The revised licensing fee schedule is effective from January 1, 2025
The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has implemented a new fee structure, offering reductions of 50% or more for non-financial and retail licenses within its jurisdiction. Effective from January 1, 2025, these revised fees are part of transitional arrangements specifically aimed at businesses on Al Reem Island. The ADGM, located in the UAE’s capital, encompasses both Al Maryah and Al Reem Island as part of its international financial center.
The updated fee structure introduces substantial reductions for new registrations and annual renewals in the non-financial and retail categories. New registrations in the non-financial category will decrease from $10,000 to $5,000, while annual renewal fees will be reduced from $8,000 to $5,000. Similarly, fees for new registrations in the retail category will drop from $6,000 to $2,000, with renewal fees also lowered to $2,000, representing a 50% reduction across the board.
These revised fees will take effect from January 1 next year, following the expiration of the current fee schedule on December 31.
Previously, qualifying non-financial and retail businesses on Al Reem Island were exempt from ADGM commercial licence fees until October 31, 2024.
Changes in other fee categories include an increase in the financial category from $15,000 to $20,000 for new registrations, and renewal fees rising from $13,000 to $15,000. For tech and fintech startups, both new registrations and renewals will see fees adjusted from $1,000 to $1,500. Fees for the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) category remain unchanged at $1,900.
The ADGM indicated that these fee revisions were formulated following extensive consultations conducted throughout 2023 with a focus group comprising Al Reem Island businesses.
Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, CEO of ADGM’s Registration Authority (RA), commented: “After evaluating the financial implications for various business sectors and previously implementing a fee waiver for qualifying non-financial and retail businesses on Al Reem Island, we have now revised our fee structure to include significant reductions for these categories starting next year. Our objective is to minimize disruptions for businesses transitioning to ADGM licences, ensuring they can operate efficiently within our jurisdiction.
