What documents does a Filipino national need to start a textile trading 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 textile trading venture.

How long does it take for a Filipino citizen to set up a textile trading 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 open a corporate bank account with my ADGM Textile Trading 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 are the tax implications for a Textile Trading 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.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Textile Trading company in Abu Dhabi Global Market?

Yes, ADGM allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

Can I get a residence visa with my Textile Trading licence from ADGM?

Yes, your textile trading 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.

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

Most of the setup process for a textile trading 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.

Textile Trading in Abu Dhabi Global Market for Filipino nationals

Free ZoneCommercial

Textile Trading in ADGM

Starting From

AED 11,700

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

4 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Textile Trading

As a Filipino national looking to establish a Textile Trading 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 Textile Trading 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 textile trading 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 Textile Trading?

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

The jurisdiction offers international financial centre, which is particularly valuable for textile trading 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 textile trading professionals. Furthermore, robust regulatory framework positions your textile trading 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 commercial 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

For Filipino entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Filipino nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your textile trading business in ADGM.

Banking for Filipino Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your textile trading company in ADGM: Filipino entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation. A solid business plan helps expedite the process. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Filipino business structures.

Document Attestation for Filipino Nationals

Document attestation for Filipino nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Philippines, (2) Attestation by Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to textile trading businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Philippines passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Signed application form from ADGM authority

5Passport-sized photographs with white background

6Completed application form for trade licence

7Detailed business plan or activity description

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 textile trading 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 textile trading 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 textile trading 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.

Textile Trading 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