Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD)
Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD), formerly KIZAD, is the emirate's flagship trade, logistics and industrial free zone, operated by AD Ports Group next to Khalifa Port. It is built for manufacturing, warehousing, logistics and heavy industry at large scale. AOPA member firms support KEZAD companies with accounting, audit and UAE Corporate Tax compliance.
Overview
Launched in 2022 by AD Ports Group, KEZAD consolidated the former Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) and ZonesCorp specialised economic zones into a single integrated group spanning around 550 sq km, including designated free-zone areas. Located alongside the deep-water Khalifa Port, it offers both free-zone and mainland (non-free-zone) setups, making it one of the largest industrial ecosystems in the region.
Who it suits
KEZAD is designed for manufacturers, processors, logistics and distribution operators, and large industrial investors. Dedicated clusters serve metals and minerals, food and beverage, polymers and chemicals, automotive, pharmaceuticals and logistics. Companies needing warehouses, factories, staff accommodation or long-term industrial land at competitive rates are its core market.
Licences and activities
KEZAD issues industrial, commercial, logistics, trading and service licences, plus general trading. Investors can choose free-zone status for 100% foreign ownership and customs benefits, or a non-free-zone (mainland) setup to trade directly in the UAE market. Land plots, pre-built warehouses and workshop units are available for lease.
Setting up
Steps: (1) select the activity and free-zone or non-free-zone route; (2) reserve the company name and legal form; (3) choose facilities such as a warehouse, plot or office; (4) submit incorporation and KYC documents to KEZAD; (5) receive the licence and lease agreement; (6) complete customs registration, visas and Emirates ID.
Accounting and audit requirements
KEZAD companies must keep proper books, and audited financial statements are commonly required for licence renewal and banking. All entities must register for UAE Corporate Tax with the Federal Tax Authority and assess whether they qualify for the 0% free-zone rate on qualifying income; industrial firms should also review VAT and Economic Substance obligations. AOPA member firms handle KEZAD accounting, audit and Corporate Tax filings.
Frequently asked questions
Is KEZAD the same as KIZAD?
KEZAD (Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi) is the rebranded and expanded group that absorbed the former KIZAD and ZonesCorp zones in 2022. KIZAD is now part of KEZAD.
Can a KEZAD company trade in the UAE mainland?
KEZAD offers both free-zone and non-free-zone (mainland) setups. A non-free-zone licence allows direct trading in the UAE market, while free-zone status offers 100% ownership and customs benefits.
What sectors does KEZAD focus on?
It is primarily industrial and logistics-focused, with clusters for metals and minerals, food and beverage, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, automotive and trade, all next to Khalifa Port.
Do KEZAD companies pay Corporate Tax?
KEZAD entities are within the UAE Corporate Tax regime and may qualify for 0% on qualifying income if free-zone conditions are met. All companies must still register with the Federal Tax Authority. AOPA member firms can advise.