Are you considering starting a business in Abu Dhabi but unsure of which license to apply for? Look no further than the ‘License Finder’ feature on the TAMM app, the official platform of the Abu Dhabi government. This online tool simplifies the process and helps you identify the perfect license for your entrepreneurial aspirations.
Instead of visiting a consultancy or government service center, you can save time and effort by using this convenient tool on your phone. In just a few minutes, and at no cost, you can find the most suitable license for your new business venture.
How to use Abu Dhabi’s ‘Licence Finder’?
The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) offers an online tool through the TAMM app, accessible on Android, Apple, and Huawei phones. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to utilize this tool:
- Begin by opening the TAMM app and logging in using your UAE Pass. Locate the ‘Services’ option at the bottom of your mobile screen and tap on it.
- Scroll down until you reach the ‘Explore More’ section and swipe to find ‘Licence Finder’. Tap on ‘Know more’ to proceed.
- You will then be prompted to answer a series of questions about your new business venture.
– What type of business are you interested in establishing? Options include agriculture, oil and gas, professional services, contracting, and more. Once you choose an industry, you will need to select a sub-category (e.g. cargo services within the services industry).
– Are you starting a new business or expanding an existing one? You will have the choice between ‘I want to open a new business’ or ‘I want to open a branch of an existing business’. Simply tap ‘Next’ to proceed.
– How many owners will the business have? The number of owners will determine the legal structure of the business. You will need to specify if the owner/owners are UAE nationals, expatriates, GCC citizens, or foreigners.
– Choose the legal form of the business based on your previous answers. Options such as establishment, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Professional Company, Professional Establishment, and Sole Proprietorship LLC will be presented based on your selections.
– What commercial activities will your business be involved in? Select the specific commercial activities from the drop-down list (e.g. cargo packaging services).
– Do you plan to have a physical location for your business? Choose between ‘Yes, I am planning to have one’ or ‘No, I don’t need it for now’. Tap ‘Next’ to continue.
- Once you have completed the questionnaire, you will receive a recommendation for the business license that best suits your company.
Exploring your license options
The ‘Licence Finder’ provides a range of licenses tailored to meet your specific requirements:
– Instant License: Register your business and acquire a Trade License in one simple step.
– Technology License: Register a technology business and obtain a license for technology-related activities.
– Mobdea License: Register your business and obtain a license to operate from home (exclusive to Emirati women).
– Tajer Abu Dhabi License: Obtain a trade license to conduct specific business activities.
– Branch License: Establish a branch location in Abu Dhabi for an existing company.
– Freelance License: Register your business and acquire a Trade License in one straightforward step.
– Virtual License: Register your business and obtain a Trade License in one seamless process.
– Dual License: Expand a free zone business to the UAE mainland while operating from a free zone office.
– Foreign Branch License: Open a branch in Abu Dhabi for a foreign existing company.
These licenses cater to a variety of business needs, providing flexibility and convenience for entrepreneurs looking to establish or expand their operations in Abu Dhabi.
Getting the right legal form
Utilize the ‘License Finder’ tool to compare various legal forms available for your business to make a well-informed decision. In Abu Dhabi, there are six different legal forms for businesses, with the applicable options varying based on the type of license and the nationalities of the stakeholders involved. By providing the necessary details, you will receive guidance on the suitable legal form under which your company can be established.
– Sole Proprietorship LLC: This structure allows a single member to own 100% of the business, and it is registered as a separate entity from its owner.
– Limited Liability Company (LLC): An LLC is a business entity established by a contract between 2 and up to 50 individuals.
– Professional Establishment: This type of business is owned by one person only and is licensed to practice specific economic activities.
– Establishment: Similar to a professional establishment, this type of business is owned by one person only and is licensed to practice select economic activities.
Also Read: There are three business licenses in the UAE that do not require physical office space
