guide

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a diverse metropolis of industry and commerce. As one of the globe’s largest producers of oil, the city has strived to diversify its economy in recent years, investing largely in the tourism and financial services sectors. It is now home to important financial institutions including the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates and the corporate headquarters of a long list of companies and multinational corporations. Abu Dhabi is also the largest of the UAE’s seven member emirates, comprising almost 87% of the country’s total area. It has seen rapid development as a hub for business and now accounts for about two-thirds of the United Arab Emirates economy.

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The location

Abu Dhabi is a modern city with tall office buildings, broad boulevards and busy shops. 

Its main urban areas surround Abu Dhabi Mall which has become known as the heart of the city. 

These include Al Zahiyah which offers business a top location downtown. 

King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street is the ideal space for businesses looking for a prestigious address while Al Tibbiya is centrally located close to Shaikh Khalifa Medical City and is a cost-effective option for companies wanting to move into the city.

Abu Dhabi Mosque

Looking for an office in Abu Dhabi

The market in Abu Dhabi seems to be increasing in demand as more and more firms are looking to expand into the city. 

Riyadh, an area running alongside Abu Dhabi, is also developing at a fast pace, allowing more space for businesses to grow.

Once settled in Dubai, businesses often expand to an Abu Dhabi location to open an additional branch. 

Abu Dhabi is also a more cost effective solution than Dubai for companies wishing to set up in the emirates. 

It is now the second most sought-after location in the UAE.

Where a company chooses to set up in Abu Dhabi depends on their type of business. 


For law firms and corporate sectors Al Zahiyah is a great choice. 


For more established business with a large budget, Al Khubeirah is a prestigious choice, and for new starters and businesses with a lower budget, Al Tibbiya is a great location.

Costs

The cost of office space in Abu Dhabi is reasonably priced but varies greatly depending on the location in the city. 

In general it is around 20% cheaper than Dubai prices, making it a more affordable choice for businesses. 


Prices in Abu Dhabi often include the cost of amenities including security and administrative support, making setting up in the city even simpler. 

Office sizes

Abu Dhabi offers flexible work space ranging from one man offices to large enquiries for growing businesses, so lack of space is not a major issue in the city. 

Often smaller offices for 1-5 people are popular in the area.

The business centres in the city are also generally very accommodating and are able to put up partitions for companies looking for more privacy. 

Instant Offices is able to help find companies a suitable office space no matter their size, and are able to accommodate most enquiries. 


Why choose Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi offers businesses a well-known and reputable position in the UAE.

It is also a cost-effective option, with office prices lower than some other major cities in the country. 

The capital city is the wealthiest emirate of the UAE in terms of GDP and also has a high income rate, drawing in international experts from around the world.

Finally, its position in the United Arab Emirates makes it an easy commute to and from surrounding areas.

Five things you probably didn't know about Abu Dhabi:
  • The Capital Gate tower is the world’s furthest leaning man-made tower; the 18 degree lean is four times that of Italy’s Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • Only 30% of the emirate is inhabited, with the remaining vast expanses covered mainly by desert and arid land
  • New galleries and museums are regularly popping up with plans in place to open branches of the world-renowned Guggenheim and Louvre museums
  • The name Abu Dhabi means ‘Father of Gazelles’ when literally translated from Arabic
  • Approximately 80% of the population are expatriates


Abu Dhabi Tower Gate

A closer look at Abu Dhabi

These are the most popular areas in which to rent office space:

Abu Dhabi Mall
  • As the city’s main retail centre, Abu Dhabi Mall is often referred to as the centre point of the city 
  • Located in central Abu Dhabi, the mall has thriving service and shopping sectors
  • After opening in 2001, it has attracted hundreds of shops and restaurants because of its central location and appeal to tourists
  • This includes big names in retail such as Adidas and Calvin Klein

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Al Zahiyah

  • Al Zahiyah is a popular choice with established businesses and entrepreneurs with a good budget
  • As one of the city’s most expensive areas, the district offers companies a prestigious address and has attracted large corporate names including Abu Dhabi Gas Industries Limited
  • The area is also a popular choice for law firms such as Clyde & Company

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Al Tibbiya

  • Al Tibbiya is a cost-effective choice for start-ups and new businesses looking to set up in Abu Dhabi
  • Home to financial institutions such as the Union National Bank, the area is a great choice for businesses with a lower budget while still supporting larger corporations
  • The district hosts a number of affordable centres offering both private and coworking office spaces 

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Want to find out more?

If you’re looking to move into the area, or simply require more information, contact Instant Offices' specialist local consultants.

Email our team or call us and we'll be delighted to help you.


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