If you want to start a business in the UAE, you might have heard of KEZAD, which is abbreviated as Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi. It has fast become one of the hottest spots for companies wanting to set up in the region over the past few years. From a startup to a global corporation, more businesses are emerging in KEZAD due to its great location, modern infrastructure, and favourable policies toward investors.
This guide will provide insights about the KEZAD business setup process, step-by-step and the type of industries your business can explore.
What is KEZAD?
KEZAD is a huge integrated trade, logistics, and industrial hub developed by Abu Dhabi Ports. This fabulous hub stretches over 550 square kilometres of area adjacent to Khalifa Port, which is one of the world’s most advanced deep-water ports.
This facility has been purposely designed to cater to numerous industries. These include direct access to the major shipping routes; the air cargo terminals and highway networks, wondering if KEZAD is the ideal site for both local and international businesses.
Key Sectors in KEZAD:
- Manufacturing and industrial
- Logistics and distribution
- Food and beverage
- Life Science
- Automotive
- E-commerce and tech
- Renewable energy
What makes KEZAD unique is its ability to connect businesses to global trade routes while offering cost-effective solutions compared to other major UAE free zones.
Why Set Up a Business in KEZAD?
The multitude of reasons why businesses choose KEZAD over other free zone and mainland options include:
100% Foreign Ownership
You may fully own your business without a local sponsor or partner.
Strategic Location
KEZAD is positioned near Khalifa Port and key highways of the UAE, making it effortlessly connected not just inside the GCC, but beyond.
World-Class Infrastructure
Ready-to-move-in workplaces, warehouses, and industrial lands are all present; furthermore, the facilities can be customized to the demands of the business.
Flexible Setup Options
From the much sought-after flexi-desk to a large-scale manufacturing unit, everything in between can be easily accessed at KEZAD.
Competitive Pricing
Mostly set-up costs, rental rates, and expenses of operations are lower than what you will find in other zones in Dubai or other big cities. All in all, a KEZAD business setup offers scope for growth without making a hole in your pocket.
KEZAD Business Setup Process
Setting up a company in KEZAD is relatively simple. Here’s how the process typically works:
Step 1: Define Your Business Activity
Decide whether you’re offering services, trading goods, manufacturing products, or handling logistics. KEZAD supports a wide variety of activities.
Step 2: Choose a Legal Structure
You can register as a:
- Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)
- Branch of an existing UAE or foreign company
- Sole establishment (in specific cases)
Step 3: Register Your Trade Name
Select and have approved a unique name for your business that conforms to the naming rules of KEZAD.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Attach all required documents (e.g., shareholder passports, business plan if needed, and proof of address).
Step 5: Receive License Approval
Your trade license would have been processed and issued as soon as the application was reviewed and approved.
Step 6: Open a Business Bank Account
You open your corporate bank account with one of the banks in the UAE once you have obtained your license.
KEZAD License Types
Choosing the right license is an important step in the KEZAD setup process for business. The main license types include:
Trading License
For companies that import, export, distribute, or sell goods.
Service License
For businesses offering professional or consultancy services.
Industrial License
For manufacturing, assembling, or processing goods.
Logistics License
The provision for trade logistics services and storage.
If you are unsure of the license that your business should get, why not hire a business startup expert who can run this by you and advise you accordingly?
KEZAD Business Setup Cost
KEZAD offers competitive pricing compared to many other UAE zones. Here’s a general breakdown of expected costs:
- License Fees: Normally between AED 10,000 and AED 15,000 annually
- Visa Fees: Around AED 3,500 to AED 5,000 per person or investor
- Office or Warehouse Rental: Tends to be around AED 15,000 for shared desks, to the volume of larger warehouses and areas
- Additional Approvals: Additional approvals may depend on your trade activity requirements (food, manufacturing, etc).
The final figure would rely on the specific requirements relating to your business, but overall, KEZAD is more liberal of the two, two-particularly in industrial and logistic operations.
Why Work with Arnifi for Your KEZAD Business Setup?
Though company registration in KEZAD is streamlined, it becomes time-consuming to do the paperwork, approvals, and banking by oneself. At Arnifi, we help businesses like yours get set up in KEZAD quickly and easily.
What We Offer:
- Expert guidance on choosing the right license and structure
- Full documentation support from start to finish
- Professional help to open up your business bank account
- Customized industry packages- startups, SMEs, large enterprises
- Single-window arrangement for a seamless, hassle-free experience
For years in the formation of UAE companies, Arnifi has removed all the guesswork for you regarding the setup in KEZAD.
Conclusion
KEZAD was created, among other reasons, to provide a business-friendly environment in the UAE, offering full ownership of business and an excellent infrastructure due to its strategic location and low setup costs.
There are many reasons as to why, and most of all, whether you are a small business looking to grow or a multinational setting foot into the waters of this region for the first time, KEZAD is the operating infrastructure that will ensure you reach the success summit.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Arnifi today to begin your KEZAD business setup journey with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What documents are required to set up a business in KEZAD?
You’ll typically need:
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- Trade name reservation
- Business plan (for some activities)
- Proof of address (like a utility bill)
Q2. How long does it take to set up a business in KEZAD?
On average, it takes between 5 and 10 working days, depending on the business activity and documentation.
Q3. Can foreigners fully own a company in KEZAD?
Yes. KEZAD allows 100% foreign ownership across most business activities.
Q4. Is KEZAD only for large companies?
No. KEZAD offers flexible solutions for startups, SMEs, and large corporations alike. Shared offices, flexi-desks, and affordable warehouses make it accessible for businesses of all sizes.
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