The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Registration Authority has published Consultation Paper No. 7 of 2026, proposing a new regulatory framework for business centres operating within ADGM. The proposal, published on 15 October 2026, would make providing business centre services a controlled activity within ADGM, affecting existing and prospective business centre operators and the companies that use their registered office and flexi-desk services. No effective date has been announced, as this is a consultation only, with comments due by 6 November 2026.
What has changed
- Proposes designating business centre services as a controlled activity requiring an ADGM licence
- Would require public liability insurance, transparent pricing disclosure and limits on client agreement terms
- Introduces notification, wind-down and contingency planning requirements plus minimum regulatory capital
- Proposes a prohibition on accepting or distributing cash above a prescribed threshold
- Public consultation open until 6 November 2026, with no effective date yet set
Who is affected
Existing and prospective ADGM business centre operators, company service providers and their tenants should expect new licensing, insurance, capital and disclosure obligations if the proposal is adopted. Business setup clients using ADGM business centres for registered office or flexi-desk arrangements may see changes to contract terms and continuity protections.
What businesses should do
Affected operators and tenants should review Consultation Paper No. 7 of 2026 on the ADGM website and may submit feedback to the Registration Authority before the comment deadline of 6 November 2026. No compliance action is required yet, as the framework is not yet in force.
How Aizaa can help
Aizaa Management Consultancy helps clients using or operating ADGM business centres understand how this proposed licensing framework could affect their registered office and flexi-desk arrangements. Our team can review the consultation paper against a client’s specific setup and help prepare a response ahead of the 6 November deadline. Call +971 55 786 7621 or visit aizaa.ae.
This update is for general awareness only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Contact Aizaa Management Consultancy to discuss how these changes apply to your specific situation.