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What Is a Holding Company in ADGM
A Holding Company in ADGM is a corporate structure used to own shares of other companies without managing day-to-day operations ideal for asset protection, global structuring, and wealth management. ADGM offers both Private Company Limited by Shares and SPV structures for this purpose
Why Choose ADGM for Your Holding Company?
ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) combines:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Zero corporate & personal tax (subject to qualifying conditions)
- No withholding tax on dividends, interest, or royalties
- A legal framework based on English common law
- Unlimited capital repatriation, modern infrastructure, and top-tier compliance standards
These benefits make ADGM a standout choice for international investors and family offices.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Set Up a Holding Company in ADGM
Step 1: Choose Your Structure
- Private Company Limited by Shares: for operational flexibility.
- SPV: ideal for passive holding, isolating assets must prove nexus to UAE/GCC
Step 2: Legal Requirements
- Reserve your company name on ADGM’s portal
- Submit Articles of Association, UBO disclosures, KYC documents, business plan (for SPVs), and lease proof for an ADGM office
Step 3: Incorporation & Registration
- Submit and pay via ADGM's online system
- Typical approval within 5–10 business days
Step 4: Post-Incorporation Setup
- Lease office (flexi‑desk or full office)
- Apply for an Establishment Card and visas
- Open a corporate bank account
- Register for tax and data protection (if applicable)
Compliance & Governance Must-Dos
To stay in good standing, you must:
- File annual accounts and audits (as required)
- Submit Economic Substance Reports and beneficial ownership disclosures
- Comply with KYC, AML, employment laws, and new whistleblower protections
- Renew your trade license, office lease, and data protection registration annually
Tax & Financial Highlights
- 0% corporate tax for qualifying free zone entities
- No withholding tax on outbound dividends, interest, or royalties
- No capital gains tax on share disposals ideal for portfolio management
- Must comply with new OECD global minimum tax if part of large MNEs
Common Questions (Quick FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Need minimum capital? | No mandatory minimum |
| Sole shareholder allowed? | Yes, 100% foreign ownership |
| Setup timeline? | Typically 5–10 business days |
| Bank account required? | Yes, for financial operations |
| Annual audit necessary? | Yes, if it meets audit thresholds |
| Can hold foreign assets? | Yes, both UAE and international |
Partnering with J K Management Consultancies
At J K Management Consultancies, we guide you through every phase of forming your Holding Company in ADGM:
- Strategic structuring advice
- Licensing support and documentation handling
- Office setup assistance
- Visa, banking, tax, PRO, and compliance services
We make your establishment fast, compliant, and strategically sound.
Kickstart Your Holding Company in ADGM Today
The Holding Company in ADGM is your next step toward smart global structuring. Let J K Management Consultancies handle the complexities, so you can focus on growth.
Contact us now for a free consultation
