The Ultimate Hub for Airport-Centric Business
Establish your company in Abu Dhabi's premier free zone with direct access to three international airports. Benefit from 100% foreign ownership, a 0% corporate tax qualifying regime, and bespoke facilities for aviation, logistics, and technology leaders.
Foreign Ownership
100%
Integrated Airports
3
Corporate Tax on Qualifying Income
0%
Business Activities
900+
Capital & Profit Repatriation
100%
Your Gateway to Global Markets from the UAE Capital
Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ) is a dynamic business hub integrated with Zayed International, Al Ain International, and Al Bateen Executive Airports. Established to support Abu Dhabi's Economic Vision 2030, ADAFZ offers a one-stop-shop for companies in aviation, aerospace, defense, logistics, e-commerce, and technology seeking unparalleled connectivity and operational excellence.
Jurisdiction Key Facts
- Governing Authority
- Abu Dhabi Airports
- VAT Designated Zone
- Yes, for efficient import/export of goods
- Dual License Option
- Yes, operate in both the free zone and mainland Abu Dhabi
- Annual Audit
- Mandatory for all entities
- Minimum Share Capital
- AED 150,000 (Proof of deposit required)
- Remote Setup
- Yes, incorporation is possible without visiting the UAE
The ADAFZ Advantage: Built for Strategic Growth
Leverage a unique ecosystem designed to optimize your operations and maximize your market reach.
Unrivaled Airport Integration
Gain a critical competitive edge with direct landside and airside access across three key airports for seamless logistics, MRO, and freight operations.
Specialized Industry Clusters
Thrive in a dedicated ecosystem for high-value sectors including aerospace, defense, e-commerce, and pharma, fostering collaboration and strategic growth.
Customized Real Estate Solutions
Choose from a full spectrum of facilities including executive offices, large-scale warehouses, light industrial units, and build-to-suit aircraft hangars.
Strategic Mainland Access
Utilize a unique dual license option to operate seamlessly in both the free zone and the lucrative Abu Dhabi mainland market, maximizing your business potential.
Optimal Tax Environment
Operate within a Qualifying Free Zone, offering eligibility for 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, plus exemptions on import/export duties.
Complete Control and Repatriation
Enjoy 100% foreign ownership without a local partner and benefit from full, unrestricted repatriation of all your capital and profits.
Investment for Airport-Centric Operations
ADAFZ offers premium, scalable packages for well-capitalized businesses ready to leverage world-class infrastructure. A one-time AED 150,000 share capital deposit is required for all company types.
Business Center Package (1 Visa)
Billed annually
- 1 Resident Visa(s)
- Flexi-Desk Facility
- Trade or Service License
- Flexi-Desk Facility
- Establishment Card
- PO Box Services
Executive Office Package
Billed annually
- 0 Resident Visa(s)
- Private Furnished/Unfurnished Office
- Trade, Service or Industrial License
- Private Furnished/Unfurnished Office
- Increased Visa Quota
- Corporate Bank Account Assistance
AED Pricing
Investment for Airport-Centric Operations
ADAFZ offers premium, scalable packages for well-capitalized businesses ready to leverage world-class infrastructure. A one-time AED 150,000 share capital deposit is required for all company types.
Total Estimated Cost (Year 1)
Estimated first-year setup fees derived from landing page content.
AED 151,000
Find the Right License for Your Business
ADAFZ offers a comprehensive range of licenses tailored to specific business activities and structures.
Commercial / Trade License
Industrial / Manufacturing License
Professional Services / Consultancy License
E-commerce License
Popular Business Activities
With over 900 approved activities, ADAFZ caters to a diverse range of high-value industries.
Filter by Category
| Activity Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Logistics, Transportation, Warehousing Distribution & Storage | Logistics / Freight |
| Freight Forwarding | Logistics / Freight |
| Distribution Centers | Logistics / Freight |
| General Trading | Commercial / Trading |
| Import and Export | Commercial / Trading |
| E-commerce | Commercial / Trading |
| Light Manufacturing & Assembly | Industrial / Manufacturing |
| Aerospace & Defense | Industrial / Manufacturing |
| Industrial & Consumer Goods | Industrial / Manufacturing |
| Pharma & Biotechnology | Healthcare / Pharmaceutical |
| Healthcare / Pharmaceutical Activities | Healthcare / Pharmaceutical |
| Cold Storage Solutions | Healthcare / Pharmaceutical |
Streamlined 4-Step Incorporation Process
Our one-stop-shop approach ensures a fast and efficient company setup, getting you operational in record time.
Phase 1 Focus
Initial Approval
Included Technology & Services
Consultation & Document Submission
Submit your application form, passport copies, and business plan. Our team will guide you on the optimal license and legal structure.
Initial Approval
ADAFZ reviews your application and issues an Initial Approval, allowing you to reserve your trade name and proceed with legal formalities.
Registration & Fee Payment
Sign the Memorandum of Association, lease your facility, deposit the share capital, and pay all relevant registration and license fees.
License & Immigration Card Issuance
Receive your official Trade License. We will then process your company's Establishment Card to enable visa applications.
Engineered for Industry Leaders
The Global Logistics Operator
Establishes a strategic hub for Middle East, Africa, and South Asia operations, leveraging direct access to three airports to eliminate costly supply chain delays.
Primary Benefit
Strategic Location & Airport Integration
The E-commerce Fulfilment Pioneer
Utilizes VAT Designated Zone status and direct airport access to streamline customs, reduce cross-border complexity, and ensure rapid last-mile delivery.
Primary Benefit
VAT Designated Zone & Rapid Fulfilment
The Aerospace & Defense Contractor
Secures a high-spec operational base with access to aircraft hangars, MRO facilities, and strategic proximity to Abu Dhabi's government and defense ecosystem.
Primary Benefit
Specialized Airside Facilities
The Multinational Regional HQ
Combines free zone benefits with mainland market access through the unique dual license, offering ultimate operational flexibility from the nation's capital.
Primary Benefit
Dual Licensing for Full Market Access
ADAFZ vs. The Competition
See how ADAFZ provides unique advantages for airport-dependent businesses compared to other leading UAE free zones.
| Feature Highlight | ADAFZ | Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZA) | Dubai South |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Access | Direct integration with 3 airports (International, Executive, Cargo) | Direct integration with Dubai International (DXB) | Direct integration with Al Maktoum International (DWC) |
| Mainland Access | Unique Dual License for Abu Dhabi mainland operations | Requires separate mainland license or distributor | Requires separate mainland license or distributor |
| Core Industry Focus | Aviation, Aerospace, Defense, Logistics, E-commerce | Luxury goods, IT, General Trading, Logistics | Aviation, Logistics, Events, Diversified Industries |
| Location Advantage | Strategic base in the UAE capital, close to government entities | Established hub with high brand recognition | Massive city-scale development hosting major events |
| Best For | Businesses needing multi-airport flexibility and Abu Dhabi market access | Companies targeting DXB's cargo/passenger traffic and Dubai's market | Large-scale logistics and aviation projects needing vast space |
This is a general comparison for informational purposes. For a detailed analysis based on your specific business needs, please contact our advisors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Establish Your Strategic Airport Hub?
Connect with our setup experts today to secure your position at the nexus of global trade and logistics in Abu Dhabi.
- Expert guidance on licensing and activities
- Transparent, all-inclusive proposals
- Confidential consultation