Abu Dhabi Free Zone is a prime destination for businesses looking to establish operations in the UAE. As the largest emirate, it boasts several notable free zones that offer economic stability, tax benefits, and simplified regulations. These zones are governed by dedicated authorities responsible for maintaining regulations and issuing licenses. Abu Dhabi’s strong healthcare policies and reputation for luxury further enhance its appeal, making it an attractive location for entrepreneurs and tourists alike. The free zones offer a range of advantages, including:

• 100% Foreign Ownership
• Business-Friendly Legal Framework
• Easy Incorporation
• No Personal, Low Corporate, or No Income Taxes
• Access to a Pool of Skilled Professionals
• 100% Repatriation of Profits

YUGA Accounting & Tax Consultancy brings years of expertise in assisting investors with the business setup process. We manage everything from licensing to visas, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

Select Your Business License Type

Abu Dhabi’s free zones provide various business licenses. Here are some of the common types of licenses available to you:

1) Industrial License 

Permits businesses to undertake manufacturing, processing, assembly, and related industrial activities within the free zone.

2) Logistics License 

Designed for companies engaged in logistics, warehousing, transportation, and related activities.

3) Trading License 

Allows businesses to import, export, distribute, and trade goods within the free zone and internationally.

4) Service License 

Enables businesses to provide specific services such as consulting, IT services, marketing, advertising, legal, and financial services.

5) Media License 

Allows companies involved in media production, broadcasting, publishing, advertising, and related activities to operate within the free zone.

6) Renewable Energy License 

Available in free zones with a focus on clean technology and renewable energy, allowing businesses to engage in research, development, manufacturing, and distribution of renewable energy products and services.

7) Aviation License 

Tailored for companies in the aviation industry, including aircraft maintenance, repair, leasing, and related services.

8) Technology License 

For businesses involved in software development, IT consulting, telecommunications, and other technology-related services.

Required Documents and the Steps to Obtain Your Business License

Securing your Free Zone license in Abu Dhabi has been designed to be a pain-free process. Here are the steps you’ll want to take and the documents you’ll need to have available to get your license:

Types of Business Entities Allowed in Abu Dhabi Free Zones

1) UAE Branch

Like a Foreign Branch, a UAE Branch allows mainland companies to extend their operations into Abu Dhabi’s free zones.

2) Free Zone Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A Free Zone LLC is a separate legal entity with limited liability for its shareholders. It allows full foreign ownership and provides flexibility in management and operations.

3) Foreign Branch

A Foreign Branch allows an existing foreign company to establish a presence in Abu Dhabi’s free zones. The branch operates under the parent company’s name and is subject to its regulations.

4) Freelancer

Freelancer licenses are tailored for individuals offering professional services on a freelance basis. It allows individuals to operate as independent contractors within Abu Dhabi’s free zones, offering consulting, design, writing, or other specialized skills.

Free Zones in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi hosts a variety of Free Zone jurisdictions, each tailored to a particular business sector. Some of these Free Zones include:

1) Masdar City Free Zone

Masdar City is a sustainable urban development and clean technology hub in Abu Dhabi. Its free zone focuses on renewable energy, clean technology, and sustainable living.

2) ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market)

The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is a global financial center located on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, with strategic positioning. It is a Free Zone jurisdiction that provides numerous advantages for business investors, such as 100% foreign ownership, no corporate or personal tax, and no forex restrictions.

3) Twofour54 Free Zone

Twofour54 is Abu Dhabi’s media and entertainment Free Zone, dedicated to nurturing creative talent and fostering innovation in the industry.

4) Kizad Free Zone

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) is one of the Middle East’s largest industrial and logistics hubs. Its free zone offers a strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and various incentives to attract manufacturing, logistics, trade, and industrial businesses.