The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is a common-law financial free zone with its own regulator — the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) — and one of the region’s earliest and most developed digital-asset frameworks. We help financial services, fintech, fund and digital-asset businesses assess, structure and obtain an ADGM presence and FSRA authorisation.
Who this is for
Fintechs, asset managers, fund platforms, payment businesses and digital-asset firms considering an ADGM structure or an FSRA-regulated activity — particularly international groups that value ADGM’s direct application of English common law.
What we do
- Assess whether your activity requires an FSRA Financial Services Permission — and under which category.
- Prepare and manage the authorisation application: regulatory business plan, financial projections, key-person appointments and regulator engagement.
- Advise on ADGM’s virtual-asset framework — in place since 2018 — including how it treats the assets you intend to deal in.
- Structure ADGM entities, SPVs and funds, from incorporation to governance documents.
- Support ongoing regulatory compliance once you are authorised.
Why businesses choose ADGM
ADGM applies English common law directly, operates independent courts, and offers a mature, internationally respected regulatory environment for both traditional financial services and digital assets. For funds and structured vehicles, its SPV and fund regimes are among the most flexible in the region. The trade-off: FSRA sets a high bar for authorisation — preparation quality matters.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between ADGM and mainland UAE regulation?
ADGM is a financial free zone with its own common-law legal system and regulator (FSRA). Mainland financial activities fall under federal regulators such as the CMA and the Central Bank. Which is right for you depends on your activities and target market — we help you compare before you commit.
Does ADGM regulate crypto businesses?
Yes — ADGM introduced a dedicated framework for virtual-asset activities in 2018, covering exchanges, custodians, brokers and other intermediaries, with specific rules on which assets can be used in regulated activity.
Can I set up an investment fund in ADGM?
Yes. ADGM offers a full funds regime, from qualified-investor funds to public funds, plus flexible SPV structures. See our fund and investment structure service.