What documents does an American national need to start a hotel management business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United States, attested documents via US Department of State / Secretary of State, and a business plan for your hotel management venture.

How long does it take for an American citizen to set up a hotel management 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.

How long does it take to get a Hotel Management licence in ADGM?

The typical processing time for a hotel management licence at ADGM is 5 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring DTCM approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

Is Abu Dhabi Global Market good for hotel management 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.

What documents do I need to set up a Hotel Management business in ADGM?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by DTCM. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Hotel Management business in Abu Dhabi Global Market?

The annual licence renewal for a Hotel Management ADGM company costs approximately AED 11,700, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Hotel Management company in ADGM?

Most of the setup process for a hotel management business in ADGM can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

Hotel Management in Abu Dhabi Global Market for American nationals

Free ZoneTourismRegulated Activity

Hotel Management in ADGM

Starting From

AED 11,700

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

4 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Hotel Management

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

The licensing process at ADGM has been streamlined significantly, with most tourism 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 hotel management 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 Hotel Management?

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

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

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

International financial centre

Common law jurisdiction

Own courts system

Robust regulatory framework

Abu Dhabi's premier business hub

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. Once your hotel management licence is issued by ADGM, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 10–17 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for American Business Owners

US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. For your hotel management business in ADGM, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving American business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United States-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

American nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through US Department of State / Secretary of State. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for hotel management), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to ADGM.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by US Department of State / Secretary of State

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Relevant industry experience documentation

6Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

Regulatory Note: Hotel Management is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from DTCM is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

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 hotel management business plan and the best ADGM licence options for American nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the hotel management 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. US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.

Start Operations

Your hotel management 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 American nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Hotel Management in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750