In the rapidly evolving world of global finance and business innovation, Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) stands out as the premier destination for entrepreneurs, startups, and established companies seeking a strategic foothold in the Middle East. As an international financial center, ADGM offers regulatory excellence, tax advantages, and world-class infrastructure, making it an ideal hub for financial services, fintech, and more. Within this dynamic environment, Sky Hub Business Center provides top-tier co-working spaces on Al Reem Island, delivering affordable and flexible workspaces tailored to ADGM’s regulatory framework.
Whether you’re a freelancer launching a new venture or a FSRA-regulated company expanding your operations, understanding ADGM and co-working options like Sky Hub can open doors to significant growth opportunities in Abu Dhabi.
This article explores ADGM’s key features, business advantages, and how co-working spaces such as Sky Hub enhance the overall experience. If you’re searching for terms like “ADGM overview,” “co-working spaces in ADGM,” or “Sky Hub Business Center review,” you’ve come to the right place.
What is ADGM: An Overview of Abu Dhabi Global Market
Abu Dhabi Global Market, commonly known as ADGM, is an international financial center (IFC) and free economic zone located in the UAE’s capital city. Primarily situated on Al Maryah Island and recently expanded to Al Reem Island, ADGM serves as a strategic gateway to the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and global markets. Unlike other UAE free zones, ADGM operates under a common law system based on English law, distinguishing it from the UAE’s civil law framework.
History and Establishment of ADGM
Founded in 2013 through Federal Decree No. 15 and Abu Dhabi Law No. 4, ADGM commenced operations in October 2015. Its establishment supports Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision 2030, aiming to diversify the economy beyond oil by fostering a vibrant financial services sector. In 2023, ADGM extended its jurisdiction to Al Reem Island via UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 41, creating one of the region’s largest financial districts spanning over 14 million square meters. All businesses on Al Reem Island are required to transition to ADGM commercial licenses by December 31, 2024, with real estate regulation shifting to ADGM’s Registration Authority starting January 2025. ADGM is governed by three independent bodies: the Registration Authority (RA), Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), and ADGM Courts, ensuring efficient company registration, robust regulation, and fair dispute resolution. The RA handles company registrations and trade licenses, the FSRA oversees financial activities, and the Courts provide a common law judicial system.
Key Features of ADGM
ADGM’s appeal lies in its innovative offerings designed to meet the needs of modern businesses:
Common Law Framework: Based on English common law, providing predictability and familiarity for global firms, unlike the UAE’s civil law system.
Tax Advantages: Businesses benefit from 0% corporate tax on qualifying income until 2030 under the UAE’s new tax regime, no withholding taxes, and access to double tax treaties.
Innovation Focus: ADGM leads in fintech, sustainable finance, and digital assets, having introduced the world’s first comprehensive crypto asset regulatory framework.
Strategic Location: Located in Abu Dhabi, one of the region’s most livable cities, with excellent connectivity to international markets, sovereign wealth funds, and lifestyle amenities.
Diverse Industry Support: Hosting over 1,000 entities as of 2025, ADGM supports sectors from private banking and asset management to wealth management and financial innovation.
These attributes make ADGM a hub for global corporations, investment banks, fintech startups, and asset managers.
Advantages of Operating in ADGM for Businesses
Selecting ADGM as your business base offers more than just a prime location—it provides an ecosystem built for success. Key advantages include:
Regulatory Simplicity and Streamlined Setup: Simplified procedures for company formation, trade license issuance, and FSRA approvals reduce administrative burdens. Virtual offices can fulfill lease requirements without physical presence.
Access to Capital and Talent: Proximity to sovereign wealth funds and initiatives like ADGM Academy’s talent development programs offer funding and skilled workforce opportunities.
Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation: ADGM prioritizes green finance and AI-driven solutions aligned with global trends toward sustainable growth.
High Quality of Life: Abu Dhabi’s world-class healthcare, education, and leisure options enhance employee satisfaction and retention.
Global Connectivity: Serving as a bridge between East and West, ADGM facilitates expansion into emerging markets.
For those seeking flexible workspaces, ADGM’s expansion to Al Reem Island has increased co-working options, enabling remote teams and startups to thrive without large commitments.
Co-Working in ADGM: A Flexible Work Solution
Co-working in ADGM represents the future of work—affordable, community-oriented, and compliant. With hybrid work models becoming the norm post-pandemic, these spaces offer 24/7 access, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and amenities such as free refreshments—essential for productivity in a financial hub.
Popular options include serviced offices on Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands, featuring ergonomic designs and networking events. They support FSRA-regulated entities by providing annual lease agreements required for trade licenses, ensuring smooth operations. Benefits include cost savings (up to 50% compared to traditional office leases), scalability, and built-in support for business growth.
Introducing Sky Hub Business Center: Your Co-Working Partner in ADGM
Located in the iconic Sky Tower on Al Reem Island, Sky Hub Business Center is a premier co-working provider tailored for companies operating under ADGM’s jurisdiction. Sky Hub offers affordable serviced offices and flexible desk options for startups, freelancers, and regulated firms. Its prime location boasts stunning waterfront views and proximity to malls, cafes, and transport links, blending work and lifestyle in Abu Dhabi’s vibrant environment.
Services and Membership Options at Sky Hub
Sky Hub provides:
Shared Offices and Flexible Memberships: Non-dedicated desks with 24/7 access, video conferencing, printing, and front desk services—ideal for remote professionals.
Dedicated Desks: Personalized workstations with company branding, annual leases for ADGM compliance, breakfast, and free parking for teams of five or more.
Executive and Private Offices: Private suites with storage, IT integrations, and premium amenities for financial firms requiring confidentiality.
Virtual Offices: Prestigious ADGM addresses for remote operations, fulfilling trade license requirements without physical space.
Meeting Rooms: Equipped for collaboration with free snacks and advanced technology.
Additional Services: Partnerships offering legal support (e.g., with Hassan & Partners for business setup at special rates) and innovative AI calling solutions for client outreach—the first of their kind in ADGM.
User reviews commend Sky Hub for affordability, reliable support, and a strong community presence in ADGM’s competitive market.
Why Choose Sky Hub?
Sky Hub is more than just a workspace—it’s a growth accelerator. Its ADGM-compliant leases simplify licensing, and networking events foster valuable connections. If you’re searching for “co-working spaces in Abu Dhabi,” Sky Hub provides cost-effective access to a global financial hub with sustainable design and ergonomic setups that promote well-being.
Compared to alternatives like Centrum or Cloud Spaces, Sky Hub stands out for its focus on FSRA-regulated entities and innovative features like AI tools that help clients scale efficiently.
Getting Started with ADGM and Sky Hub
Ready to begin? Start with ADGM’s registration portal to establish your entity. To explore Sky Hub, visit their website to book a tour or inquire about membership options. Pro tip: leverage their legal partnerships for a smooth incorporation process.
In summary, ADGM represents the future of finance in the UAE, and Sky Hub Business Center enhances this through flexible and supportive co-working solutions. Whether you’re seeking “what is ADGM” or the best co-working options in Abu Dhabi, this combination is unmatched. Contact Sky Hub at connect@skyhubuae.com or +971 50 273 1289 to elevate your business today. Subscribe to our blog for more insights into UAE business!