Supporting and facilitating all financial activities in ADGM
ADGM believes that a fair, efficient and transparent marketplace is fundamental in meeting the dynamic and growing needs of the Abu Dhabi economy and global markets. ADGM’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority was established to advocate a progressive financial services environment and uphold the integrity of the whole international financial centre by managing any potential risks exposure and undesirable impact.
FSRA's policies and the adherence to ADGM's rules and regulations, which are modelled on and consistent with internationally recognised standards, ensure that financial entities operate with certainty, market participants thrive in an equal level-playing environment, and the best interests of investors are safeguarded.
Offering the highest level of regulatory transparency and engagement, the FSRA practices an open and progressive approach in its regulatory operations, through public consultations, engagements on introduction and amendments of rules and policies.
Financial Services Regulatory Authority services
Committed to operating a fair, efficient and responsive regulatory environment for its market participants and stakeholders both in the UAE and internationally.
Obligations of Financial Services Entities
Financial services entities registered in ADGM need to meet specific obligations set out by the FSRA. These obligations are in addition to standard obligations that all ADGM registered entities are required to meet.
See detailsSupervision
Playing a critical role in fulfilling the objectives of ADGM, the FSRA acts swiftly and decisively to address and deter conduct that may adversely affect the integrity of the ADGM or the stability of the financial services industry in the ADGM.
See detailsEnforcement
The FSRA adopts a risk-based approach to regulation, focusing our efforts on those activities that we perceive as posing the greatest risk to the furtherance of our objectives.
See detailsIndependent Review
The Appeals Panel is in place to promote proper observance of due process. Learn more about how the Appeals Panel helps ensure consistency, transparent and proportionate use of the FSRA’s powers.
See detailsComplaints
The FSRA assesses regulatory complaints concerning potential contraventions of regulations and rules that the FSRA administers, potential misconduct by any person that it regulates, or any conduct that will prevent the FSRA from meeting its objectives, including any activities that may cause damage to the reputation of ADGM.
See detailsFinancial Crime Prevention
ADGM is committed to promoting sound practices in financial crime compliance which include AML/CFT, and compliance with international tax reporting obligations including FATCA and CRS.
See detailsFSRA General Application Process
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority welcomes financial services firms and institutions who wish to establish their presence in Abu Dhabi’s financial free zone.
See detailsAuthorisation and Supplementary Forms
Applicant will be required to fill out the requisite forms when making an application to conduct financial services regulated activities in ADGM. The forms include guidance notes and should be read in conjunction with the relevant legislation.
See detailsFintech
ADGM has the most sophisticated regulatory frameworks for financial services, particularly for fintech, providing clarity, transparency and security for entrepreneurs and their investors.
See detailsLaws, Regulations and Rules
A sound regulatory framework of clear and transparent rules, benchmarked against international standards and global best practices.
Federal Legislation
The Federal Legislation, including the UAE Constitution, established ADGM as a financial free zone.
See detailsAbu Dhabi Legislation
All governance, legislative, and regulatory framework and activities to be carried on in ADGM is set out by Abu Dhabi Law No. 4 of 2013.
See detailsFinancial Services Regulations and Rules
Financial Services and Markets Regulations (FSMR) establishes the legislative and regulatory framework for financial services in ADGM, and has been broadly modelled on the UK's Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA) and other related legislation.
See detailsFSRA Guidance and Policy Statements
ADGM and its three Authorities issue relevant Guidance, based on English common law, to communicate and explain the principles that underpin the legal framework.
See detailsFSRA Public Consultations
ADGM informs the public and marketplace about its plans and invites comments on proposed initiatives and amendments to rules through public consultations.
See detailsWaivers and Modifications
An Authorised Person may apply to the FSRA for a waiver or a modification of specific regulatory requirements. The firm shall submit written details of the reason for the request and all relevant facts to support the application.
See detailsNotices of Publication
ADGM Authorities have and will continue to issue relevant notices and circulars to explain changes and updates to stakeholders.
See detailsGlobally recognised financial services regulator
ADGM's FSRA continues to build bridges with fellow regulators and leading industry bodies, foster collaboration and effective cross-border co-operation.
Memoranda of Understanding
The FSRA is a signatory to 115 bilateral MoUs with both national and international bodies including International financial centres and regulators. The FSRA became a signatory to the IOSCO MMoU in January 2017, and subsequently to the IOSCO Enhanced MMoU in December 2020, and to the IAIS MMoU in October 2018.
Memberships and Associations
The FSRA is a member of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO); Basel Committee Consultative Group (BCG); International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS); Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB); World Alliance of International Financial Centres (WAIFC); International Network of Financial Centres for Sustainability (FC4S); and Sustainable Banking Network (led by IFC-Global Bank).
FSRA Public Register
The public can access vital information about a financial services entity or related individuals including contact details and the types of financial services activities an entity can carry out in ADGM.
