How to Start an Advertising Company in Abu Dhabi, UAE: Procedure, Documents Required, Cost, What type of License to obtain?

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Procedure to Start an Advertising Company in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Create a detailed business plan outlining your company’s structure, services, target market, and financial projections.
Decide which specific promotional activities your business will participate in, such as event management, public relations, marketing, and media preparation.
Select a legal framework for your business. A limited liability company (LLC), partnership, sole proprietorship, or free zone entity are among the options. Establishing a business in a free zone could be the better choice for foreign investors.
Select a distinctive name for your company and get the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED) to authorize it.
For first permission, submit the required paperwork to the DED. Your business strategy, copies of your passport, and other pertinent paperwork may be included in this.
Get your company an office space. The precise specifications set forth by the licensing authority may determine the size and placement.
Create the Memorandum of Association with the DED and have it notarized. The company’s operations, shareholder structure, and other important information are described in this paper.
Apply to the DED for a commercial license and trade name. Submitting further paperwork, including the MOA, copies of your passport, and the visa page, can be necessary for this.
Pay the required amounts for the license issue, trade name reservation, and other related expenses.

copies of the owner(s) of the business’s passport, as well as any partners or shareholders.
Copies of the visa page for the business owner(s) and any partners or shareholders.
Emirates ID for each shareholder, partner, and business owner.
No Objection Certificate from the current employer or sponsor of the business owner(s).
A detailed business plan outlining your company’s structure, services, target market, and financial projections.
Drafted and notarized MOA specifying the company’s shareholding structure, activities, and other key details.
A lease agreement for the office space where your advertising company will operate.
Application for reserving the trade name you have chosen for your business.
Approvals from relevant authorities, if applicable, depending on the nature of your advertising activities.
Receipts of payment for various fees associated with the trade name reservation, license issuance, and other relevant costs.
A bank reference letter for the business owner(s) or shareholders.
Proof of initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or relevant free zone authority.

The cost can change depending on things like the type of license, office space, and other ancillary costs. Speaking with legal counsel or business setup professionals is advised for a precise estimate.

This is a general license that allows businesses to engage in commercial activities. It suits most advertising companies involved in marketing, media planning, and related services.
You might require a media license if your advertising agency specializes in media-related operations, such as print, radio, television, or online media. The National Media Council (NMC) is the licensing body for this content.
If your advertising company focuses on organizing events, promotions, or exhibitions, you may require a specific license for event management.
A PR license may be necessary if your advertising company provides public relations services, including media relations, crisis communication, and reputation management.
Some jurisdictions may have specific licensing categories for advertising agencies. Check with the relevant authorities to determine if there is a specialized license for your type of advertising services.
The relevant free zone authority may provide you a license if you decide to establish your advertising business there. Free zones frequently provide particular advantages and rules designed with various sectors in mind.