Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has introduced major reductions in commercial licence fees for non-financial and retail businesses starting 1st January 2025. The move is designed to make ADGM’s jurisdiction, which includes Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands, more attractive for businesses and entrepreneurs.

Under the revised fee structure, non-financial businesses will see initial registration fees drop from $10,000 to $5,500, while annual renewal fees will fall from $8,000 to $5,000. Retail businesses will benefit from even greater cuts, with initial registration fees reduced from $6,000 to $2,500 and renewal fees from $4,000 to $2,000.

This initiative follows extensive consultations conducted in 2023 with ADGM’s business community. The Registration Authority undertook a review to align the fee adjustments with the evolving needs of the business ecosystem. The updated structure comes after the Al Reem Island transitional period ended on 31st December 2024, which also marked the discontinuation of fee exemptions for qualifying non-financial and retail businesses.

Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, CEO of ADGM Registration Authority, said in a statement to WAM, “The revised fee structure reflects our commitment to supporting businesses within ADGM’s thriving jurisdiction. By significantly reducing fees for non-financial and retail categories, we aim to cultivate a vibrant and efficient business ecosystem.”

The updated schedule also includes changes for other categories. Financial businesses will see their registration fees increase from $15,000 to $16,700, with annual renewals rising from $13,000 to $16,200. Meanwhile, tech startups will face a modest adjustment, with fees increasing from $1,000 to $1,500 for both new registrations and renewals.

Additionally, a $300 data protection fee will continue to apply to all categories during both registration and renewal.

With these changes, ADGM aims to strengthen its position as a leading international financial hub while promoting ease of business for companies of all sizes.