ZonesCorp Abu Dhabi is one of the UAE’s largest and most advanced industrial development initiatives, created to drive growth in manufacturing and logistics. Now operating under the KEZAD Group, it covers over 50 square kilometers of developed land across ICAD I–V and the industrial city of Abu Dhabi. With more than 600 companies already operating within its ecosystem, ZonesCorp is a hub for industries such as food processing, heavy engineering, and advanced manufacturing.

For entrepreneurs, foreign investors, and SMEs, ZonesCorp offers unmatched advantages,modern infrastructure, cost-efficient land, and access to skilled labor. If you’re planning to establish a business in kizad Abu Dhabi or ZonesCorp,  Riz & Mona Consultancy provides expert company formation services, ensuring quick approvals, compliance, and long-term operational success.

Key Benefits of Setting Up in ZonesCorp Abu Dhabi

Strategic Location

100% Foreign Ownership

Affordable Leasing

Business Network

Government Support

Worker Housing

Easy Setup

Tax Exemption

Rules and Regulations for Business Operations in ZonesCorp Abu Dhabi

Industrial Licensing and Scope of Activities

All businesses require prior ZonesCorp licensing and must operate within scope.

Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) Compliance

Mandatory EHS permits, safety measures, and regular audits ensure compliance.

Labor Laws and Employment Regulations

UAE labor laws apply; visa, wage, and health rules enforced via one-stop center.

Corporate Governance and Reporting Obligations

Companies must maintain records, submit audits, and renew licenses annually.

UAE Legal Framework and Construction Codes

UAE laws and permits apply; follow municipal, civil, and safety codes.

Intellectual Property and Cybersecurity Compliance

UAE IP, cybersecurity, and data protection standards must be followed.

Customs, Import, and Export Rules

Duty-free for internal use; exports allowed under UAE trade agreements.

Business License Types in Abu Dhabi ZonesCorp

Industrial License

The core license for manufacturing, assembly, packaging, or processing. It allows raw material imports, industrial equipment use, and sales both domestically and internationally.

Logistics or Warehousing License

For storing, distributing, or managing goods. Includes 3PL providers, inventory managers, and regional hubs.

Service or Commercial License

Issued on a case-by-case basis for services supporting the industrial ecosystem, such as technical training or machinery maintenance.

Branch License

For local or foreign companies opening a new facility in ZonesCorp. No separate capital is required but full licensing still applies.

Business Activities in Abu Dhabi ZonesCorp

  • Manufacturing & Processing – Steel, aluminum, chemicals, petrochemicals, plastics, fiberglass, textiles, leather goods, woodwork, furniture, paper products, and food & beverage.

  • Assembly Operations – Electronics, appliances, machinery, automotive parts, and packaging units.

  • Construction Materials – Cement, glass, ceramics, insulation, precast concrete, pipes, and tiles.

  • Oil & Gas Support – Fabrication of oilfield equipment, pipelines, petrochemical processing, and storage systems.

  • Engineering & Metal Works – Machining, metal fabrication, general engineering, and automotive components.

  • Logistics & Warehousing – Freight consolidation, 3PL services, cold storage, and distribution hubs.

  • Automotive Services – Assembly, maintenance, and aftermarket services, especially within Rahayel Automotive City.

  • Support Services – Technical training, safety inspection, industrial maintenance, and specialized consulting.

  • Ancillary Commercial Activities – Industrial trading outlets and service providers directly supporting manufacturing operations.

Step-by-Step Business Setup Process in ZonesCorp Free Zone

Setting up a company in ZonesCorp (under Abu Dhabi’s Higher Corporation for Specialized Economic Zones, now part of KEZAD Group) is a simple process designed to support industrial and logistics investors. The setup is facilitated through a one-stop government service center, enabling coordination with all relevant authorities. Below are the key steps involved:
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Select Business Activity and Legal Structure

Begin by identifying your business activity—such as manufacturing, logistics, or support services—as this determines your license type (typically an Industrial License).
You must also choose a suitable legal structure, such as:

Only activities aligned with ZonesCorp’s industrial mandate will be approved.

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Name Reservation and Initial Approval

Reserve a unique trade name for your business through the zone authority. Simultaneously, apply for initial activity approval, which confirms that your proposed operations are permissible within ZonesCorp.

This step ensures that your company aligns with zoning, sector focus, and infrastructure availability.

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Submit Application and Documents

Prepare and submit the company registration application along with the following:

  • Trade name reservation certificate

  • Initial activity approval letter

  • Shareholder passport copies

  • General Manager’s CV and passport

  • Facility lease agreement

  • Capital confirmation (minimum AED 250,000 for LLCs)

All documentation must comply with ZonesCorp’s business setup standards.

