New economic licence registrations in Abu Dhabi rose 5% year on year in the first half of 2026, according to figures from the Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA).
Renewed licences also increased 5%, while advertising permits climbed 14%, pointing to broader growth in commercial activity across the emirate.
The strongest increase came from freelancers, with freelancer licences rising 224% compared with the first half of 2025. New crafts and occupational licences grew 136%, while Mobdea licences increased 10% and the Tajer Abu Dhabi category rose 8%. Commercial licences were up 4%.
Industrial activity also advanced. ADRA said 90 industrial licences moved into the construction phase during the period, while 61 completed construction and began production. The 151 licences represent more than AED 106 million in investment.
The authority introduced 11 new economic activities during the first half and granted businesses a three-month exemption from fines for late licence renewals.
ADRA Director General Mohamed Munif Al Mansoori said the figures reflect efforts to maintain a transparent and supportive business environment. Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, said the performance was significant given challenging regional geopolitical and economic conditions.
Source: Gulf Economist
