ADGM Financial Services License

We have adeptly navigated numerous FSRA application processes across diverse industries, maintaining regular engagement with the FSRA to ensure our understanding of their requisites remains current and comprehensive.

Contact us to learn more​​

 ServicesAuthorisation & Applications | FSRA Authorisation

ABOUT ADGM

Introduction To ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market)


ADGM serves as an esteemed international financial hub situated in the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Central to its core strategy is the ethos of fostering enduring partnerships and fostering collaboration on a local, regional, and global scale.

What makes ADGM stand out as a premier choice?


  • Ability to possess 100% ownership of registered entities
  • Facilitating entities to engage in commercial transactions without tax obligations and operate within an international regulatory framework, supported by an autonomous judicial system and legislative infrastructure
  • ADGM's regulatory framework offers industry-leading cost efficiency and expedited time-to-market, coupled with globally competitive minimum capital requirements.
  • ADGM provides a diverse array of financial services activities and market opportunities.
ADGM Categorization of Authorized Firms


ADGM serves as an esteemed international financial hub situated in the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Central to its core strategy is the ethos of fostering enduring partnerships and fostering collaboration on a local, regional, and global scale.


CATEGORY 1

  • Accepting Deposits
  • Managing a PSIAu (Profit Sharing Investment Account unrestricted

CATEGORY 2

  • Dealing in Investments as Principal (not as Matched Principal)
  • Providing Credit

CATEGORY 3A

  • Dealing in Investment as Principal (only as Matched Principal)
  • Dealing as Agent

CATEGORY 3B

  • Providing Custody (only if for a Fund)
  • Acting as the Trustee of the Fund

CATEGORY 3C

  • Managing Collective Investment Fund
  • Managing Assets 
  • Providing Trust Services as a trustee of an express trust 
  • Managing a PSIAr (Profit Sharing Investment Account restricted) 
  • Providing Custody (other than for a Fund)

CATEGORY 4

  • Arranging Credit 
  • Advising on Credit 
  • Arranging Deals in Investments 
  • Advising on Financial Products 
  • Arranging Custody 
  • Insurance Intermediation 
  • Insurance Management 
  • Operating a Representative Office 
  • Administration 
  • Providing Trust Services other than as a trustee of an express trust

CATEGORY 5

  • An Islamic Financial Institution which Manages a PSIAu (Profit Sharing Investment Account unrestricted)

HOW WE HELP

Assisting companies in obtaining FSRA authorization
1

Our initial step is to identify the regulated aspects of your business activities and understand their implications. A meeting will be scheduled to delve into your business model, internal controls pertaining to governance, risk, and compliance, and the key personnel within your organization. This will allow us to precisely determine the necessary 'permissions' for your operations.

Next, we will proceed with the process of gathering all necessary information to construct your comprehensive information pack. Our team will provide detailed guidance on the required details to ensure full compliance with FSRA regulations.

SPEAK TO AN EXPERT


2

After receiving the necessary information from you, it is now our responsibility to customize your application package. The contents of the application package will be tailored to suit the specific requirements of each company, taking into consideration the size and intricacy of your business model.

Through collaboration with you, we will develop comprehensive policies and procedures, craft your Regulatory Business Plan, establish a robust Compliance Monitoring Programme, and prepare all necessary documentation. Your application should be a true reflection of your business, tailored to meet the expectations of the FSRA. Our expertise in understanding the FSRA's criteria for evaluating applications will enable us to proactively address any potential concerns, thereby minimizing delays in the approval process.

Once the application pack has been finalized, we will forward it to you for your thorough review.

SPEAK TO AN EXPERT
3

To initiate the FSRA authorisation process, all applications must be submitted online through the FSRA’s Connect system. Rest assured, we will handle this on your behalf. Please note that payment of the application fees will be required at this stage.

Upon receipt of your application, the FSRA will formally acknowledge it and assign a dedicated Case Officer to oversee the process. Your Case Officer may reach out to you for further clarification or additional information, and our team will be available to assist in crafting professional and comprehensive responses. Should there be a need for further discussions with the FSRA, your designated Consultant will be at your disposal.

SPEAK TO AN EXPERT


4

Before granting authorization, you will receive a "Minded to Authorize" notification, during which the FSRA may request that you fulfill certain conditions. We will provide guidance on how to meet these requirements, and once satisfied, the FSRA will typically grant authorization within 24 hours.

Once you are granted authorization, it is imperative to adhere to the regulations set forth by the FSRA and fulfill the commitments outlined in your application. A comprehensive handover meeting will be arranged to furnish you with your compliance manual and framework, guiding you through the practical steps required to ensure compliance with the FSRA's regulations. Should you require further assistance in meeting your ongoing compliance responsibilities, we offer supplementary support services that may be of interest to you. Please consult with one of our specialists for more details.

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