Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD)
2010
600+
KPT
Physical Address
Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi, Taweelah, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
About Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD)
An integrated trade, logistics, and industrial hub with direct access to Khalifa Port, offering scalable infrastructure and seamless connectivity for global and regional businesses
About Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi
Established as Abu Dhabi’s flagship industrial development, Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) represents a comprehensive approach to industrial infrastructure that prioritizes operational scale, logistics integration, and manufacturing excellence for enterprises seeking to establish production facilities with global reach and supply chain efficiency. Developed as a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification strategy, KIZAD was conceptualized as an integrated environment where industrial production, logistics operations, and global trade are seamlessly connected through purpose-built infrastructure and strategic port integration. The operational model follows an industrial cluster approach focused on vertical integration and supply chain optimization—creating a distinctive framework where manufacturing efficiency, logistics connectivity, and operational scale form the core value proposition for industrial enterprises across diverse sectors and production requirements.
What distinguishes KIZAD from other industrial zones is its emphasis on integrated industrial ecosystems that maximize operational synergies while maintaining full production efficiency. The zone’s approach includes specialized industrial clusters, purpose-built infrastructure, and comprehensive business solutions—with particular attention to sector-specific requirements, supply chain integration, and logistics optimization that support diverse manufacturing operations across multiple industries. This industrial foundation is complemented by a business-friendly regulatory framework designed to facilitate production operations, with streamlined processes for facility establishment, industrial licensing, and operational compliance that address the essential requirements of organizations seeking an efficient pathway to manufacturing presence in a strategic location with global reach.
Integrated Industrial Ecosystem
KIZAD has developed into a comprehensive ecosystem that supports a wide spectrum of industrial operations—from heavy manufacturing and process industries to light industrial production, logistics operations, and trade-focused businesses. This integrated approach creates a dynamic environment where industrial enterprises at various scales of operation can establish production facilities, develop supply chain networks, and build global distribution capabilities with appropriate levels of infrastructure support and operational integration. The zone’s specialization extends to both industrial focus and operational scale—accommodating diverse activities across metals, polymers, food processing, logistics, pharmaceuticals, and various manufacturing sectors with tailored solutions that align with specific production requirements and strategic objectives in today’s global industrial landscape.
The zone’s ecosystem emphasizes industrial excellence through a combination of specialized infrastructure, logistics connectivity, and operational efficiency. This approach creates a production-oriented environment where companies can focus on core manufacturing activities while benefiting from integrated supply chains and efficient distribution frameworks supported by multimodal transportation networks and port connectivity. Supporting this core approach is a comprehensive service platform including industrial licensing, facility development, logistics coordination, and business facilitation that enhances the operational capabilities of manufacturing enterprises within the ecosystem through integrated methodologies and global market access.
Available License Types
Choose from a comprehensive range of specialized business licenses designed to support various commercial activities in the KPT free zone
Commercial
General trading and business activities
Construction
Construction and infrastructure services
Holding Company
Investment and holding activities
Industrial
Manufacturing and production
Service
Support and service industries
Trading
Import / export and commodity tradingEach license type has specific approvals and requirements to suit different types of businesses. Our experts will help you choose the most appropriate license for your business operations.
Why Choose KPT for Your Business
Discover the unique advantages that make Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) a leading free zone for international business and strategic growth opportunities
Integrated Port Access
Direct operational integration with Khalifa Port providing immediate access to advanced container terminal facilities, bulk cargo handling, break-bulk operations, and global shipping networks that enhance logistics efficiency and international market reach for manufacturing operations.
Massive Industrial Scale
Exceptional development scale spanning 410 square kilometers with diverse industrial zones, specialized clusters, and extensive land availability that accommodates large-scale manufacturing operations, industrial complexes, and production facilities with long-term expansion potential.
Multimodal Transportation Network
Comprehensive transportation infrastructure including seaport integration, highway connections, planned rail links, and proximity to international airports creating unparalleled logistics capabilities for efficient movement of raw materials, components, and finished products.
Vertically Integrated Clusters
Specialized industrial zones organized around vertical integration principles where complementary industries, supply chain partners, and related operations are strategically co-located to maximize operational synergies and manufacturing efficiencies.
Industrial-Grade Infrastructure
Purpose-built infrastructure designed specifically for industrial operations including heavy-duty roads, reinforced development plots, industrial-grade utilities, specialized service corridors, and technical specifications that support manufacturing requirements.
Advanced Utility Systems
Comprehensive utility networks providing industrial-grade power supply, process water, natural gas, telecommunications, and specialized utility services with capacity and reliability designed specifically for manufacturing operations and production facilities.
Logistics Optimization
Strategic positioning within an integrated logistics network that minimizes transportation costs, reduces handling requirements, optimizes supply chain operations, and enhances distribution efficiency for both import and export activities.
