Setting up in Abu Dhabi: ADGM, KEZAD, Masdar, twofour54 and Hub71

Abu Dhabi offers a different mix from Dubai: deep capital, government-backed programmes and several specialist zones.

Where companies set up

• ADGM: an international financial centre with common-law courts, suited to finance, fintech and holding structures
• KEZAD: industrial, logistics and manufacturing zones
• Masdar City Free Zone: clean energy, sustainability and technology
• twofour54: media, gaming and content companies
• Abu Dhabi mainland, licensed through the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development

Hub71

Hub71 is Abu Dhabi's tech ecosystem, offering selected startups incentive packages, access to investors and corporate partners.

Dubai or Abu Dhabi?

Choose based on where your customers, partners and investors are. Many founders sell across both emirates, so your marketing should work in both.

Rules, fees and processes change often. Confirm the details with the relevant authority or a licensed adviser before you commit.