What an ADGM SPV is for
A special purpose vehicle is a company set up to hold something rather than to trade. Founders use ADGM SPVs to hold shares in an operating business, family offices use them to separate assets by purpose, and investors use them to hold a single property or a stake in a deal.
ADGM applies English common law directly, which many investors and banks already understand. That is a large part of why holding structures choose it.
Who runs an SPV day to day
An SPV has no office and no employees. ADGM requires a licensed corporate service provider to act as its registered agent and registered office. The provider keeps the statutory records, receives official correspondence and helps with annual filings.
The provider charges its own annual fee. We show that fee on its own line in the calculator, at cost, so you can see exactly what you are paying for.
What it costs
The table above shows ADGM's fees for an SPV in the first year and on renewal. The calculator below adds the service provider's fee, our flat formation fee and any add-ons you choose, and shows your year 2 cost so renewals are never a surprise.
How long it takes
Once you have shared passports, proof of address and details of the shareholders and beneficial owners, we draft the articles and registers in a few working days. ADGM's Registration Authority then reviews the application; its timing sets the rest.
Before you start
- Decide who will own the SPV and who its directors will be.
- Have certified passport copies and proof of address ready for every shareholder, director and beneficial owner.
- Speak to your tax adviser about how the SPV's income will be treated in the UAE and in your home country.