What documents does an Italian national need to start a legal consultancy business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Italy passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Italy, attested documents via Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Prefettura, and a business plan for your legal consultancy venture.

How long does it take for an Italian citizen to set up a legal consultancy 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.

Can I get a residence visa with my Legal Consultancy licence from ADGM?

Yes, your legal consultancy 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.

How long does it take to get a Legal Consultancy licence in ADGM?

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

How much does it cost to set up a Legal Consultancy business in Abu Dhabi Global Market?

The total setup cost for a Legal Consultancy 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.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Legal Consultancy business in Abu Dhabi Global Market?

The annual licence renewal for a Legal Consultancy 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.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my ADGM Legal Consultancy licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from ADGM, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

Legal Consultancy in Abu Dhabi Global Market for Italian nationals

Free ZoneProfessionalRegulated Activity

Legal Consultancy in ADGM

Starting From

AED 11,700

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

4 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Legal Consultancy

Setting up a Legal Consultancy business in Abu Dhabi Global Market as an Italian citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Italy-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Italian 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 legal consultancy 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 Legal Consultancy?

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 legal consultancy 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 legal consultancy professionals. Furthermore, robust regulatory framework positions your legal consultancy 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 Italian nationals specifically, the Abu Dhabi government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Italian business community.

International financial centre

Common law jurisdiction

Own courts system

Robust regulatory framework

Abu Dhabi's premier business hub

Visa Requirements for Italian Nationals

For Italian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Italian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your legal consultancy business in ADGM.

Banking for Italian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your legal consultancy company in ADGM: Italian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. EU banking standards are recognised by UAE banks. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Italian business structures.

Document Attestation for Italian Nationals

Document attestation for Italian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Italy, (2) Attestation by Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Prefettura, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to legal consultancy businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Italy passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Prefettura

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Detailed business plan or activity description

5Passport-sized photographs with white background

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

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

8Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Legal Affairs Department

Regulatory Note: Legal Consultancy is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Dubai Legal Affairs Department 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 legal consultancy business plan and the best ADGM licence options for Italian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Italy through Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Prefettura and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the legal consultancy 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. Italian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Italian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

Start Operations

Your legal consultancy 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 Italian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Legal Consultancy in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

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RAKEZ

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DIFC

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Abu Dhabi DED

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JAFZA

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Dubai DED

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DMCC

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IFZA

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