Key Facts about setting a company in Dubai Free Zone

Setup from

5,555 AED

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Registration from

5 DAYS

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Bank Account

GUARANTEED

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Residence Visas for

2 YEARS

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) is a strategic mega-industrial and logistics zone developed to support the UAE’s vision of economic diversification. Located adjacent to the deep-water Khalifa Port and connected to key regional and global trade routes, KIZAD provides a world-class platform for manufacturing, logistics, trade, and industrial innovation. Businesses benefit from streamlined processes, flexible space options, and competitive operating costs in a pro-investment environment.

Ideal For

Large-scale manufacturers and industrial enterprises
Logistics and freight forwarding companies
Warehousing and storage providers
Import/export businesses
E-commerce fulfillment centers
Industrial park developers

Key Benefits

Unlock significant cost savings, strategic access, and operational advantages by choosing KIZAD as your industrial base.

Direct access to Khalifa Port for efficient import/export
100% foreign ownership with full capital and profit repatriation
Competitive lease rates and utility tariffs
Multimodal connectivity (sea, air, road, rail)
Custom-built and pre-built industrial facilities available
No restrictions on capital movement
Fast and simplified business setup procedures
Proximity to Abu Dhabi International Airport and Etihad Rail network

Licensing Options to Choose From

KIZAD offers flexible license types that support a variety of industrial, commercial, and service-oriented business activities.

Industrial License: For manufacturing, assembly, and production activities
Trading License: For import/export and distribution of goods
Logistics License: For freight forwarding, warehousing, and supply chain services
Service License: For consultancy, maintenance, and support services

Dual License: Operate both in the Free Zone and the mainland (with DED approval)

We handle it all – so you don’t have to.

Setup Process in KIZAD

1. Define Your Business Activity and Legal Structure

Choose the type of license you need: Industrial, Trading, Logistics, Service, or Dual License

Select your legal structure (e.g., FZ-LLC, branch of a foreign company, or individual establishment)

2. Reserve Your Trade Name

Submit your proposed company name for approval through KIZAD’s registration portal

3. Submit Initial Application and Business Plan

Apply for initial approval by submitting key details about your business model, ownership, and operations

Industrial projects may require additional information on manufacturing processes and environmental impact

4. Select and Lease Facilities

Choose from pre-built warehouses, industrial units, plots of land, or Flexi-desk offices (for light operations)

Sign a lease agreement directly with KIZAD for the selected facility

5. Finalize Company Registration and License Issuance

Submit your final application along with all legal and personal documents. Pay the license and registration fees to receive your business license

6. Apply for Visas and Begin Operations

Once licensed, you can apply for your Establishment Card and UAE residence visas for investors and employees

Begin operations after regulatory inspections (if applicable)

Key Documents Required-

For all company types:

Passport copies of all shareholders, directors, and managers
Proof of residential address (e.g., recent utility bill or bank statement)
UAE entry visa or residence visa (if applicable)
Passport-sized photographs
Business plan or operational outline
Trade name reservation certificate
Lease agreement from KIZAD

For branch companies:

Certificate of Incorporation of parent company
Parent company’s MOA/AOA
Board resolution authorizing branch setup in KIZAD
Power of attorney for the authorized representative
Valid trade license from the parent jurisdiction

For industrial or custom-built facilities:

Environmental impact assessment (if applicable)
Layout plans and facility drawings
Utilities requirement specifications

Tips for Smooth Setup

Define your exact operational needs before choosing a license — this affects facility type and approvals
Consider the Dual License if you want to operate both within the Free Zone and the Abu Dhabi mainland
KIZAD offers large, scalable plots and warehousing — ideal for logistics, manufacturing, and storage
Use KIZAD’s Flexi-desk option if you need a low-cost, minimal presence setup
Engage early with a business setup consultant or KIZAD advisor to understand land/facility options
Manufacturing or industrial projects may need environmental and civil defense approvals — plan for extra time
Check for any industry-specific regulations tied to import/export, storage, or processing

How MenaHerald Can Help You?

Dubai South is rapidly emerging as a hub for logistics, aviation, and e-commerce; but navigating the setup process can still be overwhelming without the right guidance.

At MenaHerald, we simplify the route for you. Whether you’re a startup, SME, or international investor, our experts: