Sectors
LogisticsTradingManufacturing
Advantages
- Located within Abu Dhabi International Airport — prime aviation logistics positioning
- Licence fee exemptions and incentives periodically offered for new businesses
- Supports MRO, aerospace, freight, and aviation-related industries
- Direct airside access for applicable businesses
- 100% foreign ownership with tax exemptions
Trade-offs
- Very high minimum capital for aviation-related core activities (AED 500,000–1,000,000)
- Niche focus on aviation and airport services
- Smaller ecosystem vs. KEZAD or ADGM
Setting up
Setup ease
Aviation and aerospace activities need additional regulatory approvals from GCAA. Standard trading/services are simpler. 14 business days on average.
Opening a bank account
Bank account
Airport-adjacent businesses are accepted by Abu Dhabi banks. Aviation-specific companies may need additional compliance documentation.
Questions
How much does it cost to set up a company in ADAFZ?
Registration AED 7,500; licence AED 15,000–50,000. High min capital for aviation activities (AED 500,000–1,000,000).
What business sectors are supported by ADAFZ?
Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone supports: Logistics, Trading, Manufacturing.
Is it easy to open a bank account with a ADAFZ licence?
Airport-adjacent businesses are accepted by Abu Dhabi banks. Aviation-specific companies may need additional compliance documentation.
Does ADAFZ require a physical office?
Yes, a physical office is required. Physical office or airside facility required.
How many visas can I get through ADAFZ?
Visa quota: Based on facility and office size.