Abu Dhabi Sees 29% Rise in New Business Licences

Abu Dhabi has recorded strong growth in new and active economic licences in 2025, highlighting the emirate’s position as a leading investment and business destination.

The Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA), the business sector development arm of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), announced that the number of new economic licences issued in 2025 increased by 29 per cent compared to 2024.

The data shows significant growth across all regions of the emirate, different economic sectors, and licence categories. Officials said this reflects Abu Dhabi’s strong, transparent, and investor-friendly business environment.

Strong Growth in Renewals and Active Licences

In 2025, renewed licences rose by 20 per cent, while active licences increased by 13.5 per cent compared to the previous year.

ADRA stated that this growth was supported by several initiatives, including updating the register of expired licences and introducing new economic activities to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and investors.

Sector-Wise Growth in 2025

New economic licences showed strong performance across various sectors:

• Industrial licences increased by 20 per cent

• Tourism licences rose by 10 per cent

• Occupational licences surged by 122 per cent

• Professional licences grew by 28 per cent

• Commercial licences increased by 28 per cent

• Agriculture, fishery, and livestock licences rose by 12 per cent

Regional Growth Across the Emirate

All major regions of Abu Dhabi recorded growth in economic licences:

• Abu Dhabi City saw a 31 per cent increase

• Al Ain Region recorded 29 per cent growth

• Al Dhafra Region registered a 16 per cent rise

Leadership Statement

His Excellency Mohamed Munif Al Mansoori, Director General of ADRA, said the strong results show the strength and attractiveness of Abu Dhabi’s business sector.

He said the growth in 2025 came on top of strong performance in previous years, reflecting rising interest from local and international investors. He reaffirmed ADRA’s commitment to improving services, supporting investors, and attracting more investments to support Abu Dhabi’s economic priorities.

Growth in Compliance and Transparency

Compliance with “Real Beneficiary” requirements also improved in 2025. A total of 53,701 declarations were registered, up 14 per cent from 47,261 declarations in 2024.

Officials said this reflects efforts to ensure full compliance with local and federal laws, while strengthening transparency and international standards of governance.

Entrepreneur-Focused Licences Show Big Jump

Entrepreneur-focused initiatives continued to grow in 2025:

• Mobdea licences increased from 2,503 in 2024 to 3,306 in 2025, marking a 32 per cent rise.

• Freelancer licences jumped from 2,065 to 3,502, recording a 70 per cent increase.

• Tajer Abu Dhabi licences grew from 7,187 to 8,901, up 24 per cent.

The Tajer Abu Dhabi licence allows entrepreneurs to start businesses in more than 1,200 economic activities without requiring a physical office for the first three years.

ADRA said it will continue to adopt a data-driven approach, advanced digital solutions, and investor-focused services to support business growth and economic diversification in Abu Dhabi.