Abu Dhabi · UAE Free Zone
Industrial City of Abu Dhabi
The Industrial Hub of the Capital
Zone at a glance
Relative rating across UAE free zones, scored out of five.
Overview
About ICAD
Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD) is a major industrial free zone and manufacturing hub located in Abu Dhabi, designed to support heavy industries, manufacturing, and logistics operations. ICAD offers world-class infrastructure, strategic location, and comprehensive industrial facilities to attract local and international businesses in the manufacturing and industrial sectors.
Location & Connectivity
Nearest Airport
Abu Dhabi International Airport
45 kilometers away
Address
Industrial City of Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Total Area
418 square kilometers
Nearby Landmarks
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Sectors
Key Industries
Ideal For
Licensing
License Types & Costs
Industrial License
For manufacturing and industrial activities including production, processing, and assembly operations
Activities Allowed
Manufacturing, processing, assembly, industrial production
Commercial License
For trading activities, import/export, and commercial operations within the industrial sector
Activities Allowed
Trading, import/export, commercial activities, distribution
Service License
For service-based activities supporting industrial operations including logistics and technical services
Activities Allowed
Logistics services, technical services, maintenance, consulting
Processing Time
7-14 working days
Annual Renewal
15,000 - 25,000 AED depending on license type
Validity
1 year, renewable
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Residency
Visa Information
Available for shareholders, directors, managers, and employees of licensed companies
Unlimited based on business needs
Industrial Facility
1 visa per 500 sq ft
Office Space
1 visa per 1000 sq ft
Warehouse
Investment
Estimated Costs
Costs vary based on industrial facility size, license type, and specific business requirements. Additional costs may apply for specialized industrial infrastructure.
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Assessment
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Comprehensive industrial infrastructure and facilities
- Strategic location with access to Khalifa Port
- 100% foreign ownership allowed
- Unlimited visa quotas for industrial operations
- Strong government support for industrial development
- Excellent logistics and transportation connectivity
- Specialized zones for different industrial sectors
- Access to skilled workforce and training programs
Considerations
- Higher setup costs compared to commercial free zones
- Limited to industrial and manufacturing activities
- Longer setup time for complex industrial projects
- Distance from Abu Dhabi city center
- Requires significant initial investment for industrial facilities
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Advantages
Why Choose ICAD?
Best For
- Manufacturing Companies
- Heavy Industries
- Export Businesses
- Industrial Operations
- Large Scale Production
Not Ideal For
- Service Companies
- Small Startups
- IT Companies
- Financial Services
- Retail Businesses
Other Abu Dhabi Free Zones
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