Abu Dhabi Authority and Youth Business Council Sign MoU to Boost Entrepreneurship

Collaboration to Empower Entrepreneurs

The Abu Dhabi Authority for Registration (ADRA) has announced a partnership with the Abu Dhabi Youth Business Council, aiming to empower entrepreneurs and bolster the industrial sector as part of the UAE’s drive toward a more diversified and sustainable economy. This collaboration was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed during the ‘Make in the UAE’ forum.

The MoU focuses on simplifying regulatory processes, raising awareness about licensing requirements, and connecting entrepreneurs with quality opportunities in Abu Dhabi. This initiative is designed to support the growth of startups and small to medium enterprises, enhancing the competitiveness of the private sector in alignment with the emirate’s objectives of fostering an innovation-driven and knowledge-based economy.

The signing ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, Undersecretary of the Department of Economic Development – Abu Dhabi, and Masoud Al Masoud, Vice Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Family Business Council. The agreement was signed by Mohammed Munif Al Mansouri, General Director of ADRA, and Mansour Abdul Jabbar Al Sayigh, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Youth Business Council.

Joint Initiatives and Workshops

Under the terms of the MoU, both parties will collaborate on implementing joint programs and initiatives, organizing informational sessions and specialized workshops, and developing coordination mechanisms to ensure a tangible and sustainable impact on the entrepreneurial ecosystem. This partnership will also involve the exchange of reports and insights regarding challenges and opportunities, facilitating the development of data-driven solutions and policies.

Mohammed Munif Al Mansouri emphasized Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for entrepreneurship, noting that supportive frameworks and flexible regulations have enhanced trust in the emirate. He highlighted the increasing number of economic licenses, particularly for ‘Abu Dhabi Trader’, ‘Free Profession’, and ‘Creative’, as evidence of the effectiveness of initiatives designed to meet entrepreneurs’ needs.

Growth in Licenses and Economic Opportunities

In 2025, new ‘Creative’ licenses, aimed at Emirati women interested in the creative sector, saw a 32% increase. Additionally, ‘Free Profession’ licenses issued last year surged by 70%, while new ‘Abu Dhabi Trader’ licenses rose by 24%. The ‘Abu Dhabi Trader’ license allows entrepreneurs to engage in over 1,200 economic activities without the need for a physical office for three years.

Al Mansouri reiterated that this collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Youth Business Council underscores the commitment to fostering a flexible and growth-oriented business environment. He stated that easing procedures and connecting projects with quality opportunities are fundamental to supporting industrial growth and enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy.

Mansour Abdul Jabbar Al Sayigh added that the signing of this MoU during the ‘Make in the UAE’ forum highlights the importance of linking entrepreneurs with the industrial sector and related opportunities. This partnership aims to facilitate the transition of entrepreneurs from concept to execution, connecting them with value chains that enhance their business growth and contribute to the economic diversification goals of Abu Dhabi.

Commitment to Economic Development

This partnership reflects Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to creating an attractive economic environment and enabling entrepreneurs to play an active role in the development and diversification of the economy. The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry continues to play a pivotal role through its business councils, enhancing strategic partnerships with governmental and private entities to maintain the emirate’s status as a global business and investment hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the MoU signed by ADRA and the Youth Business Council?

The MoU aims to empower entrepreneurs and support the industrial sector in Abu Dhabi.

What initiatives will be implemented under this collaboration?

Joint programs, workshops, and knowledge exchange on challenges and opportunities will be implemented.

How much did ‘Creative’ licenses increase in 2025?

‘Creative’ licenses increased by 32% in 2025.

What is the significance of the ‘Abu Dhabi Trader’ license?

The ‘Abu Dhabi Trader’ license allows entrepreneurs to operate in over 1,200 activities without needing a physical office for three years.

How does this partnership align with Abu Dhabi’s economic goals?

The partnership supports the emirate’s objectives of fostering a diversified and sustainable economy.