The Simple Guide to Abu Dhabi Free Zones for Company Setup UAE
As an Indian business owner, have you ever dreamt of going global? Or perhaps you are an aspiring entrepreneur, eyeing the limitless possibilities in the entrepreneurial landscape of the UAE. If so, we have some key insights that can steer you in the right direction.
The UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi, is not just an opulent cityscape; it’s a thriving industrial hub, a focal point for economic growth in the Middle East. Mirroring Dubai’s successful strategy, Abu Dhabi has established several free zones to attract foreign investment, fuelling an economic upswing in the region.
But why Abu Dhabi’s free zones, you might ask?
Important reasons you should consider Abu Dhabi Free Zones
- Enjoy the privilege of 100% foreign ownership.
- Operate in a cost-effective environment.
- Experience the freedom to repatriate your capital and profits.
- Stay tax-free with absolute exemption from import, export, corporate, and personal taxes.
- Benefit from comprehensive support services to help with permits, licenses, approvals, clearances, and the acquisition of skilled manpower and accommodation.
To help you gain a deeper understanding and make a wise choice among these free zones, we present a detailed comparison:
| Free Zone | Key Industries | Cost (Relative) | Compliance Procedures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ) | Aviation, Aerospace, Airport Services, Logistics, Cargo, Freight | High | Standard |
| Masdar City Free Zone | Clean Technology, Renewable Energy | Medium | Standard |
| Twofour54 Abu Dhabi | Media, Creative Businesses | Medium | Moderate |
| Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) | Integrated Trade, Logistics, Industrial Operations | Medium | Standard |
| Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD) | Oil and Gas, Engineering, Construction Materials | Low | Standard |
| Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) | Financial Sector | High | High |
Each of these Free Zones is governed by an independent Free Zone Authority (FZA) that issues operating licenses, setting the stage for your dream business.
Let’s delve deeper into each of these Free Zones and their unique advantages:
Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ)
If your business is connected to aviation, aerospace, airport services, logistics, or cargo and freight services, ADAFZ is the place for you. Equipped with commercial offices, plots for development, warehousing units, and logistics services, ADAFZ is optimally designed to cater to the specific needs of businesses in these sectors.
Masdar City Free Zone
Founded in 2006, Masdar City is a model for sustainable urban development. The city is a joint venture between the Abu Dhabi government and the Mubadala Development Company. If your business is involved in clean technology or renewable energy, you’ll find Masdar City to be an inspiring environment. Here, start-ups get a dedicated space to refine, develop, and commercialize their technologies.
Twofour54 Abu Dhabi
Named after the geographical coordinates of Abu Dhabi (24° North, 54° East), Twofour54 is the hub of creative and media businesses in the city. It provides an impressive infrastructure and comprehensive support services for these industries. Major media houses like BBC, CNN, and Financial Times have operations in Twofour54, testifying to its importance as a global media hub.
Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD)
KIZAD is an integrated trade, logistics, and industrial hub. If your business is into manufacturing, logistics, trade, and distribution, this Free Zone, with its customized business facilities, geographical advantages, and low operating costs, could be your gateway to success.
Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD)
ICAD is an industrial economic zone providing support for businesses related to oil and gas, engineering, and construction materials. It is managed by ZonesCorp, the largest operator of purpose-built industrial zones in the UAE.
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
ADGM is an international financial center, making it the ideal free zone for companies in the financial sector. The Registration Authority, the Financial Services Regulatory Authority, and ADGM Courts govern the zone, facilitating companies to operate within an international regulatory framework based on Common Law.
Choosing the right Free Zone for your business depends on your industry, business objectives, and operational requirements. It’s essential to study each Free Zone’s unique offerings, regulatory environment, costs, and support services before making your decision.
Embarking on this journey can seem overwhelming, but fear not! Horizon Biz Consultancy is right by your side, equipped to guide you through every step of setting up your venture in Abu Dhabi’s free zones.
Stay tuned for more insightful content, and do reach out to us expert company setup consultants, Abu Dhabi, UAE at Horizon Biz Consultancy for a 30 minutes’ rich, free and in-depth consultation on +971 50 104 2665 today.