Holding Company in Khalifa Industrial Zone
Free ZoneFinancial

Holding Company in KIZAD

Starting From

AED 10,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Holding Company

Khalifa Industrial Zone has earned its reputation as a leading free zone for financial businesses, offering a streamlined setup process and competitive cost structure.

Operating from Khalifa Industrial Zone gives your Holding Company business access to Abu Dhabi's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as office, warehouse, industrial plot and excellent connectivity. The Holding Company 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 holding company 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 Holding Company?

Choosing KIZAD for your holding company 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 holding company 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 holding company professionals. Furthermore, purpose-built for manufacturing positions your holding company 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 financial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

Industrial powerhouse
Adjacent to Khalifa Port
Massive land availability
Purpose-built for manufacturing
Competitive infrastructure costs

Requirements & Documents

1Completed application form for trade licence
2Signed application form from KIZAD authority
3Passport-sized photographs with white background
4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
8Detailed business plan or activity description

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee10,000
Visa Package (per visa)4,000
Office12,000
Warehouse25,000
Industrial Plot50,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 26,000

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

Setup Timeline

1

Initial Consultation

Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your holding company business objectives, optimal licence structure, and KIZAD as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.

2

Choose Your Company Name

Select your company name and submit it for approval. KIZAD has specific naming guidelines — the name must not conflict with existing registrations and should reflect your business activity. IBA handles the name reservation process.

3

Prepare & Submit Documents

Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. As a non-regulated activity, the documentation requirements are straightforward. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.

4

Obtain Trade Licence

Your KIZAD trade licence is issued within 5 business days of document submission. The licence authorises you to conduct holding company activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 10,000.

5

Apply for Residence Visa

Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Your KIZAD licence includes 6 visa allocation. Each visa costs approximately AED 4,000. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.

6

Open Corporate Bank Account

With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.

7

Start Operations

With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your holding company business in Khalifa Industrial Zone is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.

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 with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for holding company in KIZAD:

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your holding company in KIZAD? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionKIZAD
TypeFree Zone
EmirateAbu Dhabi
License FeeAED 10,000
Setup Time5 days
Visa Quota6
Activity Code64201

Official Source

www.kizad.ae

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

Ready to Start Your Holding Company?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your holding company in KIZAD. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.