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United Arab Emirates vs ADGM (Abu Dhabi): which jurisdiction wins?
United Arab Emirates vs ADGM (Abu Dhabi) — both credible, very different trade-offs. Below: side-by-side on the variables that actually move the decision.
| United Arab Emirates | ADGM (Abu Dhabi) | |
|---|---|---|
| Tax headline | 9% corporate tax above AED 375k (free zones 0% on qualifying) | 0% on qualifying income (9% otherwise) |
| Formation days | 10 | 14 |
| First-year cost | $6,500 | $11,500 |
| Treaties | 140+ | 140+ |
| Substance | Free zone QFZP requires adequate substance | Office and director presence required |
| Banking | Emirates NBD, ADCB, Mashreq, plus Wio and crypto-friendly EMIs | ADGM banks plus FAB, ADCB onshore introductions |
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