Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi Business Setup: Licenses, Process, Costs

Why Choose the Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi for Business Setup?

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi is one of the largest and most strategically important free economic zones in the UAE, located between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with direct access to Khalifa Port and key transport routes. The zone actively attracts international investors thanks to its industrial infrastructure, low logistics costs and ready-made turnkey solutions.

Company registration in KIZAD is possible remotely, without the need for personal presence. Flexible licence packages are available, including manufacturing, logistics and service activities. In addition, the zone offers competitive rental rates, favorable corporate taxation, and 100% foreign ownership of businesses.

KIZAD is suitable for both large enterprises and SMEs, providing warehouses and offices, as well as convenient visa packages. It is an advantageous choice for those who value stability, efficiency and strategic location.

About the Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) was established in 2010 and is part of the state-owned AD Ports Group. The zone was created to support industrial growth and economic diversification in the UAE as part of the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 strategy. KIZAD is positioned as the country's key industrial and logistics hub, connected to the deep-water port of Khalifa, which provides direct access to global markets. The zone offers world-class infrastructure focused on manufacturing, logistics and trading companies and is actively supported by the government, making it a reliable platform for international business.

Business Activities Allowed in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi offers three main types of licences for your choice:

• An industrial licence allows the import of raw materials, production, assembly, packaging and export of products (metals, chemicals, textiles, electronics, food industry).
• A trading or general trading licence covers the import, export, distribution, storage and trade of a wide range of goods (e.g. food products, automobiles, construction materials, electronics, jewellery, agricultural products).
• A service licence allows the provision of services: logistics, freight, marketing, consulting, event organisation, catering, restaurants, tourist services, etc.

Special activities in KIZAD include car assembly, shipbuilding and repair, pharmaceutical manufacturing, aerospace and renewable technologies. Some activities require prior approval from the zone, especially industrial and specific licences.

Step-by-Step Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi Company Formation and Registration

Registering a company in the Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) is a clearly structured process focused on transparency, speed and minimal bureaucratic barriers. With government support and modern infrastructure, KIZAD offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to start a business in one of the most strategically advantageous zones in the UAE. Below you can find what you need to start your company in KIZAD.

Required Documents and Timeline

A standard set of documents is required to register a company in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD). The basic list of documents includes:

• A copy of each founder's and director's passport.
• A passport-sized photograph.
• Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill no older than 3 months).
• Resume/CV (upon request, especially for service activities).
• Entry visa or copy of UAE visa (if the applicant is already in the country).
• Choice of intended activity and company name.
• Completed KIZAD application forms.
• In the case of a corporate founder, the company incorporation documents, board resolution, Good Standing Certificate and notarised translations are required.

Some types of business may require prior approval (e.g. pharmaceuticals, food products, logistics).

Provided that the application is complete and no additional approvals are required, the registration and licensing process takes 5 to 10 business days. This includes application review, preparation of the lease agreement (if a physical office/warehouse is required), signing of documents, and issuance of the licence. The process can be completed entirely remotely through representatives or agents.

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Remote Registration Option

Starting a company in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) can be done completely remotely, making this zone particularly attractive to international investors. No personal visit to the UAE is required; all stages can be completed online with the help of an authorised registration agent or legal representative.

The process includes:

• Providing scans of documents (passport, proof of address, etc.) via a secure channel.
• Selecting the type of activity and company name remotely.
• Video verification of identity, conducted via a secure platform (e.g. Zoom or MS Teams) with a zone representative or agent. This is a mandatory procedure to confirm identity and consent to registration.
• Electronic signing of documents, a secure digital signature is used. Originals can be sent by courier if necessary.
• Receipt of licences and founding documents in electronic form.

It is also possible to open a bank account remotely, through partners, if provided for by the bank. This format is particularly convenient for freelancers, start-ups, and foreign owners, minimising the cost and time spent travelling to the UAE.

Types of Licenses and Costs in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of licences tailored to various types of activities, from industrial production to logistics and services. This makes the zone attractive to both large enterprises and small and medium-sized businesses. The cost of licences varies depending on the type of activity, location format and additional options, including rent, number of visas and the need for warehouse or office space. Below are the main types of licences and basic rates.

Visa Packages and Pricing Breakdown

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi suggests flexible visa packages that are suitable for both individual entrepreneurs and companies with larger structures. The cost of annual company maintenance depends on the number of visas, the selected licence and the type of office or workspace.

Main Visa packages in KIZAD can be the following:

Visa-free package (Zero Visa Package):

• Type of accommodation: virtual office (Registered Agent Address).
• Visa quota: 0
• Approximate cost: from AED 11,000 per year
• Ideal for holding companies and companies without local staff

1-visa package (Flexi-Desk or Shared Desk):

• Visa quota: 1
• Space: flexible workspace (desk).
• Includes lease agreement and licence.
• Approximate cost: from AED 14,000–16,000 per year.

2–5 visas (Executive Office or Warehouse Unit):

• Space type: office/warehouse for rent.
• Cost varies from AED 20,000 to 40,000+
• Includes licence, rent and visa quota.
• Proof of employment or business activity required.

Additional costs include:

• E-Channel registration: mandatory for obtaining residence visas; one-time fee of ~AED 2,500.
• Visa deposit: may be required in the amount of AED 3,000 per applicant (refundable).
• Medical insurance, Emirates ID, medical tests: ~AED 2,000–2,500 per person.

Packages can be expanded by purchasing additional visas or moving the company to a larger space. This provides scalability and flexibility as the business grows.

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi Company Formation: Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Choose This Free Zone?

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi is a strategically oriented zone for businesses involved in manufacturing, logistics and export. Below are the criteria for who is suitable for registering a company in the KIZAD Free Zone and who would be better off considering alternative jurisdictions for business setup in the UAE.

KIZAD is ideal for:

• Manufacturing and logistics companies focused on exports.
• Companies in need of warehouse space, industrial sites or maritime logistics.
• Startups and investors looking for a cost-effective zone with government support.
• Businesses that need access to Khalifa Port and related infrastructure.
• Consulting and service companies (when renting an office).

KIZAD is not recommended for:

• Freelancers who do not need a visa or office. Creative zones (e.g., DMC, IFZA) are more advantageous.
• Companies that need VAT registration. KIZAD does not automatically issue VAT registration numbers.
• High-risk jurisdictions (Iran, Syria, Afghanistan, etc.). Separate approval is required, which is often denied.
• IT start-ups focused on international networks. DIC or ADGM is preferable.
• Companies looking for a prestigious office in the city centre. KIZAD is more suitable for industrial use.

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi is a zone focused on physical infrastructure, large volumes, and strategic logistics chains, rather than image or remote services.

Conclusion

Establishing a company in the Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) is a practical solution for entrepreneurs focused on industrial production, warehouse logistics, and export. The zone offers robust infrastructure, access to the deep-water port of Khalifa, government support, and flexible licenses, making it particularly attractive for medium and large businesses.

KIZAD stands out for its combination of affordable prices, remote registration options, and a wide range of permitted activities. Simple processes, transparent requirements, and minimal bureaucratic barriers allow you to quickly launch your business and focus on operations. For manufacturers, distributors and logistics operators, it is one of the most logical entry points into the UAE and GCC markets.

To save time and avoid legal mistakes, it is recommended to consult with specialised advisors who will help you choose the right package, prepare documents and register your company on a turnkey basis.