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Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi

Gateway to Global Trade and Industrial Excellence

Established

2010

Companies

500+

Location

Abu Dhabi

About KEZAD

KEZAD is Abu Dhabi's premier integrated trade, logistics and industrial hub, strategically located between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. As one of the largest economic zones in the Middle East, KEZAD offers world-class infrastructure, multimodal connectivity, and comprehensive business solutions for companies across various industries.

Governing Authority:Abu Dhabi Ports Group
Official Website

Interested in setting up in KEZAD?

Let's discuss your requirements and find the best solution for your business.

Key Industries

Manufacturing
Logistics and Distribution
Automotive
Food and Beverage
Pharmaceuticals
Petrochemicals

Ideal For

Large-scale manufacturingRegional distribution centersIndustrial operationsImport/export businessesAutomotive assemblyFood processing

License Types & Costs

Industrial License

For manufacturing and industrial activities within the zone

Starting from

25,000

AED

Activities Allowed

Manufacturing, assembly, processing, and industrial operations

Commercial License

For trading and commercial activities

Starting from

20,000

AED

Activities Allowed

Import, export, distribution, and trading activities

Service License

For service-based businesses and consultancy

Starting from

18,000

AED

Activities Allowed

Professional services, consultancy, and support services

Processing Time

7-10 working days

Annual Renewal

Same as initial license fee

Validity

1 year, renewable

Need help choosing the right license type?

Our experts can guide you through the licensing options and help you select the best fit.

Visa Information

Shareholders, directors, and employees of licensed companies

2-3 visas

Desk Space

4-6 visas

Private Office

Based on business plan

Warehouse/Industrial

Investor VisaEmployee VisaPartner VisaDependent Visa
Processing:5-7 working days
Golden Visa Eligible

Estimated Costs

License Fee
From 18,000 AED
Visa (per person)
~4,500 AED
Office Space
From 15,000 AED/year
Estimated First Year Total
45,000 - 120,000 AED
Approximate

Costs vary based on business activity, office type, and number of visas required. Industrial plots and warehouses have separate pricing structures.

Want a detailed cost breakdown for your business?

Request a personalized quote tailored to your specific business needs.

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • One of the largest economic zones in the Middle East
  • Direct connectivity to Khalifa Port for seamless logistics
  • Integrated multimodal transportation (sea, rail, road)
  • World-class industrial infrastructure and facilities
  • Strategic location between Abu Dhabi and Dubai
  • Strong government backing from Abu Dhabi Ports Group
  • Specialized zones for different industries
  • Excellent connectivity to regional and global markets
  • Comprehensive business support services

Considerations

  • Higher setup costs compared to some other free zones
  • More suitable for larger businesses than small startups
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Distance from major city centers may be inconvenient for some businesses

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose KEZAD?

100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor required
Zero corporate tax on qualifying income
Full repatriation of capital and profits
No currency or exchange restrictions
World-class infrastructure and connectivity
Streamlined business registration process

Best For

  • Large-scale manufacturing
  • Industrial operations
  • Logistics companies
  • Import/export businesses
  • Automotive sector
  • Food processing

Not Ideal For

  • Small startups
  • Service-only businesses
  • IT companies
  • Consultancy firms
  • Freelancers
  • Retail businesses

Other Abu Dhabi Free Zones

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ADGM

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ICAD

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