The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has initiated the Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority (ADRA) to further enhance and regulate the business landscape throughout the emirate.
This comes in response to the Abu Dhabi Executive Council’s decision to create ADRA, which is tasked with overseeing the registration of businesses within the emirate and its non-financial economic free zones. Additionally, ADRA will collaborate with pertinent entities to simplify licensing processes. The authority is committed to ensuring complete adherence to laws and regulations applicable in the emirate and its non-financial economic free zones, particularly those relating to anti-money laundering (AML), the prevention of financing for suspicious activities, and the tackling of illicit organizations.
Data management and compliance
ADRA will also establish a comprehensive database that integrates information on economic establishments within the emirate’s mainland and its non-financial free zones. This initiative is designed to enhance the management of the commercial registry, optimize licensing processes for economic establishments, oversee regulatory affairs, and guarantee compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
Digital solutions for business growth
By harnessing advanced digital solutions, ADRA will promote the establishment, operation, and growth of businesses, thereby encouraging investment and nurturing a dynamic ecosystem for the business sector. Furthermore, it will introduce innovative types of licenses, opening avenues to attract talent, investors, and entrepreneurs, allowing them to capitalize on the emirate’s diverse and thriving economy.
His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), stated: “The establishment of ADRA marks a new milestone in Abu Dhabi’s remarkable economic journey. As an arm of ADDED, ADRA supports our initiatives to accelerate the emirate’s economic growth and diversification by offering streamlined procedures, expert guidance, and access to a thriving business ecosystem.
Enhancing Abu Dhabi’s economic landscape
“ADRA embodies the emirate’s vision to strengthen its position as a leading destination for talent, investment, and business, empowering businesses to expand locally and globally, and access new markets. ADRA also plays a pivotal role in attracting new investments across key sectors, contributing to the realization of Abu Dhabi’s economic vision. It ensures compliance with international standards and global regulations by all economic establishments in the emirate’s mainland and non-financial economic free zones, reflecting our commitment to further enhance transparency and provide accurate data for policymakers, researchers, and businesses to support informed, data-driven decision-making.”
Ensuring comprehensive compliance
Additionally, ADRA guarantees compliance with local, federal, and international standards and regulations across all businesses located in the emirate’s mainland and its non-financial economic free zones. The authority will further contribute to the distinctive qualities of Abu Dhabi’s thriving Falcon Economy, solidifying its status as the preferred destination for talent, investors, and enterprises.
