda Fitz-Alan, Registrar And CEO At ADGM Courts, Is Transforming The Judicial System With Technology

ADGM Courts, Registrar & CEO, Linda Fitz-AlanJoins Forbes ME List '50 Most Powerful Business Women in MENA' This year’s list of MENA’s most influential and successful businesswomen features representatives of 19 different nationalities and 17 sectors.

ADGM-based, Matrix, adds block trading to its capabilities and four virtual assets Matrix adds high-volume trading and four more virtual assets, including USDC and XRP

ADGM’s Chimera Capital concludes second close of VC fund at $10bn Chimera Capital, an Abu Dhabi asset management company and subsidiary of Chimera Investments, concluded the second close of its Alpha Wave Ventures II fund at $10 billion (Dh36.7bn).

ADGM is a founding partner in the MENA Fintech Association: 'Sustainable Fintech Alliance' MFTA has launched the Sustainable Fintech Alliance, with the mission of helping its members create positive impacts in the face of the increasingly urgent environmental and social challenges.

ADGM registered Lean Technologies raises $33mil in its latest funding round Saudi Arabian FinTech Lean Technologies has raised $33 million in its latest funding round that will allow the company to expand its operations to new markets.

Podcast on the future of digital currencies Mustafa Alrawi and Kelsey Warner interviews Wai Lum Kwok, senior executive director of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), about the role regulators play in this new frontier.

Perspectives on ESG in the Middle East with ADGM Emmanuel Givanakis, Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority at the ADGM, discuss the role regulators can play in identifying and managing ESG factors within the Middle East.

ADGM To Double the Number of Cryptocurrency Exchanges to 6 Abu Dhabi Global Market has three operational virtual assets, or what are commonly called cryptocurrency exchanges.

ADGM-base Fertiglobe, 1st company in a Financial Free zone to list on Onshore Exchange Fertiglobe, the world’s largest seaborne exporter of urea and ammonia combined, plans to list on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, selling 13.8 per cent of the company’s share capital.

ADGM RegLab graduate, PYYPL, secures spot on LinkedIn Top Startups 2021 List Pyypl is a payment technology company that provides users with digital payments solutions without the need for a bank account or credit card.

The Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2021

ADGM-Based Feedni completes 1st phase of service marketplace platform Feedni, a technology company headquartered at ADGM - UAE, completes development of the first phase of its service marketplace platform.

ADGM partners with Startup Genome for GSER 2021 The Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2021

ADGM welcomes India’s largest private petrochemicals company, Reliance Industries Reliance launches $1m UAE subsidiary for trading oil and petroleum products

UAE to Become a Global Crypto Hub Cryptocurrency adoption in the Middle East is higher than it's ever been and regulatory frameworks to support crypto-related financial services is growing

Mubadala-backed MidChains completes first trades on four cryptocurrencies

MidChains becomes first fully-regulated virtual asset trading platform to receive sovereign wealth fund backing in the region MidChains, an Abu Dhabi virtual asset trading exchange, has said it completed its first trades on Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin and Bitcoin Cash on September 1.

FundRock launches Middle East ManCo Services in ADGM

ADGM's Director of Financial Crimes Prevention Unit concludes the Public-Private Partnership Committee's second meeting

FundRock launches Middle East ManCo Services in ADGM FundRock ME operates a fully authorised ManCo for Qualified Investor Funds and Exempt Funds in the ADGM enabling asset management clients to streamline their operations in a cost-effective manner.

A recent judgment of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Court of First Instance The intersection of insolvency proceedings and arbitration in financing transactions: a recent judgment of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Court of First Instance

UAE Fintech Report 2021 Fintech News Middle East: UAE Fintech Report 2021

AD Ranks 5th - Global City Ranking Abu Dhabi ranks 5th on the Cities of Choice - Global City Ranking

Abu Dhabi is Ranked #12 of Top Global Cities of the Future Abu Dhabi Ranks 12th Among Financial Times’ “FDi Global Cities Of The Future

ADGM leads the way towards an open economy in Abu Dhabi Exclusive: ADGM on boosting open finance in Abu Dhabi

ADGM's Fintech Abu Dhabi Festival The annual Fintech Abu Dhabi festival will be returning in November 2021 for its 5th edition.

Enigio joins ADGM Digital Lab! Through this membership, Enigio unlocks more financial institutions to connect with and present its trace:original solution.

ADGM-based FinaMaze launches two new investment themes:Cryptocurrency and Inflation Protection The first Robo managing Crypto in the MENA region, has rolled out two new investment themes in response to the market demand.

Abu Dhabi's cost of living has eased for expats

JP Morgan establishes new legal entity in ADGM Global investment bank JP Morgan has set up a new legal entity in Abu Dhabi Global Market as it aims to provide more services to its clients and expands its presence in the emirate.

Abu Dhabi's cost of living has eased for expats The Emirate fell from 39th place in 2020 to secure the 56th spot in 2021 according to the annual Cost of Living survey conducted by global consultancy, Mercer

Abu Dhabi-based venture plans to fund $500m of mining projects in emerging markets Alphastream Partners is a joint venture between the UK's Portman Partners and Abu Dhabi Catalyst Partners

ADGM-based lessor Sirius brushes pandemic aside and buys 10 jets from BOC Aviation The company plans to grow its fleet to 100 aircraft over the next three years

S&P affirms Abu Dhabi's ratings on its robust economic fundamentals and fiscal buffers Credit rating agency expects emirate's fiscal position to remain strong over the next two years despite oil price fluctuations

ADGM's Digital Lab promotes building a more dynamic and innovative economy The interactive Digital Lab platform provides an integrated community of financial institutions, fintech companies, investors, academics and policy makers.

Abu Dhabi's fintech opportunity Focus on governance, innovation and sustainability can propel emirate into new guard of financial capitals, says Juma Al Hameli

UAE and international companies apply for digital banking licences with ADGM The financial hub has awarded licences to five digital asset exchanges and approved five more in principle

ADGM rolls out new measures to help coronavirus-affected companies The new measures include 100 per cent waivers on a number of fees and rent postponements for ADGM Square tenants

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Standing with businesses through unprecedented times

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ADGM fintech & Hub71 startup, Tarabut Gateway, has secured the largest regional fintech seed round and now eyes geographic and product expansion.

ADGM and Finverity bring accessible supply chain finance to SMEs

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Abu Dhabi fintech startups futureproof the ecosystem

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