What documents does an American national need to start a mobile app development business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United States, attested documents via US Department of State / Secretary of State, and a business plan for your mobile app development venture.

How long does it take for an American citizen to set up a mobile app development 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.

Can I get a residence visa with my Mobile App Development licence from KIZAD?

Yes, your mobile app development 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.

What documents do I need to set up a Mobile App Development business in KIZAD?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Mobile App Development business in Khalifa Industrial Zone?

The annual licence renewal for a Mobile App Development 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.

What business activities can I include on my KIZAD licence?

Your KIZAD licence can include mobile app development 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.

How long does it take to get a Mobile App Development licence in KIZAD?

The typical processing time for a mobile app development licence at KIZAD is 5 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.

Mobile App Development in Khalifa Industrial Zone for American nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Mobile App Development in KIZAD

Starting From

AED 10,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Mobile App Development

Setting up a Mobile App Development business in Khalifa Industrial Zone as an American citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to United States-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of American business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at KIZAD has been streamlined significantly, with most professional licences processed within 5 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 10,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your mobile app development business in Khalifa Industrial Zone. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why KIZAD for Mobile App Development?

Khalifa Industrial Zone is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for professional businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers industrial powerhouse, which is particularly valuable for mobile app development 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 mobile app development professionals. Furthermore, purpose-built for manufacturing positions your mobile app development 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 American nationals specifically, the Abu Dhabi government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large American business community.

Industrial powerhouse

Adjacent to Khalifa Port

Massive land availability

Purpose-built for manufacturing

Competitive infrastructure costs

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. Once your mobile app development licence is issued by KIZAD, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 10–17 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for American Business Owners

US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. For your mobile app development business in KIZAD, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving American business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United States-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

American nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through US Department of State / Secretary of State. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for mobile app development), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to KIZAD.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by US Department of State / Secretary of State

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Detailed business plan or activity description

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

7Signed application form from KIZAD authority

8Passport-sized photographs with white background

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 mobile app development business plan and the best KIZAD licence options for American nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the mobile app development 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. US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.

Start Operations

Your mobile app development 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 American nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Mobile App Development 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