Software Development & IT Services License in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
Establishing a **Software Development & IT Services** company in **Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)** (Abu Dhabi) is an effective solution for entrepreneurs seeking rapid market entry without unnecessary administrative hurdles. The freezone framework allows completing legal entity registration within 12 working days using flexible desk arrangements.
Establishing a Software Development & IT Services company in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) (Abu Dhabi) is an effective solution for entrepreneurs seeking rapid market entry without unnecessary administrative hurdles. The freezone framework allows completing legal entity registration within 12 working days using flexible desk arrangements.
1. Regulatory Requirements & Licensing Framework
Direct Freezone Licensing Track
This activity code does not require third-party government NOCs. The commercial license is issued directly by Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).
2. Jurisdiction Specifications
| Criterion | Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) |
|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Type | FREEZONE |
| License Turnaround | 12–20 working days |
| Physical Office | Flexi-Desk (dedicated office not required) |
| Visa Allocation | Up to 10 visas |
| Annual Audit | Mandatory |
| Digital Bank Onboarding | Express digital track (3–7 days) |
| Starting Base Tariff | from 42,000 AED |
3. Setup Roadmap & Timeline
License Issuance
12–20 daysDocument submission and digital license issuance. Timeline: 12–20 working days.
Establishment Card
2–3 daysEstablishment Card registration via immigration portal to unlock visa allocations.
Medical & Emirates ID
4–6 daysVIP medical examination and biometric capture for Emirates ID residency card.
Corporate Bank Account
3–7 daysCorporate banking account activation via Digital Bank flow or Tier-1 bank.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
Is a physical office mandatory for a "Software Development & IT Services" license in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)? ▼
No. Businesses operating under "Software Development & IT Services" in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) can utilize virtual desks or flexi-desk arrangements without a dedicated physical office.
Can I open a digital corporate bank account for a "Software Development & IT Services" license in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)? ▼
Yes. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) licenses for "Software Development & IT Services" maintain high approval rates across UAE digital business banks. Remote onboarding takes 3–7 business days after Emirates ID issuance.
How many residence visas can be issued under a Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) license? ▼
Standard license tiers in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) support from 0 up to 10 residence visas for shareholders and employees without requiring a physical office. Higher quotas are available with dedicated office space upgrades.
Do I need to travel to the UAE to set up a company in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)? ▼
License registration and document preparation in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) are fully remote - only a passport scan is required. A physical visit to the UAE is necessary for the residence visa stage: medical test and Emirates ID biometrics (4–6 working days).
Alternative Jurisdictions for Software Development & IT Services
20 zonesMeydan Free Zone
1–2 days · from 12,500 AED
IFZA Dubai
2–4 days · from 12,900 AED
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
7–12 days · from 32,000 AED
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
14–25 days · from 45,000 AED
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO / DTEC)
3–5 days · from 13,500 AED
Dubai Internet City (DIC)
5–9 days · from 24,500 AED
Dubai Science Park (DSP)
6–10 days · from 24,000 AED
Dubai Outsource City (DOC)
5–8 days · from 21,000 AED
Masdar City Free Zone
3–6 days · from 12,000 AED
Sharjah Publishing City (SPC Free Zone)
1–2 days · from 5,750 AED
Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)
2–3 days · from 5,750 AED
Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP)
2–5 days · from 5,500 AED
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
2–5 days · from 6,000 AED
RAK Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO)
3–6 days · from 14,500 AED
Ajman Media City Free Zone (AMCFZ)
1–3 days · from 5,555 AED
Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ)
2–4 days · from 5,500 AED
Creative City Fujairah
1–3 days · from 5,500 AED
Dubai Mainland (DET)
1–3 days · from 18,500 AED
Abu Dhabi Mainland (ADDED)
2–4 days · from 16,000 AED
Sharjah Mainland (SEDD)
2–5 days · from 14,500 AED