Theta7 may assist in the preparation, review, and electronic submission of annual accounts, subject to client instruction.
Changing the accounting period can be a strategic decision for many companies. Businesses often adjust their financial year-end to align with parent companies, optimize tax planning, or better match operational cycles. For entities registered in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), this process requires adherence to specific regulations and a structured filing procedure.
The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is an international financial center based in Abu Dhabi, providing a robust regulatory environment for businesses. It operates under English common law and offers a transparent framework that attracts multinational corporations and startups alike.
Under the ADGM Companies Regulations, companies must have an accounting reference date that defines their financial year. However, companies are permitted to amend this date, provided that:
The new accounting period is not shorter than 6 months.
The new accounting period does not exceed 18 months.
Directors must ensure that changes are justified, recorded in corporate governance documents, and consistent with company operations.
Theta7 can assist in:
Drafting the Board Resolution
Preparing supporting filings
Managing the portal submission
Use your company’s registered credentials to access the ADGM online portal.
From the Entity List, select your company and click Maintain Company.
Select the option to amend your accounting period.
Provide the new start and end dates ensuring compliance with the 6–18 month rule.
Attach a signed Board Resolution (PDF) confirming shareholder and director approval.
Make payment of USD 100 via the ADGM portal’s secure gateway.
Once submitted, you’ll receive acknowledgment from the ADGM Registrar.
The resolution should include:
Company name and registration details
Decision to amend the accounting reference date
Signatures of authorized directors
Some companies may also include:
Meeting minutes
Supporting justifications for the change
Every ADGM entity is required to lodge its annual accounts with the Registrar in accordance with the ADGM Companies Regulations. The filing deadline must be observed strictly. Penalties for late submission are the responsibility of company directors.
Clients must complete the following steps within the ADGM online portal:
a. Log in to the ADGM Portal using your registered company credentials.
b. Access the Entity List – from the main dashboard, click “Entity List.”
c. Select Maintain Company – locate your company name and choose “Maintain Company.”
d. Navigate to Lodge Annual Accounts – from the available actions, select “Lodge Annual Accounts.”
e. Upload Annual Accounts Section-by-Section: Each section of the statutory accounts must be uploaded individually in PDF format. Clearly mark the company status as Dormant (no trading activity) or Active (trading company).
f. Verification & Confirmation – ensure all uploaded sections are complete, then submit for final filing.
Dormant companies: File simplified accounts.
Active companies: Submit detailed statutory accounts.
Dates outside the 6–18 month rule will result in rejection.
Failure to upload a Board Resolution can delay approval.
Missing deadlines leads to fines, which are the responsibility of directors.
Directors and appointed officers are responsible for ensuring filings are accurate, complete, and submitted on time.
By working with a trusted advisor, companies can ensure compliance and efficiency.
Changing your accounting period in ADGM is a straightforward process if you follow the regulations and prepare the necessary documents. Directors must ensure compliance, accuracy, and timeliness. By leveraging expert support from Theta7, companies can handle filings efficiently, avoid penalties, and maintain strong governance practices.
Changing your accounting period or filing annual accounts with ADGM doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right guidance, your company can stay compliant, avoid penalties, and save valuable time.
At Theta7, we specialize in helping businesses navigate ADGM requirements — from drafting Board Resolutions to managing complete portal submissions.
Get in touch with us today to streamline your ADGM filings and ensure full compliance:
