What documents does a Filipino national need to start a marketing consultancy business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Philippines passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Philippines, attested documents via Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and a business plan for your marketing consultancy venture.

How long does it take for a Filipino citizen to set up a marketing 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.

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

The typical processing time for a marketing consultancy 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.

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

The total setup cost for a Marketing 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.

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

Yes, your marketing 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.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my ADGM Marketing 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.

What documents do I need to set up a Marketing Consultancy 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. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Marketing Consultancy in Abu Dhabi Global Market for Filipino nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Marketing Consultancy in ADGM

Starting From

AED 11,700

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

4 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Marketing Consultancy

As a Filipino national looking to establish a Marketing Consultancy business in Abu Dhabi Global Market, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Philippines has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Filipino professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Abu Dhabi's commercial laws, your Marketing Consultancy business will benefit from international financial centre and common law jurisdiction. The ADGM licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 11,700.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your marketing consultancy setup in ADGM. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why ADGM for Marketing Consultancy?

There are several compelling reasons why Abu Dhabi Global Market continues to attract marketing consultancy entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers international financial centre, which is particularly valuable for marketing 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 marketing consultancy professionals. Furthermore, robust regulatory framework positions your marketing 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 Filipino nationals specifically, the Abu Dhabi government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Filipino business community.

International financial centre

Common law jurisdiction

Own courts system

Robust regulatory framework

Abu Dhabi's premier business hub

Visa Requirements for Filipino Nationals

Filipino nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. Once your marketing consultancy 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 Filipino Business Owners

Filipino entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation. A solid business plan helps expedite the process. For your marketing consultancy business in ADGM, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Filipino business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Philippines-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Filipino Nationals

Filipino nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for marketing consultancy), 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 Philippines passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

6Detailed business plan or activity description

7Signed application form from ADGM authority

8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

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 marketing consultancy business plan and the best ADGM licence options for Filipino nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Philippines through Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the marketing 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. Filipino nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

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

Start Operations

Your marketing 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 Filipino nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Marketing Consultancy in Other Jurisdictions

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