Professional licences surged 193%, reflecting strong growth in new businesses across Abu Dhabi’s regions.
Abu Dhabi: The number of new business licences issued in Abu Dhabi increased by 21% in the first three months of 2026 compared with the same period last year, officials said on Monday.The Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA), the business registration arm of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), said the increase was recorded between January and March 2026, with growth seen across various regions and economic sectors.
The number of active licences in Abu Dhabi also rose by 12% in the first quarter compared with Q1 2025.
New licence registrations increased across all three regions of Abu Dhabi. Al Ain saw the highest growth at 58%, followed by Al Dhafra Region at 28%, and Abu Dhabi city at 18%.
By business category, commercial licences rose by 20%, while professional licences surged by 193%. Licences related to agriculture, fisheries, and livestock activities also grew by 5%.
Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, Undersecretary of ADDED, said the department remains committed to ongoing engagement with companies, investors, and stakeholders to further develop policies and support the business sector in sustaining operations, improving the competitiveness of Abu Dhabi’s economy, and strengthening the emirate’s position as an attractive destination for talent, businesses, and investment.
Industrial activity in the emirate also recorded growth, with industrial licences moving into the production phase rising by 3% in Q1 2026, according to ADRA. A total of 34 new industrial facilities became fully operational during the first three months of the year.
The increase in industrial activity aligns with the objectives of the Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy, supporting expanded local production capacity and stronger supply chains.
The first quarter also saw higher demand for business licence categories targeted at entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Tajer Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi Trader) licences rose by 17%, while freelance licences surged by 261%. “Mobdea” licences, which support home-based businesses, increased by 15%.
Commercial activity indicators also showed growth, with promotional offers up by 2% and advertisements increasing by 26% during the quarter.
Mohamed Munif Al Mansoori, Director General of ADRA, said that efforts over the past period have focused on strengthening market stability, protecting consumer rights, and ensuring the smooth flow of supply chains.
He added that cooperation from economic establishments has helped ensure the availability of goods and services, protect consumer rights, and maintain business continuity.
