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Every business comes with risks, especially for entrepreneurs building something of their own. Assets and liabilities can be fragile, which is why it is so important to have the right structure in place to protect your company from legal and financial risks.
The UAE, known for having one of the safest and most stable economies in the world, offers a range of modern business structures designed to help companies stay secure. One of the most trending options is the SPV company set up. An SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) is a separate legal entity created to isolate specific risks. If the SPV faces any legal or financial issues, its shareholders or sister companies remains unaffected.
ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market), an award-winning financial center in Abu Dhabi, offers SPV setups that are flexible, strong and efficient, making them an ideal choice for startups and investors looking for smart solutions.
ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) is an innovative, modern, and forward-thinking business center located in the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi. It offers a perfect blend of a world-class lifestyle, tax-friendly policies, and a pro-business environment, making it a top choice for entrepreneurs in 2025.
ADGM operates under its own commercial and civil laws, based on English common law. The Registration Authority manages business setup and licensing, while the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) oversees financial services. At the same time, ADGM Courts provide a robust legal system businesses can trust.
A strong and transparent regulatory framework, supporting both financial and non-financial institutions, is what sets ADGM apart!
An SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) is a separate legal entity created by an organization or individual, which has its own assets and liabilities separate from the owner or sister/parent companies. They are created for various purposes, such as to establish subsidiaries, hold assets, manage projects, or form joint ventures.
ADGM has introduced the SPV regime for various types of businesses, uses, and industries. Because SPVs have a separate legal status, they offer complete financial and legal risk protection to their shareholders and parent/sister companies.
Features of ADGM SPVs:
SPVs in ADGM are commonly created for the following purposes:
An SPV can be a means to hold investments in companies in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and many other countries around the world. Investments can be held in the form of convertibles, warrants, underwritings, and so on.
Relocation and redomicile of companies to ADGM from other jurisdictions.
You can raise finance through an SPV, where the creditworthiness of the SPV will be under review, not that of the parent company. This allows financing without changes to the capital structure of the parent company.
An SPV company set up can be used to buy and hold title to real estate and property in UAE and other permitted areas.
Assets and liabilities can be pooled and transferred to an SPV. Then, securities can be issued by the SPV, isolating risk from the parent company.
SPVs can hold and trade assets like commodities and stocks in a structured and tax-efficient manner.
The legal and financial risks are contained to specific projects or assets, while the parent company is completely protected from potential liabilities.
Important and core IP can be moved to a separate structure where it remains safe from risks. SPVs can also hold IP agreements.
Without any red tape, assets and related agreements can be transferred as part of legacy planning and inheritance structuring.
Benefits of ADGM SPV company set up include:
Here are the steps of setting up an SPV in ADGM:
Select a unique and appropriate name for your ADGM SPV setup. The name you choose must not be already taken by another company and must meet the naming rules set out by ADGM’s regulatory authority.
Prepare the necessary documents and submit your application for incorporation and SPV license to the Registration Authority. Include the completed application form, company Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA & AOA), passport and address proof of the shareholder(s) and director(s), and any other required documents. Don’t forget to pay the applicable fees during this step.
Once the application is submitted, the Registration Authority will review it. In case the authority needs more information from you, you will receive a notification via email.
Upon approval, your Certificate of Incorporation will be issued, and your SPV will be recognized as a legal entity in ADGM.
The cost of a commercial license for an SPV company in ADGM is around USD 1,000*. You will need to pay AED 700* for the company incorporation application and AED 200* to reserve a trade name
Please note that the total ADGM SPV cost is subject to change based on regulatory updates and business requirements. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing of SPV setup Abu Dhabi, please contact Dubiz experts.
The following documents are typically required to start an SPV company in ADGM:
It is advisable to consult with our experts to ensure all required forms and documents are submitted correctly.
ADGM’s SPV regime is robust and well-regarded. It stands out as a leading jurisdiction for SPV setup, offering 100% foreign ownership, no physical office requirement, tax efficiency, access to the UAE’s extensive network of double tax treaties, and many other advantages.
SPVs in ADGM can be established for various strategic reasons including investment structuring, undertaking high-risk projects, asset protection, or raising capital. To get started, it’s essential to understand the legal framework and compliance obligations within ADGM. As the process can be complex, partnering with experienced professionals ensures a smooth, compliant, and efficient setup.
Dubiz Business Setup, with its unmatched 8+ years of experience, can assist you with the complete company formation process, ensuring your SPV is established smoothly and in full compliance with ADGM guidelines. Get all the UAE company setup needs figured out under a single roof including your business license, business bank account setup, visa and tax advisory.
Note: Information provided is to the best of our knowledge but is subject to change. Please contact ADGM or our experts for the latest updates.
SPV stands for Special Purpose Vehicle and refers to passive holding company established by organisations and individuals to achieve a specific goal.
You can typically establish an SPV company in ADGM within 2 to 4 weeks, provided you submit all required documents and obtain the necessary approvals.
The primary ongoing compliance requirements for ADGM SPV set up include:
These requirements are mandatory and must be strictly followed to remain compliant with ADGM regulations.
No, SPVs in ADGM are not allowed to act operationally. They are designed as passive holding companies and cannot conduct active business functions.
