Why investors choose Abu Dhabi
Economic powerhouse
Abu Dhabi, known as the ‘Capital of Capital’ has increased its GDP twelvefold in the last 40 years. and the non-oil economy accounted for over half of GDP in 2023.
Now the World’s Richest City, Abu Dhabi is home to the world's largest sovereign wealth funds - including the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and Mubadala, which collectively hold over $1.7 trillion in assets under management.
Fueled by its knowledge-driven economy, AA credit rating, and favourable tax environment, Abu Dhabi’s economic growth is driving opportunities across diverse sectors.
Innovation accelerator
At the core of Abu Dhabi’s development lies a commitment to innovation. From startup accelerators and incubators to robust R&D support and one of the most advanced regulatory environments in the world, Abu Dhabi nurtures innovative ideas, empowering them to scale globally.
The emirate’s 12 startup accelerators and incubators that support new businesses across the different growth stages by providing access to funding, mentorship, co-working spaces, and other support services. Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, Hub71, enables founders to build homegrown tech companies, with its 318 startups collectively raising funds over USD 1.6 billion.
Unmatched connectivity
Abu Dhabi's position at the crossroads of the Middle East, Europe, Africa and South Asia, means that you can manage global markets, from the Americas to East Asia, all in one day.
With 33% of the world reachable within a 4-hour flight, and 80% of the world reachable within an 8-hour flight, Abu Dhabi is your gateway to key global markets, with access to USD 10 trillion economies and two billion people. Leverage the connectivity of five airports, as well as a world-class maritime system through Zayed, Khalifa, and Mussafah ports, which offer access to more than 64 international destinations.
The emirate’s robust digital infrastructure also provides a strong foundation for companies to innovate and thrive in a digital era. With one of the highest Internet penetration rates in the world and the world’s fastest 5G fixed broadband speeds, Abu Dhabi allows you to reach the remainder of the world just as seamlessly.
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World-class infrastructure
Abu Dhabi is the smartest city in the Middle East, reflecting its commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to enhance urban living. The emirate’s investment in smart infrastructure and efficient transit systems has significantly improved accessibility and connectivity for residents and visitors alike.
By consistently prioritising user experience, Abu Dhabi continues to set benchmarks for smart city initiatives, creating a seamless and sustainable urban environment.
Multicultural talent
Ranked #1 regionally in INSEAD’s Global Cities Talent Competitiveness Index (2023), Abu Dhabi has become a preferred home for people from over 200 nationalities, with a skilled workforce that has reached an all-time high at a growth of 109% over a decade. Abu Dhabi’s credentials as an international, multilingual business base that celebrates all nationalities and cultures.
With top-ranked universities such as the UAE University, Khalifa University for Science and Technology, and Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Artificial Intelligence, Abu Dhabi is constantly growing its global pool of talented professionals to enable real, measurable progress.
Multicultural talent
Ranked #1 regionally in INSEAD’s Global Cities Talent Competitiveness Index (2023), Abu Dhabi has become a preferred home for people from over 200 nationalities, with a skilled workforce that has reached an all-time high at a growth of 109% over a decade. Abu Dhabi’s credentials as an international, multilingual business base that celebrates all nationalities and cultures.
With top-ranked universities such as the UAE University, Khalifa University for Science and Technology, and Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Artificial Intelligence, Abu Dhabi is constantly growing its global pool of talented professionals to enable real, measurable progress.
Unrivalled liveability
A top destination for global professionals, Abu Dhabi is the Safest City in the World, and the region’s Most Liveable city.
Home to world class healthcare providers, including the top hospital in the region, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, as well as leading educational institutions like New York University Abu Dhabi and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, and renowned cultural hubs like Louvre Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi ensures that professionals, entrepreneurs and innovators in the emirate have access to the best offerings for themselves and their families.
Business ease
Abu Dhabi helps private sector companies succeed by providing long-term residency visas, 100% foreign ownership, and low tax rates. The Abu Dhabi Government regularly enacts policy and regulatory reforms that meet the pace of innovation and enable continued growth.
At present, a business license costs as little as USD 270, and the emirate offers free registration and licensing for new business and freelancers for the first two years of operation.
For business owners and investors, the UAE capital provides quick, convenient access to government services and leading corporations, with a streamlined set-up and licensing process accessible through the Tamm single digital window. Dedicated experts help ease procedures further for innovators joining the future-focused industries within ADIO’s economic clusters.
Industrial Hub
In 2022, the Government of Abu Dhabi reinforced its dedication to industrial growth, allocating AED 10 billion to implement the Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy, with the goal of doubling the manufacturing sector to AED 172 billion by 2031.
Driven by a commitment to economic diversification, Abu Dhabi has fostered the development of specialised industrial zones, an advanced logistics network, and robust incentives for industrial activities, positioning the emirate as a premier destination for manufacturing enterprises.