Abu Dhabi launches new Registration and Licensing Authority

Abu Dhabi launched Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority (ADRA) on Monday, aiming to further enhance and regulate the business sector across the emirate.

The launch follows the Abu Dhabi Executive Council's resolution to establish ADRA to oversee the registration of businesses in the emirate and its non-financial economic free zones and coordinate with relevant entities to streamline licensing procedures.

ADRA will ensure full compliance with laws and regulations applicable in the emirate and its non-financial economic free zones, including those related to anti-money laundering (AML), combating the financing of suspicious activities, and addressing illicit organisations.

ADRA will also develop a unified database consolidating data on economic establishments across the emirate’s mainland and its non-financial free zones. This initiative aims to facilitate the management of the commercial registry, streamline licensing procedures for economic establishments, manage regulatory affairs, and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

The new authority will facilitate business establishment, operations and growth to encourage investment and foster a robust ecosystem for the business sector. It will also introduce new types of licences, creating opportunities to attract talents, investors, and entrepreneurs, enabling them to benefit from the emirate’s diverse and robust economy.

The Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, said: “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.