Is Now the Right Time to Set up a Business in Abu Dhabi?

In a word? Yes.

Abu Dhabi is a city on the move. Traditionally somewhat overlooked by the ‘glamourous allure’ of Dubai, the capital of the UAE has steadily been establishing itself as a destination that is not to be missed. Recently, its emphasis on a diversified economy and its investment in emerging technology, key industries and infrastructure have underscored its capacity for opportunity. International expats, business owners and investors are now looking to Abu Dhabi as the ideal place in which to live and work, with unrivalled connectivity and benefits. At EER Middle East, the number of enquiries we receive about Abu Dhabi is certainly on the rise, so we wanted to take a brief look at what makes the city so special and why now is the right time for you to set up a business in Abu Dhabi.

Going Beyond Oil

Abu Dhabi echoes the UAE’s ethos that stability and a focus on the future is what will set you apart on the global playing field. That is why the city continues to hit major milestones in its strategic diversification of its economy. In fact, Q3 of 2024 saw non-oil activities contribute 54% of the overall economy. The city is also highly focused on attracting key sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, AgTech, life sciences, logistics and industrial business. Initiatives like those offered by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) support businesses looking to set up in Abu Dhabi by providing land, factories and other essential infrastructure elements. Ultimately the city is cultivating an enviable business environment that promotes ambition, sustainability and innovation.

A Top-Tier Destination

There are ample reasons to be excited about the chance to set up a business in Abu Dhabi. Given its geographical positioning, it offers seamless access to key markets, both developed and emerging, across the east and west and two thirds of the world’s population can be reached within an eight-hour flight radius. The strength of its economy, one of the fastest growing in the MENA region, and its inclusive business policies are also strong indicators for future prosperity. It is also equipped with efficient regulatory processes and a wealth of highly skilled talent for employers to choose from. But it also has some of the highest rankings on lifestyle. The attractive climate is further enhanced by luxury homes, excellent schools, endless dining, leisure and cultural activities, world-class entertainment and beautiful beaches, parks, hikes and natural habitats to explore.

Key Facts that Make Abu Dhabi Stand Out

It is the safest city in the world and has been since 2017

It is the smartest city in MENA and 13^th globally

It is one of the world’s top 5 cities for expats

It accounts for approx. two thirds of the UAE’s economy

It is a sustainability leader – Masdar City is the world’s first zero-carbon, zero-waste, car-free city

How EER Middle East Can Help

Businesses of all shapes and sizes are looking towards Abu Dhabi for its unique opportunities and our team are handling multiple enquiries from a wide variety of clients. Many are interested in moving their business to the capital or expanding their regional reach with a well-placed office. Others are looking for the right location in which to spread their entrepreneurial wings and launch a startup that can benefit from the city’s valuable commercial incentives and abundant marketplace. This is a huge part of why we offer such a comprehensive range of corporate services, so we can assist all of our clients with their particular needs. From providing expert guidance on how to set up a business in Abu Dhabi to ensuring full compliance with documentation requirements, finding premises to securing the right visas, licenses and permits, our team can adapt to offer support where you need it the most. For those looking to move themselves and their family to Abu Dhabi, we can also help with relocation, immigration, visas, residency, schooling and searching for the right home.

Abu Dhabi really is one of the world’s most compelling and energetic cities with so much potential and diversity, not to mention one of the best quality lifestyles you can imagine – so the question becomes….

Isn’t it time you made the move to Abu Dhabi?

If you are interested in finding out more information about how to set up a business in Abu Dhabi, our range of corporate services or would like to discuss options with one of our expert team, including any relocation or immigration needs, please get in touch on +971 (0)4 421 1819 or info@eerme.com