KIZAD Free Zone Abu Dhabi-Overview of the Legal and Operational Framework for Foreign Investors

Analysis

Rana El Husseini assesses the legal and operational framework of the UAE's largest and newest industrial zone, the Khalifa Industrial Zone (KIZAD) located in Abu Dhabi

In brief

  • KIZAD is the Abu Dhabi Ports Company's flagship project which consists of a world class offshore port and integrated industrial zone and serves companies which operate in eight industry clusters.

  • The KIZAD Rules contain detailed criteria for the designation of zones, the infrastructure and utilities, the licensing process and the commencement of operations.

  • The KIZAD Rules Governance Committee may render each developer/investor liable to warnings, fines and sanctions for the relevant offence or any other fines and sanctions reasonably determined by ADPC.

The Abu Dhabi Ports Company PJSC (ADPC) was formed by the Abu Dhabi Government in 2006. ADPC's primary role is to boost economic development by creating the fundamentals of modern infrastructure and business service across Abu Dhabi and developing ports and industrial zones. ADCP is empowered to establish, develop, manage and operate, and issue regulations and instructions in relation to, the Khalifa Port and The Khalifa Industrial Zone (KIZAD).