What documents does a Pakistani national need to start a ai & machine learning business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Pakistan passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Pakistan, attested documents via Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan, and a business plan for your ai & machine learning venture.

How long does it take for a Pakistani citizen to set up a ai & machine learning company in ADGM?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 5–8 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 15–25 business days.

What are the tax implications for an AI & Machine Learning business in Abu Dhabi Global Market?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in ADGM may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Is Abu Dhabi Global Market good for ai & machine learning start-ups?

ADGM is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering international financial centre and common law jurisdiction. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 15,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

How much does it cost to set up an AI & Machine Learning business in Abu Dhabi Global Market?

The total setup cost for an AI & Machine Learning business in ADGM starts from approximately AED 11,700 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 5,500 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

How long does it take to get a AI & Machine Learning licence in ADGM?

The typical processing time for a ai & machine learning licence at ADGM is 5 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.

Can I get a residence visa with my AI & Machine Learning licence from ADGM?

Yes, your ai & machine learning licence from ADGM entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 4 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,500.

AI & Machine Learning in Abu Dhabi Global Market for Pakistani nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

AI & Machine Learning in ADGM

Starting From

AED 11,700

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

4 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About AI & Machine Learning

Setting up an AI & Machine Learning business in Abu Dhabi Global Market as a Pakistani citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Pakistan-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Pakistani business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at ADGM has been streamlined significantly, with most professional licences processed within 5 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 11,700, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your ai & machine learning business in Abu Dhabi Global Market. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why ADGM for AI & Machine Learning?

Abu Dhabi Global Market is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for professional businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers international financial centre, which is particularly valuable for ai & machine learning operations. Additionally, common law jurisdiction ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 15,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 4 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Own courts system further enhances the appeal of ADGM for ai & machine learning professionals. Furthermore, robust regulatory framework positions your ai & machine learning business for long-term success in the region. With Abu Dhabi continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, ADGM remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Pakistani nationals specifically, the Abu Dhabi government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Pakistani business community.

International financial centre

Common law jurisdiction

Own courts system

Robust regulatory framework

Abu Dhabi's premier business hub

Visa Requirements for Pakistani Nationals

For Pakistani entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Pakistani nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Business visa or residence visa can be sponsored by the company once incorporated. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your ai & machine learning business in ADGM.

Banking for Pakistani Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your ai & machine learning company in ADGM: Pakistani entrepreneurs can open corporate bank accounts with standard documentation. Some banks may require additional proof of business activity. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Pakistani business structures.

Document Attestation for Pakistani Nationals

Document attestation for Pakistani nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Pakistan, (2) Attestation by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to ai & machine learning businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Pakistan passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Signed application form from ADGM authority

5Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

6Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

7Passport-sized photographs with white background

8Detailed business plan or activity description

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	11,700
Visa Package (per visa)	5,500
Flexi Desk	15,000
Shared Office	30,000
Private Office	70,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 32,200

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your ai & machine learning business plan and the best ADGM licence options for Pakistani nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Pakistan through Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the ai & machine learning licence application to ADGM. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official ADGM trade licence within 5–8 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Pakistani nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Pakistani entrepreneurs can open corporate bank accounts with standard documentation.

Start Operations

Your ai & machine learning business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. ADGM allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Pakistani nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

AI & Machine Learning in Other Jurisdictions

DIC

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RAKEZ

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DIFC

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SHAMS

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JAFZA

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DMCC

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IFZA

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DSO

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