KEZAD Free Zone License | Investor Essentials

Need to set up operations in the fast-growing industrial zones of Abu Dhabi? Holding a KEZAD Free Zone License opens the gates of advanced logistics infrastructure, modern facilities, and 100% foreign ownership. Continue reading to check out the type of licenses, benefits, cost, step-wise procedures, and how Arnifi can make your KEZAD journey easier.

1. Introduction

The process of establishing in Abu Dhabi as a strategic industrial centre across the UAE is centred upon the KEZAD Free Zone License. KEZAD will occupy 550 sq km, offering modern infrastructure, easy access to logistics, and competitive incentives for investors. Businesses operating in KEZAD have access to unmatched national and international connectivity through Khalifa Port, Abu Dhabi International Airport and a network of highways.

For the investors in KEZAD Free Zone License, more than a mere permit, it stands as an opportunity to tap into the industrial and logistic ecosystem of Abu Dhabi. Companies enjoy simplified licensing, 100% foreign ownership, and modern premises built for manufacturing, trading, and service operations.

2. What is a KEZAD Free Zone License?

A KEZAD Free Zone License is an official authorization allowing companies to legally operate within KEZAD’s jurisdiction. Unlike a mainland or traditional industrial license, it provides full foreign ownership, simplified setup procedures, and operational flexibility. An investor can set up a manufacturing unit, a trading establishment, service providers, or an e-commerce setup under one license.

Your company, through the license, enters into a fully integrated logistical-industrial ecosystem, reducing operational bottlenecks and providing a smooth passage to local and international markets. KEZAD free zone license is more concerned with the investors concerning manufacturing, logistics, and large-scale industrial activities than any other free zone in the UAE. Efficiency coupled with scalability and strategic advantage is the winning recipe of the KEZAD Free Zone License in attracting global investors.

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3. Types of KEZAD Free Zone Licenses

The KEZAD Free Zone License is categorized into four main categories, depending on the specific business activity it is intended for:

• Industrial License: Manufacturing products, processing and assembly of products. It is applied to automotive, electronics, machinery, etc
• Trading/Commercial License: Covers import, export, distribution, and re-export activities. Suitable for wholesale and distribution businesses
• Service License: For companies offering consultancy, logistics, IT solutions, or business support services
• E-commerce License: For digital businesses, online retail, and cross-border e-commerce operators
  

Each type of license aligns with KEZAD’s infrastructure and industrial focus; e-commerce companies benefit from being near transport hubs, and industrial companies receive warehouses and ready-to-move manufacturing spaces. 

4. Benefits of Getting a KEZAD Free Zone License

A KEZAD Free Zone License offers multiple advantages:

• 100% foreign ownership without requiring a local partner
• Full Remittance of Capital and Profits – boosting investor security
• Zero corporate and personal income tax, making it a cost-efficient base for operations
• Strategic logistics links: port, airport, road and rail
• Modern infrastructure: warehouses, offices, industrial Premises (ready to move)
• Access to the international market through Abu Dhabi’s global agreements and hubs
  

These benefits make KEZAD an ideal choice for investors seeking operational efficiency and growth in the UAE’s industrial landscape.

5. Costs of KEZAD Free Zone License

Item	Estimated Cost (AED)
License Issuance	9,450 – 25,000
Office / Warehouse Lease	Varies by size; refer to KEZAD tariffs
Visa Package (Investor & Staff)	3,000 – 5,000 per visa
Optional Services (Banking, Admin)	Contact Arnifi for details

Prices vary depending on the type of license, your chosen facilities and whether or not you need a visa. Investors will also benefit from bundled services and KEZAD incentives, including waivers on registration fees for two years. Arnifi gives a clear cost estimate and direction to enable investors to budget.

To help with global business expansion
make sure you choose us.

Get in touch with our team to find out about our approach

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6. Step-by-Step Process to Get a KEZAD Free Zone License

• Select Business Activity & License Type: Determine the most suitable license based on business model
• Reserve Trade Name: Submit applications through KEZAD authorities
• Prepare & Submit Documents: Include shareholder passports, MOA, and office/warehouse agreements
• Lease Facility: Choose an office, warehouse, or land space appropriate to business operations
• Get an Approval & Obtain License: Get your KEZAD Free Zone License and start your business

Arnifi assists throughout each step, from document preparation to approvals, ensuring a seamless setup.

7. KEZAD Free Zone License vs Other UAE Free Zone Licenses

Aspect	KEZAD	JAFZA (Dubai)	RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah)	IFZA (Fujairah)
Ownership	100% foreign	100% foreign	100% foreign	100% foreign
Infrastructure	Advanced for logistics & industry	Strong shipping/logistics	Smaller scale, budget-friendly	Best for services & startups
Costs	Higher setup costs	Balanced	Lower costs	Very affordable
Ideal For	Industrial/logistics investors	Large logistics operations	SMEs seeking value	Service providers/startups

This comparison helps investors choose based on industry focus, budget, and scale.

8. Pros and Cons of KEZAD Free Zone License

Pros:

• Investor-friendly policies tailored for global businesses
• Strong manufacturing and logistics infrastructure
• Abu Dhabi’s economic incentives encourage long-term growth

Cons:

• Higher initial setup costs compared to smaller free zones
• Less optimal for purely service-based businesses due to sector focus
  

9. How Arnifi Can Help?

Arnifi simplifies acquiring a KEZAD Free Zone License by:

• Recommending the best license type based on business needs
• Handling paperwork and approvals end-to-end
• Help with visas, compliance and banking stuff
• Offering cost estimation and consultancy for strategic setup

Investors benefit from a streamlined process, minimal delays, and expert guidance throughout.

10. FAQs

Q1. How much does a KEZAD free zone license cost?
The charge begins at AED 9,450 (based on the license and package)

Q2. Can foreigners own 100% of a KEZAD company?
Yes, all license types allow full foreign ownership.

Q3. How long does the KEZAD license process take?
Typically, a few days if all documentation is accurate and complete.

Q4. What is the difference between a KEZAD free zone license and an industrial license?
A KEZAD Free Zone License refers to jurisdiction, and an industrial license specifies permitted activities like manufacturing, production, and distribution.

11. Conclusion

KEZAD group is a fully integrated group with economic cities in the UAE free zones, providing operations, staff accommodation, and industrial real estate solutions. The major motive of the business setup in KEZAD is to drive the global trade through an integrated portfolio with the world-class ports.

The group is eager to incorporate more industries like Automotive, food processing, life sciences, manufacturing and more. Get guidance from our experts at Arnifi to process it fast, safely, securely, and sustainably.