KEZAD - Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi
Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi
Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD) is one of the largest integrated economic zones in the region, offering cost-effective licenses for trading, logistics, industrial, and service activities. With competitive operational costs, strong infrastructure, and seamless connectivity, KEZAD has become a preferred destination for global investors establishing businesses in the UAE.
Strategically connected to Khalifa Port—one of the region’s most advanced deep-sea ports and the first semi-automated container terminal—KEZAD provides direct access to international trade routes. Positioned between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, it supports efficient domestic and global logistics operations.
Workstation packages starting from AED 11,000 (with one visa quota) make KEZAD an attractive option for startups and SMEs. The zone operates under a transparent regulatory framework with an open investment climate, competitive labor costs, and easy access to markets across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
KEZAD uniquely offers both Free Zone and Non-Free Zone company formation options within Abu Dhabi. Investors can establish single-shareholder or multi-shareholder companies and choose from land plots, pre-built warehouses, and fully furnished office facilities.
Types of Licenses Issued by KEZAD
- Service License – Covers consulting, management, marketing, and other professional services.
- Trading / General Trading License – Permits import, export, storage, distribution, and warehousing activities.
- Industrial License – Authorizes manufacturing, processing, assembly, and packaging operations.
Company Formation Benefits in KEZAD Abu Dhabi
Businesses operating in KEZAD benefit from customs exemptions and no export tax advantages, including:
- Joint venture projects
- Imported raw materials
- Imported production machinery and equipment
- Goods manufactured in the UAE and exported to GCC countries
KEZAD Packages
KEZAD has Work station Packages & Warehouse Packages
A. Work Station Packages
KEZAD offers flexible workstation solutions tailored to startups and SMEs. Investors can select from multiple visa quotas and permitted business activities.
With ready infrastructure such as serviced land plots, warehouses, office units, and workstations, KEZAD enables companies to scale efficiently. Its proximity to Khalifa Port makes it particularly suitable for trading and logistics businesses.
KEZAD Business License Cost – 1 year, 2 Year & 3 Year Business License Packages
| License Package with Visa Quota | 1-year License Fee (in AED) | 2-year License Fee (in AED) | 3-year License Fee (in AED) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Visa Package | 9,350 | 17,600 | 22,275 |
| 2 Visa Package | 11,050 | 20,800 | 26,325 |
| 3 Visa Package | 12,750 | 24,000 | 28,688 |
| 4 Visa Package | 14,450 | 27,200 | 32,513 |
The above company formation packages in KEZAD are included the followings:
- Preapproval fees
- Registration & license fees are exempted by Abu Dhabi Government for 2 years
- Annual workstation lease
- Establishment Card fees
KEZAD Business License Cost – 1 year, 2 Year & 3 Year Business License Packages
| Description | Fee ( in AED) |
|---|---|
| E Channels registration: | AED 2,186.05 (1 time payment) |
| Entry permit: | AED 736.05 |
| Change status: | AED 1,386.50 |
| Emirates ID: | AED 425.00 |
| Medical Test | AED 263.00 |
| Visa Stamping | AED 2336 |
B. Minimum Warehouse Packages
| DESCRIPTION | FEE IN AED |
|---|---|
| 380 Warehouse – Eligible up to 15 Visas, Registration, License, Facility and Immigration Card | AED 139,650 |
| Security Deposit (3 months of the annual rent- refundable) | AED 33,250 |
Required Documents for Company Formation
- Passport-size photograph (white background)
- Color passport copy
- Current UAE visa copy (Visit or Residence)
- Arabic NOC from current sponsor (for UAE residents)
- Attested and Arabic-translated educational certificate (for consultancy/investment activities)
- Completed application form
KEZAD Dual License System
KEZAD offers a unique Dual License System allowing Free Zone companies to obtain an additional mainland license from Abu Dhabi’s Department of Economic Development (DED) without requiring a local sponsor or Local Service Agent.
Key advantages:
- No need for a separate mainland office
- No requirement for a UAE local sponsor
- Access to both Free Zone and mainland markets
- Annual renewal of Free Zone license prior to mainland license renewal
Note: Dual licenses are not available for foreign company branches.
KEZAD provides one of the most competitive licensing packages in the UAE, supported by world-class infrastructure and port connectivity. Investors seeking structured company formation and ongoing compliance support can work with authorized registered agents to ensure a seamless setup process.