Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM): Free Zone Jurisdiction in the United Arab Emirates for International Holding Companies

Private Wealth Planning and Asset Structuring

Abu Dhabi as a Jurisdiction for Holding Companies

Since opening for business in October 2015, Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) quickly gained international recognition as a corporate jurisdiction for its business-friendly, yet robust, ecosystem for international holding companies.

ADGM is the first jurisdiction in the Middle East to directly apply English Common Law (similar to the approach taken by Singapore and Hong Kong) resulting in a coherent and predictable legal framework (here) modelled on the principles of equity and featuring respected UK judges (here).

Situated on Al Maryah Island (here), a designated financial free zone, the ADGM comprises three independent authorities which are (i) the ADGM Courts (here) (ii) the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (here) and (iii) the Registration Authority (here).