ADGM Registration Authority & English Common Law Compliant
ADGM Foundation & SPV Asset Protection Guide
Authoritative guide on Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Special Purpose Vehicles and Foundations — English Common Law framework, holding company structuring, and family wealth preservation.
ADGM Legal Structure Comparator
Select a structure to evaluate registration fees, legal purpose, and office requirements.
ADGM Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV)
Holding corporate equity, real estate assets, IP rights, or structuring cross-border investments under English Common Law.
- Government Fee: USD 1,600 – 3,000 annual license fee
- Office Requirement: No physical office required (can use an ADGM corporate service provider address).
ADGM Jurisdiction Matrix
| Feature | ADGM SPV / Foundation | Traditional Offshore (BVI/Cayman) |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Basis | Direct application of English Common Law | Local offshore statutory law |
| Onshore UAE Real Estate | Recognized by Abu Dhabi DMM & Dubai DLD | Restricted / Requires extra approvals |
| Tax Residency Certificate | Eligible for Ministry of Finance TRC | Generally Not Eligible |
Frequently Asked Questions
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is an international financial center operating under English Common Law. It features independent ADGM Courts, zero withholding tax, direct enforcement of contracts, and world-class asset protection for SPVs and Foundations.
No. ADGM SPVs are exempt from physical office lease requirements provided they appoint an authorized ADGM Corporate Services Provider (CSP) to provide registered office address services.