ADGM Tech Startup Licence cost.
The ADGM Tech Startup Licence is a discounted operational commercial licence for early-stage technology companies — USD 1,500/year versus USD 5,500 standard, for up to five years. It is the licence VC-backed founders use when they want ADGM-law-governed share documents. Here is the 2026 cost.
What you actually pay, line by line.
| Item | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| ADGM Tech Startup Licence | USD 1,500 | Per year, up to 5 years |
| Corporate Service Provider / registered office | USD 2,500 – 5,000 | Per year |
| Visas (up to 4) — government fees | USD 1,000 – 1,500 each | Establishment card + per-visa, separate |
| ArxSetup professional fee | USD 4,500 | Incorporation, bespoke Articles, KYC |
| Year-1 all-in (no visas) | from USD 8,500 | |
| Year-1 all-in (with 2 visas) | from USD 11,500 |
Government fees are pass-through and may be revised by the regulator without notice. AED/USD conversions are indicative. ArxSetup professional fees are fixed and quoted in writing before engagement. Figures current May 2026.
Reviewed by qualified counsel within ArxSetup and our affiliated practices, Neo Legal (UAE) and Cornwalls (Australia). Figures verified against primary regulator sources. Last reviewed: May 2026. Est. 2021 · DDA Licence 107229 · direct registry filing partner. How we review →
Common questions.
The questions clients ask most before committing. Current to 2026, reviewed by counsel.
How much is the ADGM Tech Startup Licence in 2026?
From USD 8,500 all-in for year one without visas (licence USD 1,500/year, CSP USD 2,500–5,000, ArxSetup fee), or from USD 11,500 with two visas. The licence is available for up to five years before converting to a standard commercial licence.
Who qualifies for the ADGM Tech Startup Licence?
Early-stage technology companies — SaaS, fintech, AI, Web3, deep tech — that meet ADGM's innovation criteria. ArxSetup confirms eligibility before filing.
Why do VCs prefer ADGM for startups?
ADGM applies English common law with its own courts, so the SPA, shareholders' agreement and option pool can be ADGM-law-governed — which institutional VCs treat as functionally equivalent to English law.
Can I get visas on a Tech Startup Licence?
Yes — up to four visas. Government fees (establishment card plus per-visa) are quoted separately at roughly USD 1,000–1,500 per visa.
What happens after 5 years on the Tech Startup Licence?
It converts to a standard ADGM commercial licence (USD 5,500 registration + USD 5,000/year). By then most companies have raised and can absorb the standard fee.
This page is general information, reviewed May 2026 — not legal, tax or immigration advice, and it does not create a client relationship. Advice specific to your circumstances is provided only under a signed engagement letter. Government fees are set by the relevant authority and may change without notice. Where local registered agents are required, we coordinate with licensed partners and disclose their role in writing.