Customs-Bonded Zone
Operations within a customs-bonded environment providing specialized advantages for international trade including duty deferment, tax exemptions on imports for re-export, and simplified customs procedures for global manufacturing and distribution operations.
100% Foreign Ownership
Complete ownership of your industrial enterprise without local partner requirements, giving international manufacturers full control over strategic direction, operational management, and business development within a globally-oriented industrial environment.
Long-Term Land Leases
Secure land tenure through long-term Musataha agreements extending up to 50 years (renewable) providing operational stability, investment security, and development certainty for capital-intensive industrial projects requiring substantial infrastructure.
Modular Growth Options
Flexible development frameworks that accommodate phased expansion, modular growth, and scalable operations allowing industrial enterprises to align facility development with business growth, market demand, and capital availability.
Specialized Industrial Zones
Purpose-designed industrial areas with specific infrastructure, technical specifications, and operational parameters optimized for particular industries including metals, polymers, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and logistics operations.
Worker Accommodation
Access to purpose-built worker residential facilities in close proximity to industrial zones, providing quality accommodation for production staff, technical personnel, and support workers with comprehensive amenities and transportation connections.
Environmental Compliance Support
Specialized infrastructure and technical support for environmental management including waste handling facilities, emissions control systems, and environmental compliance frameworks that facilitate regulatory adherence for industrial operations.
Strategic Abu Dhabi Location
Advantageous positioning within Abu Dhabi's industrial development corridor with excellent accessibility to key markets, major transportation networks, and essential business facilities, providing strategic advantages for manufacturing operations with global reach.Ready to Join the World's Leading Trading Hub?
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Setup Process
A streamlined 34-step process to establish your commodity trading business in the Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD)
Industrial Consultation
1-2 days
Engage with KIZAD industrial development specialists to discuss your manufacturing objectives, production requirements, and facility needs. This comprehensive consultation addresses how your organization can leverage the industrial infrastructure and identifies the optimal approach for your specific manufacturing operations.
Industrial Feasibility Assessment
5-10 days
Conduct a preliminary feasibility assessment of your proposed industrial operation to ensure alignment with KIZAD's infrastructure capabilities, utility availability, and environmental parameters, identifying any specialized requirements or technical considerations.
Site Visit & Zone Tour
1 day
Visit KIZAD industrial zones to assess available locations, evaluate infrastructure, understand logistics connections, and identify the optimal positioning for your specific industrial operation within the various specialized clusters.
License Category Selection
2-3 days
Determine the most appropriate license category based on your specific industrial activities, manufacturing focus, and operational objectives, ensuring proper regulatory alignment for your production operations.
Company Name Reservation
3-5 days
Submit your proposed company name for approval and reservation. Names are evaluated for compliance with naming conventions and to prevent confusion with existing organizations in the UAE registry.
Industrial Business Plan Development
15-30 days
Prepare a comprehensive industrial business plan detailing your manufacturing strategy, production processes, facility requirements, equipment specifications, utility needs, logistics requirements, and growth projections specific to your KIZAD operations.
Land/Facility Requirements Specification
10-15 days
Develop detailed specifications for your industrial facility including land area requirements, building specifications, utility demands, infrastructure needs, and specialized features necessary for your manufacturing processes.
Environmental Compliance Planning
10-20 days
Develop preliminary environmental management plans addressing emissions control, waste management, resource efficiency, and compliance with environmental regulations applicable to your specific industrial activities.
Initial Application Submission
3-5 days
Complete and submit the preliminary application forms with company information, shareholder details, and proposed industrial activities to initiate the formal review process with KIZAD Authority.
Technical Review Meeting
1-2 days
Participate in technical review sessions with KIZAD specialists to evaluate your industrial processes, production requirements, facility specifications, and operational parameters for feasibility and compliance assessment.
Document Submission
5-10 days
Submit required documentation including corporate documents, shareholder information, industrial specifications, technical requirements, and operational details through the KIZAD application portal.
Application Review
15-30 days
Your complete application undergoes comprehensive review by KIZAD authorities who evaluate industrial viability, technical feasibility, infrastructure requirements, and alignment with the zone's industrial development strategy.
Preliminary Approval
5-10 days
Receive preliminary approval for your industrial project in KIZAD, confirming eligibility to proceed with detailed planning and facility development for your specific manufacturing activities.
Musataha Agreement/Lease Negotiation
10-20 days
Negotiate and finalize the land lease (Musataha) agreement or pre-built facility lease specifying terms, conditions, development requirements, and operational parameters for your industrial premises.
Capital Commitment Confirmation
5-10 days
Provide documentation confirming the commitment of required capital for your industrial project, meeting the investment requirements for your specific manufacturing operation and facility development.
Fee Payment
1-2 days
Pay the required fees including registration fee, license fee, land reservation fee, and other applicable charges through the designated payment channels.
