Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone Business Setup (ADAFZ)

Abu Dhabi is one of the best Emirates in the UAE from an investment point of view. The Emirates accounts for about two-thirds of the UAE economy. To boost business activities, the government of Abu Dhabi has developed various free zones in the region, including the most notable, the Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone.

Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone (ADAFZ) is a thriving business hub strategically located at Abu Dhabi International Airport. It offers a unique environment for businesses to flourish, providing state-of-the-art infrastructure, comprehensive facilities, and a range of benefits that make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and established companies alike.

Because of its strategic location and facilities, the Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone is a sought-after location among investors and entrepreneurs, as it is located in the confines of the Abu Dhabi International Airport.

If you are looking for investment opportunities in the UAE, ADAFZ is a great place to start. Let’s take a look at the process of setting up a business in the Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone and its range of facilities.

Setting up a business in ADAFZ offers a strategic advantage due to its prime location, excellent connectivity, and proximity to major international markets. The free zone is designed to support businesses with its modern infrastructure, flexible office solutions, and seamless integration with Abu Dhabi’s economic ecosystem.

It is spread over an area of around 1 square kilometer and includes five major commercial districts: Logistic Park, Destination Village, Airport City, Business Park, and Al Falah District.

The free zone is home to over 332 global companies. ADAFZ’s commitment to providing the best services has made it a top choice for a wide range of businesses including aviation, trading, logistics, consultancy, management, hospitality, and more.

  • 100% foreign ownership 
  • 0% tax on corporate and personal income
  • Full repatriation of capital and profits
  • Strategic location with global access
  • Simplified business process
  • No VAT
  • 100% import and export exemption
  • Close proximity to the airport
  • 24-hour access to facilities
  • Advanced IT setup
  • Independent regulations
  • Easy access to global markets

Facilities Available in Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone

Development activities at the Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone have been quicker as compared to other free zones in the Emirates. Because of this, you get access to well-established facilities.

  • Office Spaces: Flexible office solutions including fully furnished offices and co-working spaces.
  • Warehousing: High-quality warehouse facilities for storage and distribution.
  • Logistics: Efficient logistics services and easy access to air freight services.
  • Business Centers: Equipped with meeting rooms, conference facilities, and administrative support.
  • Customs and Immigration: Streamlined customs and immigration services to facilitate business operations.
abu dhabi free zone

ADAFZ Authority offers business licenses for various activities. The licensing activities in the free zone broadly fall under the following categories:

  • Trading License: For businesses involved in the import, export, and distribution of goods. It also includes logistics, transportation, storage, etc.
  • Service License: For service-oriented businesses such as aviation, airport services, MRO, consulting, IT services, marketing, and more.
  • Industrial License: For companies engaged in manufacturing, production, and assembly.
  • Freelance License: For individuals offering professional services independently.

ADAFZ supports a wide range of business activities including, but not limited to:

  • Aviation, Aerospace, and Airport Services
  • MRO
  • Logistics and Warehousing
  • Transportation and Distribution
  • Marketing and Event Management
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Information Technology
  • Media and Marketing
  • Consultancy Services
  • Trading
  • E-commerce
  • Retail
  • Hospitality and Food

Types of Business Entities in the Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone

The Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone allows three main types of business entities, as follows:

  • Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC): A company with limited liability and a separate legal entity.
  • Branch of a Foreign Company: An extension of an existing foreign company.
  • Branch of a UAE Company: An extension of an existing UAE-based company.

How to Set Up a Company in Abu Dhabi Free Zone?

Choose a Business Activity

Determine the type of business activity you wish to undertake in the free zone.

Select a License Type

Choose the appropriate license for your company based on your business activity.

Submit Application

Complete and submit the business setup application form. along with the necessary documents, including a business plan, and other relevant paperwork.

Initial Approval and Registration

Get the initial approval from the free zone authority, and register your company after paying the required fee.

Lease Agreement

Sign the lease agreement for office space or warehouse.

Bank Account Opening

Open a corporate bank account and deposit the minimum required capital according to the ADAFZ. 

Receive License

Once all formalities are completed, receive your business license and commence operations.

At Solutions FZCO, we specialize in providing comprehensive business setup services in the Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone. Our team of professionals will guide you through every step of the setup process, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

From choosing the right business activity and license type to handling all administrative and legal requirements, we are committed to helping you establish a successful presence in ADAFZ.

Contact us today to get started on your business journey in Abu Dhabi!

abu dhabi airport free zone

Frequently Asked Questions

In Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone, the minimum capital requirement for companies is just AED 5,000.

The estimated time for business setup in Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone is around 3-4 weeks, depending on your business type.

Yes, having a physical business address is mandatory for ADAFZ company formation. There are various facilities available in the zone that you can lease.