Abu Dhabi
DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC
Development
About the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED)
The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development is a great partner for entrepreneurs and businesses who are looking to get a foothold into Abu Dhabi’s thriving economic environment.
ADDED was established in 2008 and is a key driver of Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision 2030. The strategic roadmap of ADDED aims to diversify the Emirate’s economy while reducing its dependence on hydrocarbons. It is primarily in charge of issuing Abu Dhabi DED licences and registering business on Abu Dhabi Mainland. ADDED is proactive in its role, and proposes data-driven policies to promote growth in various sectors. This includes encouraging innovation and collaboration by forming strategic partnerships with regional or international stakeholders.
Abu Dhabi DED is unique in that it has a central hub, launched in 2013, to speed up the issuance of licenses and renewals. The center provides a seamless investment experience, including spacious waiting areas, efficient desks, and on site banking facilities. The Department of Economic Development in Abu Dhabi’s main achievement is to encourage both local and foreign investors for the expansion of their businesses. The business-friendly environment in the Emirate is what encourages investors to invest.
What is an Abu Dhabi DED License?
The Abu Dhabi DED License (also known as the economic license) is your official permit for operating a business on Abu Dhabi’s mainland, excluding free zones. This license is issued by the Department of Economic Development Abu Dhabi and verifies that your business is legitimate and adheres to local regulations.
You can choose between a general trading license, an industrial license, a professional licence, or an e-commerce licensing depending on the type of business you are running. ADDED provides an “Instant Licence” option to streamline applications in certain sectors. This license is vital for any company or entrepreneur who wants to take part in Abu Dhabi’s booming commercial landscape. Not obtaining this DED licence can cause legal risks and harm the legitimacy of their business.
Depending on your business activity, you might choose from general trading, industrial, professional, or e-commerce licenses. ADDED offers an “Instant License” option for streamlined applications in select sectors. This license is essential for any entrepreneur or company seeking to participate in Abu Dhabi’s flourishing commercial landscape, where not taking this DED license can harm legitimacy and cause legal risks.
Why the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED)?
There are many benefits to joining the Abu Dhabi DED. They will help you to establish connections with regional and international partners that can lead to new opportunities. It is also one of the top destinations for company formation. Data-driven insights are also used to create policies that will propel your business’ growth in your particular sector.
ADDED Services in Abu Dhabi
The services offered by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Economic Development (ADDED) for businesses can be categorized into four main groups.
Benefits of an ADDED company setup in Abu Dhabi
Easey and Trouble-Free Recruitment.
ADDED simplifies the process of obtaining work permits and visas, making it easier for you to hire and attract skilled talent from overseas. It reduces your administrative burdens, allowing you to concentrate on building up your team
100% Repatriation of Capital and Profits
ADDED, unlike some other regions, allows you to repatriate your capital invested and all profits from your business. This financial freedom gives you peace of mind, and encourages investment over the long term
Low Cost of Starting a Business
ADDED strives to keep startup costs low, with licensing fees that are competitive and minimum initial capital requirements. Abu Dhabi is therefore a great option for startups and entrepreneurs.
No Annual Audits (for certain companies):
Some companies with low risk registered through ADDED are exempted from the annual audit requirement. It reduces the accounting burden, and costs associated with it. Consult an accountant to see if your business qualifies.
Low Import Duty
Abu Dhabi has a competitive structure for import duties, which can reduce your operating costs significantly, especially if you depend on equipment or raw materials from overseas.
Investment Environment
ADDED creates a business environment that is conducive to foreign investment. This includes tax breaks, guarantees of investment protection, and access government funding programs.
Exclusive Access to Raw Material Processor Sites:
ADDED can facilitate the access to certain areas designated for raw material processing in certain sectors, depending on the specific agreements. It can be a great benefit to companies in resource-intensive industries.
Specialized Economic Zones
Abu Dhabi has a number of economic zones that cater to certain industries. These zones offer tailored benefits, such as reduced licensing costs, streamlined customs processes, and access industry-specific infrastructure.
Capacity for Producing Electricity
Abu Dhabi makes significant investments in its electricity grid to ensure a reliable, efficient and consistent supply. It is essential for businesses who require high-quality and consistent power to run their operations.
Top Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development Activities (ADDED).
Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of business opportunities
The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development is a policy architect that creates data-driven strategies for economic growth in diverse sectors.
ADDED is more than just a simple registration. They are experts in analyzing your dominant activity to tailor the licensing process. This will ensure that your business is operating under the best framework. ADDED is flexible, unlike some other regions. As long as the activities are aligned or permissions have been obtained, it is possible to merge industrial, commercial and professional sectors. It streamlines the process and lets you pursue your vision easily.
The Department of Economic Development in Abu Dhabi caters to many sectors. From traditional trading (import/export wholesale/retail), manufacturing (food, machinery), to a vibrant service sector (IT consulting and real estate). They encourage innovation and collaboration by connecting businesses to regional and international partners in order to unlock new opportunities.