KIZAD Free Zone Registration - Industrial & Manufacturing Hub

About KIZAD

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) is the Middle East's largest industrial zone and one of the world's fastest-growing logistics and manufacturing hubs. Part of the AD Ports Group ecosystem, KIZAD offers comprehensive infrastructure including heavy and light industrial plots, warehouses, logistics facilities, and direct access to Khalifa Port. The zone hosts over 1,000 companies across metals, automotive, petrochemicals, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and aluminum sectors.

License Types Available

Industrial Manufacturing License

For heavy manufacturing, processing, assembly, automotive, petrochemicals, and industrial production.

Logistics & Warehousing License

For freight forwarding, warehousing, distribution, supply chain management, and logistics services.

Trading License

For import/export, general trading, commodity trading, and commercial distribution activities.

Service License

For industrial support services, technical consulting, maintenance, and business services.

Registration Requirements

Passport Copies: Valid passports for all shareholders and general managers (minimum 6 months validity)
Proof of Address: Recent utility bill, bank statement, or tenancy contract for all shareholders
Business Plan: Detailed plan including production capacity, equipment, and operational requirements
Technical Specifications: For manufacturing licenses: machinery list, production processes, and safety compliance
Environmental Permits: Environmental impact assessment for heavy industrial activities (where applicable)

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Site Visit & Consultation

Visit KIZAD facilities and consult with team on suitable plot/warehouse based on business needs

Timeline: 1-3 days

Company Name Reservation

Submit company name for approval through Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development

Timeline: 2-3 days

License Application

Complete application with business activities, technical specifications, and documentation

Timeline: 3-5 business days

Land/Facility Lease

Sign lease agreement for industrial plot, warehouse, or office space

Timeline: 2-5 days

License Issuance

Pay fees and receive trade license from Abu Dhabi DED

Timeline: 2-3 days

Setup & Operations

Process visas, open bank account, obtain permits, and commence operations

Timeline: 4-8 weeks

KIZAD Fee Structure

Description	Amount (AED)
Trade License Fee (Annual)	25,000 - 75,000
Registration Fee (One-time)	10,000
Security Deposit	30,000 (refundable)
Light Industrial Plot (per sqm/year)	25 - 40
Warehouse Lease (per sqm/year)	120 - 180
Visa Processing (per visa)	5,000 - 7,500

* Fees vary based on facility size and type. Heavy industrial plots priced separately.

Annual Compliance Requirements

License Renewal

Annual trade license renewal through Abu Dhabi DED with updated documentation.

Lease Compliance

Maintain valid lease for industrial plot, warehouse, or office space throughout license period.

Financial Audit

Mandatory annual financial statements and audit for industrial and large-scale operations.

Corporate Tax Filing

Annual corporate tax returns required. QFZP status available for qualifying free zone activities.

VAT Compliance

VAT registration mandatory if taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000. Quarterly VAT returns.

Environmental & Safety Compliance

Annual environmental reports, safety inspections, and regulatory compliance for industrial activities.

Tax Implications

QFZP Status Benefits

KIZAD companies may qualify as Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) and enjoy:

0% Corporate Tax on qualifying income from free zone operations
9% Corporate Tax on non-qualifying income (mainland UAE business)
De minimis threshold of 5% or AED 5M for non-qualifying revenue

Learn more about QFZP status

KIZAD - Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi