ADGM Tech Startup License: Self-Filed UAE Entity, $1,000, No Agent

In 2022, I set up an ADGM Tech Startup License by myself — no CSP, no agent. The registration fee was $1,000. It is now $1,500. Most guides assume you will use a CSP (Corporate Service Provider), which adds $3,000–5,000 on top. I skipped it. It worked. I also set up a UAE mainland company separately — different purpose, different process. That comparison is worth knowing. (I had a Dubai Virtual Working Program visa at the time and was planning to transfer sponsorship before it expired.) Where ADGM fits among UAE options Option Cost (approx.) Legal framework Notes ADGM Tech Startup $1,500 + misc English common law Self-filing possible; Hub71 accepted companies must incorporate here DIFC $10,000+ English common law Finance-focused, expensive Dubai free zones (DMCC, IFZA etc.) $3,000–8,000 UAE civil law Wide variety, Dubai address RAKEZ $1,500–5,500 UAE civil law Cheapest, less prestige Mainland Varies UAE civil law CSP typically required My reason for ADGM over Dubai free zones: cheapest