Panoramic view of Dubai’s modern skyline and waterfront, symbolizing industrial growth and business opportunities in DMCC

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD)

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) was built in 2010 as part of Abu Dhabi’s plan to make its economy less reliant on oil. Abu Dhabi Ports and the Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG), one of the best port operators in the world, worked together to make it happen. This partnership brought together local knowledge and global experience to build an industrial hub that is second to none. 

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) is one of the largest industrial zones in the Middle East, covering more than 400 square kilometers. It is located strategically between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The zone is directly connected to Khalifa Port, the best deep-water port in the area. This makes it easy for businesses to get their goods to global markets and have smooth logistics. Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) was built to bring in a wide range of businesses, such as those in the manufacturing, petrochemical, food processing, logistics, and advanced technology sectors. Its growth fits with Abu Dhabi’s larger plan to diversify its economy through the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, which aims to build a sustainable, knowledge-based economy. 

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) is a dynamic gateway for companies looking for growth opportunities in the UAE and beyond. It has a lot of industrial infrastructure, competitive business incentives, and is close to important transportation networks. The zone is always changing, adding new technologies and environmentally friendly practices to help businesses come up with new ideas and protect the environment. 

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Infrastructure

Industrial plots, warehouses, and offices. 

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Tax exemptions

0% corporate and personal tax; no customs duties, subject to conditions specified under corporate tax. 

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facilities

A lot of warehouses, industrial plots, and offices. 

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Port access

Direct access to Khalifa Port. 

Licensing types offered

Positioned as a key part of Abu Dhabi’s industrial strategy, Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) offers world-class infrastructure and seamless global connectivity. It supports a wide range of businesses, from heavy manufacturing to innovative startups.

Let's make your business dream a reality!

How to set up in a Free Zone?

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the company setup process in the UAE.
Follow these six essential steps to get your business up and running smoothly.

Define business activity

Step 1

To start the company setup process, you need to choose your business activity. This could be commercial (trading), professional (services), industrial, tourism, or manufacturing. The selected activity must be approved by the Department of Economic Development (DED).

Reserve trade name

Step 2

Once the business activity is finalized, submit three proposed trade names to the DED for approval. Make sure the names follow the legal guidelines—avoid religious or political references, restricted words, or any previously registered names.

Initial approval

Step 3

Apply for the DED’s initial approval, also known as the No Objection Certificate (NOC). This requires submitting the proposed trade name and activity along with the necessary documentation for review.

Final license issuance

Step 4

After receiving initial approval, submit the final set of documents to the DED. This includes the signed Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement, tenancy contract (Ejari), and any additional approvals if required. Pay the license fee to get your trade license issued.

Immigration & labour setup

Step 5

Register your company with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). This step allows you to apply for partner visas and hire employees legally.

Open corporate bank account

Step 6

Finally, submit your trade license, MOA, and passport copies to your preferred bank in the UAE. This enables you to open a corporate bank account and start operating your business officially.

BYB is your trusted business setup partner

Helping entrepreneurs build and grow in the UAE with complete support, expert guidance, and reliable partnerships.

Expert guidance

From choosing the right jurisdiction to post-setup compliance—we’re with you throughout.

Custom-fit setup solutions

We tailor your company structure to match your industry, goals, and growth plans.

Documentation support

  • No paperwork stress—we handle all approvals, licensing, and formalities on your behalf.

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Fast & reliable execution

We prioritize speed without compromising accuracy, so you can launch sooner.

Dedicated relationship manager

A single point of contact for all your queries, updates, and coordination.

Global entrepreneurs

Businesses across sectors rely on BYB for smooth, strategic setups in the UAE.

Types of companies formation in Khalifa Industrial Zone

Free Zones in UAE offer various options for company formation, depending on the requirement and structure of ownership. The main types are: 

freezone establishment

Free Zone Establishment (FZE)

freezone company

Free Zone Company (FZCO)

branch

Branch of an Existing Company

subsidiary

Subsidiary Company

Documentation required – all business types

Manage all your social channels, ensure customer supremacy engagement, track your performance and more—all from a single platform

Activity list for Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi

JAFZA supports a wide spectrum of business activities, making it an ideal choice for companies targeting regional and global markets. Some of the key activities include:

Trading Activities

Metals & Steel

Logistics & Supply Chain

Technology

Polymers & Plastics

Automotive & Spare Parts

Electronics Equipment

Manufacturing & Assembly

Fast & affordable UAE business setup with BYB

Frequently Asked Questions

KIZAD offers Industrial, Commercial, and Logistics licenses that are specific to different types of business activities. 

Yes, KIZAD lets foreigners own businesses without needing a local partner. 

It usually only takes a few days to register a business and get a license, but this depends on the type of business and the paperwork. 

Yes, businesses in the zone don’t have to pay customs duties on goods that come in and out of the zone. 

Yes, KIZAD has a wide range of industrial plots, warehouses, and office units that can be tailored to meet the needs of each business.

Yes, KIZAD helps investors, employees, and their dependents get residence visas in accordance with UAE immigration laws. 

Yes, most companies in KIZAD must submit audited financial statements to comply with Abu Dhabi’s free zone regulations and UAE tax rules, particularly as a Designated Zone for VAT purposes. Submissions are required for license renewal, and non-compliance may lead to penalties.

Let's make your business dream a reality!

BYB Global

BYB (Build Your Business) is a specialized firm focused on building the foundation for businesses to operate globally. We provide clear guidance and practical support to individuals and companies on how to properly establish their business, follow all rules, and design its structure to begin work in different countries. Our deep knowledge includes how to stay compliant in various nations, selecting the best legal setup, and making smart choices about local business environments. We help get registrations, explain tax requirements, and put in place the basic systems for running an office. BYB is an essential partner for those starting international businesses, making sure they have a solid and rule-abiding base from the very beginning.

Get in Touch

+971505929849

Office Location

1209, The Regal Towers, Business Bay, Dubai, UAE

Working Hours

Monday to Friday

9:00 AM To 6:00 PM – (GST)

Email

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