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Secure Lease for Land or Facility

You must sign a lease agreement for your physical space in one of ZonesCorp’s industrial areas (e.g., ICAD I–V, Al Ain Industrial City). This lease is a mandatory prerequisite for license issuance.
Options include:

  • Long-term land plots (for factories, logistics yards)

  • Ready-built warehouses or light industrial units

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Obtain Industrial License

After document verification and payment of applicable fees, ZonesCorp will issue your Industrial License, allowing your company to legally operate within the zone.
The licensing process is generally efficient, with 2–4 week turnaround times.

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Apply for Residency Visas and Work Permits

Once licensed, your company can sponsor residency visas for owners and employees. ZonesCorp’s integrated service center coordinates directly with:

  • Immigration Authority

  • Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE)

Labor cards and work permits are typically issued within 24–48 hours, depending on case complexity.

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Open Bank Account and Maintain Compliance

With your license and establishment card in hand, proceed to open a corporate bank account. You’ll also need to establish internal systems for accounting, payroll, and reporting.

Ongoing compliance includes:

  • Annual license renewals

  • Financial audits (if required)

  • Quarterly or periodic reports to ZonesCorp

  • Adherence to labor and EHS regulations

Staying in good standing with the zone authority ensures smooth renewals and eligibility for expansion or incentives.

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ZonesCorp Business Setup Costs

Cost Component Details
License & Registration Fees AED 10,000–20,000/year for Industrial License; ~AED 5,000 one-time registration. Special license types may cost more.
Share Capital Requirement AED 250,000 minimum; not paid as a fee but must be declared via bank letter or incorporation documents.
Industrial Land Lease AED 28–30/m²/year. Example: 10,000 m² = AED 280,000–300,000/year. Lease terms: 25–30 years.
Facility Rentals Pre-built warehouses/offices available. Rent varies by size/spec; typically tens of thousands AED/year.
Utilities & Connection Fees One-time connection fees may apply. Consumption billed per Abu Dhabi tariffs. Deposits may be required.
Visa & Government Services ~AED 3,000 per visa (includes medical, Emirates ID). Additional fees for establishment and labor cards.
Notarization & Legal Fees Legalization of MOA, notarization, and translation may cost several thousand dirhams.
Bank Guarantee / Insurance Formerly required bank guarantee per employee now replaced by insurance in most cases.
Maintenance & Community Fees E.g., AED 3/m²/year maintenance levy for land plots (e.g., in KEZAD).
Customs & Logistics Customs duty exempt, but clearance agents and zone service fees may apply.
Professional Services Consultants or agents charge setup fees depending on scope. Add to initial budget.

Comparative Analysis: ZonesCorp vs KIZAD

Parameter ZonesCorp (Abu Dhabi) KIZAD (Abu Dhabi)
Ease of Setup Streamlined setup with 2–4 week processing via one-stop service center. Improving digital setup via AD Ports; moderate processing time.
Cost (Setup & Operation) AED 10k–20k license; AED 250k capital; land ~AED 28/m²/year. Similar costs; AED 150k capital; land ~AED 28–30/m²; startup incentives available.
Industry Focus Heavy industry, manufacturing, food, automotive, logistics. Port-based manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, metals, polymers.
Regulatory Environment UAE law applies; no separate judiciary; EHS and industry rules enforced. Same as ZonesCorp; falls under KEZAD with UAE law and KEZAD-specific regulations.
Strategic Advantages AD Ports-backed; mature industrial clusters; skilled labor; proximity to Abu Dhabi city. Direct access to Khalifa Port; mega industrial plots; strong logistics infrastructure.

Challenges and Key Considerations When Setting Up in ZonesCorp

High Capital Requirement:

A minimum share capital of AED 250,000 is required for Free Zone LLCs, which is higher than in many other UAE free zones.

Strict Industrial Focus:

ZonesCorp is designed exclusively for manufacturing, logistics, and industrial services—non-industrial businesses are generally not permitted.

Facility Lease is Mandatory:

Companies must secure a lease for industrial land or a facility before obtaining a license, requiring early commitment to infrastructure.

Complex Construction & EHS Compliance:

All physical developments must comply with Abu Dhabi’s environmental, health, and safety codes, along with civil defense and municipal approvals.
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ZonesCorp Abu Dhabi Business Setup Consultants

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 ZonesCorp Abu Dhabi Business Setup, 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)

What is the minimum required share capital for company formation in ZonesCorp?

The minimum required share capital for an LLC in ZonesCorp is AED 250,000, which must be confirmed through bank documentation, but not paid as a fee.
ZonesCorp primarily supports industrial, manufacturing, and logistics businesses; non-industrial activities are generally not permitted.
Companies in ZonesCorp can engage in both domestic and international trade, though selling directly to the UAE mainland incurs a 5% customs duty.
There are no additional setup costs specifically for foreign investors, though the minimum capital requirement of AED 250,000 still applies.
To expand or change business activities, companies must apply for approval or an amendment to their license from ZonesCorp authorities.