Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ) is a leading free zone located across Abu Dhabi International Airport, Al Ain International Airport, and Al Bateen Executive Airport, supporting aviation, logistics, and light industrial sectors. Spanning over 12 km², it offers world-class infrastructure, modern offices, warehouses, and land plots for development. Businesses in ADAFZ benefit from 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, capital repatriation, and seamless global connectivity through its strategic airport location.

If you are exploring other opportunities, Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is ideal for financial and professional services, while Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) is a strong hub for trade and manufacturing.

At RIZ & MONA Consultancy , we help investors set up businesses in ADAFZ with complete guidance  from license selection to smooth documentation.

Benefits of Setting Up a Business in Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone

Strategic Location

100% Foreign Ownership

Smart Infrastructure

Business Flexibility

Integrated Airport Access

Quick Setup

Full Capital Repatriation

Tax-Free

Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone License Types

Service License

Covers consultancy, IT services, and marketing services.
License Fee: AED 8,000 annually

Trade Licence

Permits import, export, distribution, and warehousing of goods.
License Fee: AED 8,000 annual

Light Industrial License

Allows light manufacturing, assembly, and packaging activities.
License Fee: AED 8,000 annually

General Trading License

For businesses dealing with a wide range of products.
License Fee: AED 20,000 annually

Permitted Business Activities in Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone

  • Aviation & Aerospace: Activities related to airline operations, aircraft interiors, and airport services.

  • Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO): Services focused on aircraft maintenance, repair, and inspection.

  • Logistics & Trading: Operations involving freight forwarding, warehousing, and goods distribution.

  • Manufacturing & Light Industrial: Activities including light production, assembly, and packaging.

  • Technology & ICT: Services in IT solutions, telecommunications, and software or hardware trading.

  • Consultancy & Services: Professional services in business consultancy, marketing, and management.

  • Knowledge & Development: Establishments offering training, research, and educational programs.

  • Regional Headquarters (HQ): Offices managing regional operations for multinational companies.

Legal Entities Allowed in Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone

FZ-LLC (Corporate Shareholder)

A limited liability company owned by one or more corporate entities. Ideal for existing companies establishing a subsidiary in ADAFZ.

FZ-LLC (Natural Shareholder)

A limited liability company owned by one or more individuals. Best suited for entrepreneurs or partners forming a new business.

Branch of a UAE Company

A registered branch of an existing local or foreign company. It operates under the parent company’s name and shares its legal liability.

Steps to Setting Up a Business in Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone

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Choose Your Business Activity and Legal Structure:

Determine the type of business activity (e.g., trading, services, manufacturing) and select the appropriate legal structure (e.g., FZ-LLC, branch, etc.).

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Reserve Your Trade Name:

Choose and reserve a unique trade name for your business in compliance with ADAFZ regulations.

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Submit the Application and Required Documents:

Prepare and submit the necessary documents, including your business plan, passport copies of shareholders, and application form, to ADAFZ for approval.

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Obtain Initial Approval:

ADAFZ will review your application and issue initial approval, provided all requirements are met.

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Lease Office Space:

Secure and lease an office, warehouse, or flexi-desk within ADAFZ. This is a requirement for company registration.

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Submit Final Documents:

After leasing office space, submit final incorporation documents, including the Memorandum of Association, lease agreement, and shareholder resolutions.

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Obtain License:

Once all documentation is submitted and approved, ADAFZ will issue your trade license, allowing you to officially start operations.

8

Process Visas:

Apply for residency and work visas for employees and shareholders through ADAFZ’s visa processing services.

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Open a Corporate Bank Account:

Open a corporate bank account in the UAE to manage your business finances.

10

Commence Operations:

With your license and visas in hand, you can officially begin business operations within ADAFZ.

Start your Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone business hassle-free today!

Get a Free Consultation

Business Setup Costs in Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone

Category Cost Details
Incorporation Fee AED 5,000–7,500 (for FZ-LLC or Branch Office)
Annual License Fee AED 15,000–50,000 (varies by business activity and office type)
Flexi-Desk AED 10,000–20,000 per year (shared workspace)
Serviced Office (3-person) AED 28,000–90,000 per year (large office, includes utilities, may vary)
Establishment Card AED 834 (one-time issuance)
E-Channel Activation Fee AED 2,270 (standard)
Employment Visa AED 3,000–5,200 per employee (2-year visa)
Visa Deposit AED 2,500 per visa (refundable)

Rules and Regulations in ADAFZ

Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone operates under its own regulations aligned with UAE law, ensuring a compliant and structured business environment.

  • Free Zone Authority:Companies are regulated by the Skycity Free Zone Authority, responsible for licensing and compliance. Businesses must also adhere to federal laws.
  • Company Governance:A Manager must be appointed to represent the company. Businesses must maintain accurate records and update the authority with any changes in management.
  • Office Requirements:Companies must lease an approved facility, such as offices or warehouses, within the free zone. ADAFZ provides infrastructure and utility support.
  • Capital and Financial Compliance:The minimum share capital is AED 150,000, with higher capital for certain sectors. Capital must be demonstrated but not deposited before licensing.
  • Ongoing Compliance:Licenses must be renewed annually. Non-compliance may result in fines, suspension, or revocation of the license.
  • Customs and Trade:ADAFZ is outside the mainland UAE customs territory, allowing duty-free imports, though customs duties apply for goods moved to the mainland.
Rizmona Consultancy 15 Years Experience

Business Setup Consultants in Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone

How Riz & Mona Consultancy Can Help?

Riz & Mona Consultancy is renowned as one of the top business setup consultants in Dubai, with over 15 years of experience facilitating a wide range of businesses throughout the UAE. Our deep connections with government officials and key authorities, combined with our extensive expertise in consultancy, streamline the process of establishing your business in Dubai. Additionally, we offer comprehensive financial, legal, and corporate services to support our clients throughout their business endeavors.

We are here to provide comprehensive support for your Business setup in Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone, from preparing your documents to completing the process. Connect with us now to begin your journey with a FREE consultation!

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Are there any minimum capital requirements for different types of businesses in ADAFZ?

Yes, ADAFZ requires a minimum capital of AED 150,000 for most businesses, with certain sectors like aviation requiring higher capital.
Companies in ADAFZ can operate in the mainland through local distributors or by obtaining a relevant mainland license.
ADAFZ offers flexible office spaces, including shared desks, serviced offices, and larger dedicated units starting at AED 10,000 annually.
Yes, companies can hold multiple licenses, with each license type incurring a separate fee based on the activities conducted.
The setup process in ADAFZ typically takes 2-3 weeks, including registration, documentation, and office lease formalities.