The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has launched ADRA — the Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority — to develop and formalize the business sector across the emirate. The authority was established following a resolution by the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and will regulate business registration and licensing compliance in Abu Dhabi and its non-financial economic free zones.
What ADRA Does
One of ADRA's core responsibilities is ensuring regulatory compliance, including enforcement of anti-money laundering (AML) rules and measures against suspicious financial activity. The authority will also build a unified catalogue of economic entities, which will simplify the licensing process and allow for stronger oversight of commercial registers.
Streamlining Business Registration in Abu Dhabi
ADRA aims to optimise business procedures, attract investment, and create an enabling environment for companies through advanced digital solutions. New licence categories will give businesses, investors, and entrepreneurs greater flexibility to take advantage of Abu Dhabi's diversified economic landscape.
The authority will also ensure compliance with local, federal, and international standards — strengthening data transparency and supporting sound business decision-making across the emirate.
Al Zaabi: ADRA Marks a New Milestone
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, said the establishment of ADRA marks a new milestone in Abu Dhabi's economic journey. "ADRA supports our initiatives to accelerate the emirate's economic growth and diversification," he said, adding that it will "add to the unique attributes of Abu Dhabi's soaring Falcon Economy, cementing its position as the preferred destination for talent, investors, and businesses."
Supporting the Falcon Economy
ADRA's mandate directly supports Abu Dhabi's long-term economic strategy. The authority is expected to play a key role in attracting investment to priority sectors while aligning with the emirate's vision to become a leading global hub for talent and capital. Its actions reinforce Abu Dhabi's ambitions to strengthen its standing as one of the world's top international business centres.
