What documents does an Italian national need to start a property management 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 property management venture.

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

Can I get a residence visa with my Property Management licence from ADGM?

Yes, your property management 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.

What are the tax implications for a Property Management business in Abu Dhabi Global Market?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in ADGM may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

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

Most of the setup process for a property 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.

Is Abu Dhabi Global Market good for property 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.

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

The total setup cost for a Property Management 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.

Property Management in Abu Dhabi Global Market for Italian nationals

Free ZoneReal EstateRegulated Activity

Property Management in ADGM

Starting From

AED 11,700

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

4 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Property Management

The UAE continues to attract Italian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and ADGM is one of the most popular jurisdictions for property management operations. Growing Italian business community (~15,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Abu Dhabi Global Market gives your Property Management 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 RERA before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up property management 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 Property Management?

Choosing ADGM for your property management 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 property 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 property management professionals. Furthermore, robust regulatory framework positions your property 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 real estate 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 property management business in ADGM.

Banking for Italian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your property management 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 property management 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

5Completed application form for trade licence

6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

7Relevant industry experience documentation

8Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

Regulatory Note: Property Management is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from RERA 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 property management 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 property 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. 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 property 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 Italian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Property 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