Abu Dhabi Free Zones

Home / Business Setup / Free Zones In The UAE / Abu Dhabi Free Zones

Abu Dhabi Free Zones: Your Business Setup Playbook

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, has been creating a vibrant ecosystem for businesses in its extremely well planned freezones. These help lure foreign investment and give a boost to innovation and other industries with tax exemptions, 100% foreign ownership, and simplified company formation.Let us look deeper and explore the process, costs, types of activities allowed, particularly for KIZAD and ADGM free zones.

Abu Dhabi free zones are the ideal place for new entrepreneurs and established companies looking to expand into the UAE. Benefits include. Due to such benefits, Abu Dhabi free zones attract businesses from diverse sectors, including logistics, trading, manufacturing, finance, technology, etc.

Top Reasons to Choose Abu Dhabi Free Zones for Your Business​

  • Foreign Ownership

    A freezone company can be owned 100% by foreigners.

  • Tax Advantages

    No personal income tax.

  • Ease of Setup

    Simple registration and licensing process.

  • Customs Exemptions

    No customs duties on imports and exports within the free zones

  • Strategic Location

    Easy access to major ports and very close to worldwide markets.

Key Free Zones in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi free zones are the ideal place for new entrepreneurs and established companies looking to expand into the UAE.

  • Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD)

    Focuses on logistics, manufacturing, and industrial-oriented operations. A fully integrated logistics hub on the doorstep of Khalifa Port, connecting you to the world. Provides scalable infrastructure with economical options.

  • Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)

    Located on Al Maryah Island, it is an international financial center. Offers a regulatory framework in line with global financial practices. Specializes in financial services, fintech, and professional service

Types of Activities Permitted in Abu Dhabi Free Zones

There are various types of Free Zones in Abu Dhabi for different industries. Common activities include
Trade
Importing, exporting, and re-exporting goods.
Manufacturing
The process of producing and assembling products.
Logistics
Warehousing, distribution, supply chain services.
Financial Services
Banking, insurance and investment activities (For ADGM)
Media and Tech
Content production, software development, and IT services.
Consultancy
Management consultancy, legal consultancy, and marketing consultancy.
Depending on the goals, every freezone may impose limitations or specializations. KIZAD, for example, is geared towards industrial and logistics activity; ADGM is aimed at financial and professional services. Maryanne Advisors can facilitate the selection of the Best Abu Dhabi Free Zone as required by your business.

Start Smart: The Business Setup Journey in Abu Dhabi Free Zones

Cost of forming a company depends on the freezone, license type and office space. Approximate costs include

  • Trade License

    AED 10,000 – AED 25,000 per annum

  • Office Space

    AED 5,000 – AED 50,000 per year based on the size and location.

  • Cost of Registration

    AED 5,000 – AED 15,000

  • Visa Fees

    3,000 - 5,000 per visa.

KIZAD has competitive pricing, with licenses starting from AED 9,000 a year, while ADGM is likely to be more expensive given its high-end location and bespoke offerings

Requirements for KIZAD Freezone

Dubai is an international center for trade, tourism, and expat residing, attracting many foreign workers and residents every year. Bringing family along is often a priority for expatriates based in Dubai. The UAE government provides Resident or Family Visas for the provision in this regard so that family members of residents can get permanent residence in Dubai. In this guide we will cover the cost, major requirements and some things to consider when using family visas in Dubai.

  • Business Activities

    Logistics, manufacturing, and industrial services.

  • Documentation

    Passport copies of shareholders and managers. Proof of address (e.g., utility bills). Business plan.

  • Facilities

    Flexible lease options, including warehouses, industrial units, and offices.

  • Additional Requirements

    Initial approval for industrial activities and environmental permits for certain activities.

Requirements For ADGM Freezone

Type of Business: Financial services, fintech, and professional consultancy.

Documentation

  • Certified copies of incorporation docs (if applicable).

  • Details of shareholders and directors.

  • Proof of funds or financial statements.

Facilities

  • High-end offices at Al Maryah Island.

Additional Requirements

Adherence to ADGM regulatory framework and Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) approval for financial activities ADGM is a magnet for financial and professional firms due to its international reputation and strong governance standards.

Abu Dhabi’s free zones offer unmatched and unparalleled opportunities for businesses seeking to establish themselves in the UAE. Whether you are looking for industrial facilities at KIZAD or a robust financial ecosystem at ADGM, Abu Dhabi provides the infrastructure, regulatory support, and cost-effective options to help your business thrive.By understanding the setup process, costs, and specific requirements, you can make informed decisions and take advantage of the benefits these freezones offer.

Eligibility and Key Requirements for Family Sponsorship

The following are the requirements that the sponsor must meet in order to sponsor family members:

  • Minimum Salary Requirement

    The sponsor should hold a minimum salary of AED 4,000 with accommodation.For sponsoring parents, a higher salary (around AED 20,000 or more) is often required.

  • Valid Residence Visa

    The sponsor needs to have a residence visa (as used for employment, investment, or freelance), and which has to be valid for the UAE.

  • Proof of Relationship

    Legal documents such as marriage certificates (for spouses) or birth certificates (for children) are required. These documents must be attested by UAE Embassy of the home country where the document was issued and by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dubai

  • Accommodation and Medical Insurance

    Proof of residence or accommodation must be provided .Ejari or rental contract is accepted as for the sponsor is accepted as proof.In Dubai, it is mandatory for dependents to have good health insurance coverage.

  • Medical Fitness Test

    All dependents 18 and older must undergo a medical fitness test, which includes screening for infectious diseases like tuberculosis and HIV.

Contact Maryanne Advisors

for expert guidance on company formation in Abu Dhabi free zones.

Send MessageSend Message