What documents does an Iranian national need to start a digital marketing business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Iran passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Iran, attested documents via Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and a business plan for your digital marketing venture.

How long does it take for an Iranian citizen to set up a digital marketing 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 Digital Marketing business in Khalifa Industrial Zone?

The total setup cost for a Digital Marketing 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.

What are the tax implications for a Digital Marketing business in Khalifa Industrial Zone?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in KIZAD may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

What business activities can I include on my KIZAD licence?

Your KIZAD licence can include digital marketing 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 open a corporate bank account with my KIZAD Digital Marketing licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from KIZAD, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Digital Marketing business in Khalifa Industrial Zone?

The annual licence renewal for a Digital Marketing KIZAD company costs approximately AED 10,000, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

Digital Marketing in Khalifa Industrial Zone for Iranian nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Digital Marketing in KIZAD

Starting From

AED 10,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Digital Marketing

The UAE continues to attract Iranian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and KIZAD is one of the most popular jurisdictions for digital marketing operations. Historic trading community (~100,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Khalifa Industrial Zone gives your Digital Marketing business access to Abu Dhabi's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as office, warehouse, industrial plot and excellent connectivity. The Digital Marketing activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up digital marketing businesses in Khalifa Industrial Zone since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why KIZAD for Digital Marketing?

Choosing KIZAD for your digital marketing business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers industrial powerhouse, which is particularly valuable for digital marketing 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 digital marketing professionals. Furthermore, purpose-built for manufacturing positions your digital marketing 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 professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Industrial powerhouse

Adjacent to Khalifa Port

Massive land availability

Purpose-built for manufacturing

Competitive infrastructure costs

Visa Requirements for Iranian Nationals

For Iranian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your digital marketing business in KIZAD.

Banking for Iranian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your digital marketing company in KIZAD: Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements. IBA assists with navigating compliance procedures for successful account opening. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Iranian business structures.

Document Attestation for Iranian Nationals

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

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Iran passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

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

5Completed application form for trade licence

6Detailed business plan or activity description

7Signed application form from KIZAD authority

8Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

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 digital marketing business plan and the best KIZAD licence options for Iranian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Iran through Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the digital marketing 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. Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements.

Start Operations

Your digital marketing 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 Iranian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Digital Marketing in Other Jurisdictions

DIC

From AED 15,000

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750

DSO

From AED 12,000