Financial Consultancy in Abu Dhabi Mainland
MainlandProfessionalRegulated Activity

Financial Consultancy in Abu Dhabi DED

Starting From

AED 10,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Financial Consultancy

Entrepreneurs seeking to start a Financial Consultancy business in the UAE will find Abu Dhabi Mainland to be one of the most attractive jurisdictions, thanks to its strategic location and comprehensive support services.

Operating from Abu Dhabi Mainland gives your Financial Consultancy business access to Abu Dhabi's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from SCA before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up financial consultancy businesses in Abu Dhabi Mainland since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why Abu Dhabi DED for Financial Consultancy?

Choosing Abu Dhabi DED for your financial consultancy business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers capital city strategic advantage, which is particularly valuable for financial consultancy operations. Additionally, government project access ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. Operating on the mainland allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions, and you can bid on government contracts — a significant advantage over free zone entities. Office solutions start from AED 6,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Trade anywhere in UAE further enhances the appeal of Abu Dhabi DED for financial consultancy professionals. Furthermore, growing economic diversification positions your financial consultancy business for long-term success in the region. With Abu Dhabi continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Abu Dhabi DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

Capital city strategic advantage
Government project access
Trade anywhere in UAE
Growing economic diversification
100% foreign ownership

Requirements & Documents

1Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
2Professional qualification certificates or approvals from SCA
3Detailed business plan or activity description
4Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
5Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address
6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
7Completed application form for trade licence
8Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

Regulatory Note: Financial Consultancy is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from SCA is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee10,000
Visa Package (per visa)4,000
Ejari Office12,000
Co-Working6,000
Private Office25,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 26,000

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

Setup Timeline

1

Initial Consultation

Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your financial consultancy business objectives, optimal licence structure, and Abu Dhabi DED as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.

2

Choose Your Company Name

Select your company name and submit it for approval. The DED naming guidelines require the name to reflect the legal structure and activity. Reserved and restricted words require additional approvals. IBA handles the name reservation process.

3

Prepare & Submit Documents

Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. For financial consultancy, additional documents including professional qualifications and SCA approvals are required. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.

4

Obtain Trade Licence

Following DED approval, your Abu Dhabi mainland trade licence is issued within 3 business days. The licence authorises you to conduct financial consultancy activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 10,000.

5

Apply for Residence Visa

Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. The number of visas depends on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 4,000. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.

6

Open Corporate Bank Account

With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.

7

Start Operations

With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your financial consultancy business in Abu Dhabi Mainland is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.

Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

The total setup cost for a Financial Consultancy business in Abu Dhabi DED starts from approximately AED 10,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 4,000 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for financial consultancy in Abu Dhabi DED:

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your financial consultancy in Abu Dhabi DED? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionAbu Dhabi DED
Typemainland
EmirateAbu Dhabi
License FeeAED 10,000
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code66190

Official Source

added.gov.ae

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

Ready to Start Your Financial Consultancy?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your financial consultancy in Abu Dhabi DED. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.