Gym & Fitness in Abu Dhabi Global Market
Free ZoneServicesRegulated Activity

Gym & Fitness in ADGM

Starting From

AED 11,700

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

4 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Gym & Fitness

Entrepreneurs seeking to start a Gym & Fitness business in the UAE will find Abu Dhabi Global Market to be one of the most attractive jurisdictions, thanks to its strategic location and comprehensive support services.

Operating from Abu Dhabi Global Market gives your Gym & Fitness business access to Abu Dhabi's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from Dubai Sports Council before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up gym & fitness businesses in Abu Dhabi Global Market 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 ADGM for Gym & Fitness?

Choosing ADGM for your gym & fitness business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers international financial centre, which is particularly valuable for gym & fitness 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 gym & fitness professionals. Furthermore, robust regulatory framework positions your gym & fitness 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 services enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

International financial centre
Common law jurisdiction
Own courts system
Robust regulatory framework
Abu Dhabi's premier business hub

Requirements & Documents

1Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
2Signed application form from ADGM authority
3Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
4Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
5Completed application form for trade licence
6Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Sports Council
7Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
8Passport-sized photographs with white background

Regulatory Note: Gym & Fitness is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Dubai Sports Council is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee11,700
Visa Package (per visa)5,500
Flexi Desk15,000
Shared Office30,000
Private Office70,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 32,200

* 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 gym & fitness business objectives, optimal licence structure, and ADGM 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. ADGM has specific naming guidelines — the name must not conflict with existing registrations and should reflect your business activity. IBA handles the name reservation process.

3

Prepare & Submit Documents

Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. For gym & fitness, additional documents including professional qualifications and Dubai Sports Council approvals are required. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.

4

Obtain Trade Licence

Your ADGM trade licence is issued within 5 business days of document submission. The licence authorises you to conduct gym & fitness activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 11,700.

5

Apply for Residence Visa

Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Your ADGM licence includes 4 visa allocation. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,500. 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 gym & fitness business in Abu Dhabi Global Market is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.

Total estimated time: 5 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 Gym & Fitness 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.

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for gym & fitness in ADGM:

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your gym & fitness in ADGM? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionADGM
TypeFree Zone
EmirateAbu Dhabi
License FeeAED 11,700
Setup Time5 days
Visa Quota4
Activity Code96030

Official Source

www.adgm.com

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 Gym & Fitness?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your gym & fitness in ADGM. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.