What documents does a British national need to start a warehousing business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United Kingdom, attested documents via Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and a business plan for your warehousing venture.

How long does it take for a British citizen to set up a warehousing 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 much does it cost to set up a Warehousing business in Abu Dhabi Global Market?

The total setup cost for a Warehousing 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 documents do I need to set up a Warehousing 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.

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

Yes, your warehousing 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 Warehousing licence in ADGM?

The typical processing time for a warehousing 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.

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

Warehousing in Abu Dhabi Global Market for British nationals

Free ZoneTransport

Warehousing in ADGM

Starting From

AED 11,700

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

4 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Warehousing

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

As a free zone entity regulated under Abu Dhabi's commercial laws, your Warehousing 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 warehousing 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 Warehousing?

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

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

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

International financial centre

Common law jurisdiction

Own courts system

Robust regulatory framework

Abu Dhabi's premier business hub

Visa Requirements for British Nationals

For British entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 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 warehousing business in ADGM.

Banking for British Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your warehousing company in ADGM: British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. UK-regulated banking history is viewed favourably by UAE banks. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand British business structures.

Document Attestation for British Nationals

Document attestation for British nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in United Kingdom, (2) Attestation by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to warehousing businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Detailed business plan or activity description

7Passport-sized photographs with white background

8Signed application form from ADGM authority

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 warehousing business plan and the best ADGM licence options for British nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United Kingdom through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the warehousing 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. British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

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

Start Operations

Your warehousing 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 British nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Warehousing in Other Jurisdictions

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Dubai DED

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DMCC

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IFZA

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