Abu Dhabi Launches Registration And Licensing Authority To Boost Business Sector

Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) launched the Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority (ADRA) to regulate and enhance the business sector in the emirate, including its non-financial economic free zones.

ADRA will also coordinate with relevant entities to simplify licensing processes and ensure full compliance with laws, including those related to anti-money laundering (AML), preventing the financing of suspicious activities and addressing illegal organizations.

The launch follows a decision by the Abu Dhabi Executive Council to establish ADRA, which will supervise business registrations in both the emirate and its free zones.

"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," ADDED Chairman Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi was quoted as saying by WAM.

He further said that the ADRA reflects Abu Dhabi's goal to strengthen its position as a top destination for talent, investment, and business. It aims to help businesses grow locally and internationally while opening up new markets.

ADRA also plays a pivotal role in attracting investments across important sectors, supporting Abu Dhabi's economic vision. It ensures that all businesses in the emirate's mainland and non-financial economic free zones follow international standards and regulations.

This shows Abu Dhabi's commitment to increasing transparency and providing accurate data for policymakers, researchers, and businesses to make informed, data-driven decisions, as per Al Zaabi.

ADRA ensures that all businesses in Abu Dhabi's mainland and non-financial economic free zones follow local, federal, and international standards and regulations.

The authority will also contribute to the growth of Abu Dhabi's Falcon Economy, strengthening its reputation as the top choice for talent, investors, and businesses. ADRA will create a unified database to collect data on businesses in Abu Dhabi's mainland and non-financial free zones.

This will help manage the commercial registry, simplify licensing processes, handle regulatory matters, and ensure businesses follow the necessary laws and regulations.

By using advanced digital solutions, ADRA will make it easier to set up, operate and grow businesses, encouraging investment and building a strong business environment. It will also introduce new types of licenses, attracting talent, investors, and entrepreneurs to take advantage of Abu Dhabi's diverse and strong economy.