New economic licenses in Abu Dhabi increased by 21% during the first quarter of 2026
ABU DHABI, 22nd June, 2020 (WAM) – Data from the Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA), the arm of the Department of Economic Development – Abu Dhabi to develop and regulate the business sector, revealed an increase in the number of new economic licenses in the emirate during the first quarter of this year (January to March 2026) by 21% compared to the same period in 2025.
The strong growth rates in the number of new economic licenses and license categories in various regions of the emirate and economic sectors confirm the attractiveness of the business sector for qualitative investments and its ability to continue growth despite the challenges that the region has witnessed during the past period.
Active licenses in the emirate increased during the first quarter of 2026 by 12% compared to the same period last year, while new economic licenses continued to achieve growth in various regions of the emirate, as new economic licenses increased in the Al Ain region by 58%, in the Al Dhafra region by 28%, and in Abu Dhabi by 18%. New commercial licenses witnessed a growth of 20%, craftsmanship licenses by 193%, and licenses in the field of agriculture, fisheries and livestock by 5%.
Industrial licenses that moved to the production stage during the first quarter of 2026 witnessed an increase of 3%, bringing 34 new industrial facilities into full operation during the first three months of this year, which contributes to achieving the goals of the Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy to strengthen supply chains and increase local production capacity.
His Excellency Hamad Sayyah Al Mazrouei, Undersecretary of the Department of Economic Development – Abu Dhabi, said: “In light of global and regional challenges and changes, Abu Dhabi confirms its ability to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and prosperity. The strong indicators confirm the flexibility and attractiveness of Abu Dhabi’s economy and the effectiveness of the emirate’s policies and legislative frameworks in laying the solid foundations for the advanced business sector, which is characterized by its vitality, positive response to changes, and the effectiveness and efficiency of supply chains to meet the requirements of citizens and residents.”
Al Mazrouei added: “We are keen to continuously communicate with companies, investors and other stakeholders with the aim of developing policies and supporting the business sector to continue its operations, enhance the competitiveness of Abu Dhabi’s economy, and consolidate its position as an attractive destination for talent, business and investments. We affirm our commitment to continuing our efforts to ensure the provision of an integrated system that enables everyone to achieve their maximum potential in order to achieve positive value in the long term.”
During the first quarter of this year (2026), the pace of growth continued in the licenses of “Tajer Abu Dhabi”, which rose by 17%, “Free Professions”, which jumped by 261%, and “Mubda’a”, which grew by 15%, which reflects the appropriate environment for starting and doing business in the emirate. Also, promotions continued to grow by 2% and advertisements by 26%, which reflects the growing business activity.
His Excellency Mohammed Munif Al Mansouri, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA), said: “As the demand for establishing businesses in Abu Dhabi continues, we continue our endeavors to ensure that we keep pace with developments and changes in the business sector in order to maintain the leadership position of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi as a leading center for quality investments and companies aspiring to growth and expansion, which contributes to achieving the strategic priorities of the emirate.”
Al Mansouri added: “In the past period, our efforts have continued to enhance market stability, protect consumer rights, and ensure the smooth flow of supply chains. The cooperation of economic establishments has contributed to ensuring the availability of goods and services, preserving consumer rights, and business continuity. We renew our commitment to redoubling efforts to ensure the provision of the best possible environment and enable entrepreneurs to benefit from the capabilities and capabilities of the emirate and the diversity and vitality of its economy.”
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