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Abu Dhabi Mainland (ADDED)
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Licensed activities
Abu Dhabi Mainland doesn’t publish an activity list online. Ask the zone or a setup company.
Frequently asked questions
Who issues a mainland licence in Abu Dhabi?
Mainland licences in Abu Dhabi are issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). Some activities also need approval from another authority before the licence is issued.
How much does a Abu Dhabi mainland licence cost?
We haven’t verified an official mainland price list for Abu Dhabi yet, so we don’t show a figure rather than guess. The total depends on your activity, your office lease and how many visas you need. For a quote, tap “Get help on WhatsApp” on this page, or compare Abu Dhabi free zones that publish their prices.
Should I choose mainland or a free zone in Abu Dhabi?
Mainland suits UAE trading, Abu Dhabi government work. A free zone is usually cheaper and faster if your customers are mainly abroad or online — see free zones in Abu Dhabi.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a mainland company in Abu Dhabi?
For most commercial and professional activities, yes — UAE law has allowed full foreign ownership of mainland companies since 2021. A short list of strategic activities still has ownership limits, so confirm your activity with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) before you apply.