Musataha/Lease Agreement Signing
1-2 days
Formally execute the Musataha agreement for industrial land or lease agreement for pre-built facilities, establishing the legal framework for your industrial premises in KIZAD.
License Issuance
5-10 days
Receive your KIZAD industrial license, officially authorizing your company to operate within the industrial zone for specified manufacturing activities and operational functions.
Detailed Design Development
30-60 days
For land plots - develop detailed architectural and engineering designs for your industrial facility including building plans, production layouts, utility systems, and technical specifications in accordance with KIZAD building regulations.
Design Approval
15-30 days
For land plots - submit facility designs for review and approval by KIZAD planning department and relevant authorities to ensure compliance with building codes, safety standards, and industrial regulations.
Construction Permitting
15-30 days
For land plots - obtain necessary construction permits, building approvals, and development authorizations from relevant authorities to commence facility construction.
Facility Construction/Preparation
180-365 days
For land plots - undertake construction of your industrial facility according to approved designs and specifications. For pre-built facilities - prepare the premises for your specific operational requirements and equipment installation.
Utility Connections
30-60 days
Establish connections to essential utilities including electricity, water, natural gas, telecommunications, and other required services according to your operational specifications and consumption requirements.
Equipment Installation
30-90 days
Install manufacturing equipment, production machinery, industrial systems, and specialized tools required for your operations according to your production layout and technical specifications.
Customs Registration
10-15 days
Complete customs registration procedures to facilitate import of equipment, raw materials, and components as well as export of finished products through Khalifa Port and other entry/exit points.
Environmental Compliance Certification
15-30 days
Obtain necessary environmental permits, compliance certifications, and operational approvals from environmental authorities based on your specific industrial activities and environmental impact.
Health & Safety Compliance
15-30 days
Implement required health and safety systems, emergency procedures, and workplace safety measures in compliance with industrial safety regulations and KIZAD requirements.
Operational Readiness Inspection
5-10 days
Undergo facility inspection and operational readiness assessment by relevant authorities to verify compliance with building codes, safety standards, environmental requirements, and industrial regulations.
Immigration Card Issuance
5-10 days
Obtain your establishment immigration card, enabling your company to sponsor visas for executives, technical specialists, production staff, and support personnel according to your allocation.
Staff Visa Processing
15-30 days
Begin processing employment visas for your management team, technical specialists, production workers, and support personnel according to your visa allocation and operational requirements.
Bank Account Opening
15-30 days
Open corporate bank accounts with local or international banks operating in Abu Dhabi, facilitating financial operations for your industrial business including operational funding, transaction processing, and expense management.
Production Testing
15-30 days
Conduct trial production runs, system testing, equipment calibration, and operational verification to ensure all manufacturing processes and industrial systems function according to specifications.
Operational Certification
10-20 days
Obtain final operational certificates, production approvals, and manufacturing authorizations from relevant regulatory authorities specific to your industrial sector and production activities.
Commencement of Operations
5-10 days
Launch your industrial operations, manufacturing activities, and production processes following completion of all setup requirements, regulatory approvals, and operational certifications.
Total Timeline
2-4 weeks typical setup
Documentation
Comprehensive support provided
Expert Guidance
End-to-end assistance
Eligibility Requirements & Documentation
Comprehensive requirements and documentation needed for establishing your free zone business
Required Documents
Passport copies
Color copies of passport with minimum 6 months validity for all shareholders, directors, and key personnel. Digital scans must be high-resolution and clearly show all passport details and biometric information.
UAE visa copies
For existing UAE residents - copies of current residence visa with sponsor information clearly indicated and validity dates visible.
Emirates ID
For existing UAE residents - clear copies of Emirates ID (front and back) with all information legible and expiry dates visible.
Passport-size photographs
Recent passport-size photographs with white background (6 copies). Photos must be professional quality, showing full face with neutral expression and meeting international ID photo standards.
Industrial business plan
Comprehensive business plan outlining your industrial strategy, manufacturing approach, production processes, operational framework, and growth projections specific to your activities in KIZAD, with particular attention to your production methodology and industrial requirements.
Permitted Activities
Manufacturing Operations
Establishment and operation of production facilities, manufacturing plants, industrial processing units, and fabrication operations for various products, components, and materials
Heavy Industry
Operation of large-scale industrial facilities, processing plants, production complexes, and manufacturing operations requiring substantial infrastructure, specialized utilities, and industrial-grade support systems
Light Manufacturing
Production of consumer goods, finished products, specialized items, and manufactured components through assembly operations, processing activities, and production processes of moderate scale and intensity
Metals Processing
Processing, fabrication, treatment, and manufacturing of metal products, components, structures, and specialized items through various metallurgical and production techniques
Polymer Production
Manufacturing, processing, and production of plastic products, polymer materials, synthetic compounds, and related items through various chemical and industrial processes
Restricted Activities
Amenities Available in This Free Zone
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Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi, Taweelah, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates