Expert Guidance for FSRA Authorization in the ADGM
About Abu Dhabi
What is the ADGM?
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is a global hub for innovation and investment, home to some of the world's largest sovereign wealth funds and leading financial institutions. Known for its business-friendly environment, Abu Dhabi offers:
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Tax-friendly policies for corporations and individuals.
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Strategic connectivity to both Eastern and Western markets.
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Access to significant private and institutional wealth.
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An exceptional lifestyle with world-class healthcare, education, and cultural experiences.
Located on Al Maryah Island, the ADGM reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to fostering financial innovation, making it the ideal base for businesses seeking stability, growth, and global connectivity.
The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is a Financial Free Zone operating under its own civil and commercial laws, with regulation by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). ADGM offers:
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100% foreign ownership.
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A legal framework aligned with international best practices.
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Access to advanced financial infrastructure and supportive business environments.
Strategically positioned, ADGM serves as a gateway for businesses expanding across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region.
Does Your Business Need FSRA Authorization?
Any entity offering financial services from a permanent establishment in the ADGM must secure authorization from the FSRA. This includes:
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Banks, brokers, and dealers.
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Asset managers, corporate financiers, and wealth managers.
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Insurers and insurance intermediaries.
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Virtual asset service providers and crowdfunding platforms.
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Money service providers.
The FSRA’s licensing requirements vary based on the type of business and activities. The appropriate license type determines your capital requirements and regulatory obligations.
How Solvus Supports Your Authorization Journey
Variation of Permission (VoP)
End-to-End Project Management
Solvus provides a comprehensive approach to FSRA authorization, managing every aspect of the process:
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Regulatory Strategy: Identifying the optimal FSRA license for your operations.
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Documentation Preparation: Crafting a Regulatory Business Plan (RBP), financial projections, and compliance frameworks.
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Application Management: Ensuring all forms and submissions meet FSRA standards.
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Regulator Engagement: Liaising with FSRA and ADGM authorities on your behalf.
Post-Authorization Support
Solvus provides a comprehensive approach to FSRA authorization, managing every aspect of the process:
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Regulatory Strategy: Identifying the optimal FSRA license for your operations.
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Documentation Preparation: Crafting a Regulatory Business Plan (RBP), financial projections, and compliance frameworks.
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Application Management: Ensuring all forms and submissions meet FSRA standards.
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Regulator Engagement: Liaising with FSRA and ADGM authorities on your behalf.
As your business evolves, you may need to update your FSRA license to reflect new activities or product offerings. Solvus can assist with:
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License Upgrades: Identifying and applying for the appropriate variation of permission.
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Regulatory Updates: Revising governance and compliance frameworks to align with expanded operations.
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Documentation Review: Updating policies, risk frameworks, and agreements to meet new requirements.
Advantages of Setting Up in the ADGM
Setting up in the ADGM offers significant benefits
ADGM and Virtual Assets
ADGM is a pioneer in virtual asset regulation, offering a comprehensive framework that balances innovation with consumer protection. Businesses in the virtual asset space, such as broker-dealers, custodians, and trading platforms, must secure approval under the FSRA’s virtual assets regime.
How Solvus Helps in Virtual Asset Licensing
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Guidance on FSRA’s virtual asset framework and compliance requirements.
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Assistance with regulatory submissions for virtual asset and financial service licenses.
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Development of bespoke policies and procedures tailored to your business.
Why Choose Solvus
At Solvus, we combine deep regulatory knowledge with a client-centric approach, ensuring compliance becomes a strategic enabler for your business. Based in Abu Dhabi, we understand the unique advantages and opportunities the city offers to businesses. Whether entering the ADGM for the first time or scaling existing operations, Solvus is your partner in navigating the complexities of FSRA authorization.
Contact us today to unlock the full potential of your business in Abu Dhabi and the ADGM. With Solvus, compliance is more than a requirement—it’s an opportunity for innovation and growth.