What documents does an Italian national need to start a construction business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Italy passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Italy, attested documents via Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Prefettura, and a business plan for your construction venture.

How long does it take for an Italian citizen to set up a construction company in KIZAD?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 5–8 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 15–25 business days.

How much does it cost to set up a Construction business in Khalifa Industrial Zone?

The total setup cost for a Construction business in KIZAD starts from approximately AED 10,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 4,000 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

How long does it take to get a Construction licence in KIZAD?

The typical processing time for a construction licence at KIZAD is 5 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring Dubai Municipality approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

What business activities can I include on my KIZAD licence?

Your KIZAD licence can include construction as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Most free zones allow multiple activities on a single licence, though some may charge a small fee for additional activities. IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

Can I get a residence visa with my Construction licence from KIZAD?

Yes, your construction licence from KIZAD entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 6 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 4,000.

Is Khalifa Industrial Zone good for construction start-ups?

KIZAD is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering industrial powerhouse and adjacent to khalifa port. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 12,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

Construction in Khalifa Industrial Zone for Italian nationals

Free ZoneConstructionRegulated Activity

Construction in KIZAD

Starting From

AED 10,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Construction

As an Italian national looking to establish a Construction business in Khalifa Industrial Zone, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Italy has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Italian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Abu Dhabi's commercial laws, your Construction business will benefit from industrial powerhouse and adjacent to khalifa port. The KIZAD licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 10,000.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your construction setup in KIZAD. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why KIZAD for Construction?

There are several compelling reasons why Khalifa Industrial Zone continues to attract construction entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers industrial powerhouse, which is particularly valuable for construction operations. Additionally, adjacent to khalifa port ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 12,000 per year for a office, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 6 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Massive land availability further enhances the appeal of KIZAD for construction professionals. Furthermore, purpose-built for manufacturing positions your construction business for long-term success in the region. With Abu Dhabi continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, KIZAD remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established construction enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Italian nationals specifically, the Abu Dhabi government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Italian business community.

Industrial powerhouse

Adjacent to Khalifa Port

Massive land availability

Purpose-built for manufacturing

Competitive infrastructure costs

Visa Requirements for Italian Nationals

For Italian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Italian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your construction business in KIZAD.

Banking for Italian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your construction company in KIZAD: Italian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. EU banking standards are recognised by UAE banks. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Italian business structures.

Document Attestation for Italian Nationals

Document attestation for Italian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Italy, (2) Attestation by Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Prefettura, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to construction businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Italy passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Prefettura

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

5Passport-sized photographs with white background

6Signed application form from KIZAD authority

7Detailed business plan or activity description

8Relevant industry experience documentation

Regulatory Note: Construction is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Dubai Municipality is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	10,000
Visa Package (per visa)	4,000
Office	12,000
Warehouse	25,000
Industrial Plot	50,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 26,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your construction business plan and the best KIZAD licence options for Italian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Italy through Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Prefettura and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the construction licence application to KIZAD. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official KIZAD trade licence within 5–8 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Italian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Italian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

Start Operations

Your construction business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. KIZAD allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Italian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Construction in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750