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Corporate Advisory & Support

Why ADGM is the Ultimate Gateway for African Investments

17th October 2025

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has rapidly emerged as more than just another international financial centre - it has become the gateway where African opportunities and global capital meet.

As Africa continues to position itself as one of the world’s fastest-growing regions, ADGM provides the ideal platform for investors and businesses to structure, protect, and scale their investments with confidence.

A Location That Connects Continents

Strategically located in the heart of the UAE, Abu Dhabi sits perfectly between Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. Most African capitals are only a few hours away, making ADGM a natural hub for investors who want proximity to African markets without compromising on international reach or credibility. It’s where African opportunity meets global accessibility.

Common Law and Legal Certainty

What truly sets ADGM apart is its legal framework. It applies direct English common law – not a local adaptation. This gives African investors and global partners the assurance that contracts are enforceable and disputes are resolved under a familiar and trusted system.

For businesses operating across borders, legal certainty isn’t just a convenience – it’s a cornerstone for sustainable investment.

Tax and Structuring Advantages

The UAE’s favourable tax regime is another key advantage. There’s no capital gains tax, no withholding tax, and access to an extensive network of double tax treaties, many of which include African nations.

When combined with ADGM’s flexible corporate structures – such as SPVs, Funds, and Foundations – investors can manage, hold, and protect African assets in a globally recognised, tax-efficient way.

A Trusted Hub for African Capital

ADGM is increasingly becoming home to African-focused fund managers, private equity firms, and family offices. Its regulator, the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), strikes the right balance between robust oversight and commercial flexibility, ensuring international standards of governance while encouraging innovation and growth.
For investors, this means confidence, credibility, and control.

Backed by the UAE’s Own Investment Momentum

The UAE is not just a facilitator of investment in Africa – it’s an active participant.

Through sovereign wealth funds such as Mubadala and ADQ, the UAE continues to invest heavily in Africa’s infrastructure, logistics, energy, and technology sectors. ADGM serves as a natural base for structuring and managing these investments, creating momentum that’s drawing private capital and businesses to follow suit.

Neutral Ground for Dispute Resolution

Cross-border investment can sometimes bring disputes – and ADGM provides a neutral, English-speaking forum for resolving them. The ADGM Courts and Arbitration Centre offer internationally recognised dispute resolution mechanisms, ensuring that both African and global investors have access to a trusted, transparent, and independent legal environment.

ADGM isn’t just another financial free zone – it’s the platform that connects African growth with international capital. With its strategic location, English common law system, tax efficiency, and world-class regulatory framework, ADGM is redefining how and where African investments are managed.

For African businesses looking to expand globally, and for international investors seeking African opportunities, ADGM makes the journey smoother, safer, and more successful.

If you’re exploring how to structure your African investments through ADGM, or you want expert guidance on establishing your entity, Luxe Incorporations is here to help. Contact us to start your ADGM journey and unlock the gateway to African growth.


A photo of Sarah NeggaSarah Negga is a Relationship Manager at Luxe Incorporations.
[email protected]
+971 54 266 5954

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