June 2023 – Page 5 – privatewolf.ae

Masdar City Free Zone: A Comprehensive Guide for Foreign Investors

The Masdar City Free Zone, located in Abu Dhabi, provides an attractive business setup avenue for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), startups, and multinational corporations (MNCs). It is one of the most cost-effective business setup options in Abu Dhabi, paving the way for businesses to prosper in an environment that fosters collaboration with research and knowledge. Masdar City is also renowned as one of the world’s most sustainable urban developments, making it an ideal location for businesses geared towards sustainability and innovation. An Innovation Hub at the Crossroads of Global Markets Masdar City Free Zone fuels innovation in sustainability by fusing education, research and development, investment, and business opportunities. It is strategically situated at the junction of the Middle Eastern and Asian markets, strengthened by a robust global logistics and transport network. Masdar City provides world-class infrastructure, cost-effective business setup packages, excellent connectivity, and an efficient registration process. Moreover, plans to expand the net leasable area are underway, benefiting investors and entrepreneurs. At PW, our business setup consultants in Abu Dhabi can guide you through the process, ensuring you fully reap the benefits offered by the Abu Dhabi Free Zones. Navigating Legal Entity Types in Masdar City Understanding the different types of legal entities recognised by Masdar City Free Zone is essential for foreign investors planning to set up their businesses. The choice of legal structure depends on the number of shareholders and the type of shareholders involved in the company. PW, a team of dedicated business setup consultants in the UAE, can provide guidance in selecting the appropriate legal structure for your business. The following legal entities are recognised in Masdar City Free Zone: Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC) The FZ LLC is a popular legal entity among foreign investors. It requires at least two shareholders, who can be either individuals or corporate entities. Our expert consultants at PW can simplify the process of setting up an FZ LLC company in Masdar City. Branch of a Foreign Company Establishing a branch office in Masdar City Free Zone is a straightforward way for foreign companies to make their presence felt in the Middle Eastern region. The activities of the branch office should match those of the parent company, as they share the same legal identity. Branch of a UAE Company UAE-registered companies can also establish a branch office within the Masdar City Free Zone. These branches are expected to carry out some or all activities of the parent company. PW can guide you through the process of branch company formation seamlessly. Choosing Your Core Business Segment Masdar City Free Zone offers a broad range of business activities, allowing foreign investors to align their business setups according to their core competencies. However, it’s crucial to carefully select the business activity as it directly impacts the business plan. Some popular business segments for which Masdar City accepts license applications include: Business & Leasing Options: The Masdar Advantage Masdar City Free Zone boasts world-class facilities ideal for businesses of all types. Whether you’re a developer, investor, or occupier, the state-of-the-art infrastructure offers diverse options ranging from purchasing or leasing development plots to creating robust office and retail spaces. Office Spaces Tailored to Your Needs Masdar City offers office spaces designed to cater to businesses of all sizes. From flexible desks in shared workspaces to serviced and executive offices and larger core and shell units, you can choose what suits your business needs the best. Plots of Land for Ambitious Projects Developers can buy or lease plots of land in Masdar City to bring their ambitious projects to life. They get an opportunity to construct projects that augment Masdar City’s theme of mixed-use community living, with a primary focus on sustainability. Spaces Built to Suit Your Needs Large organisations can partner with the free zone to develop customised spaces suitable for commercial, retail, residential, recreational, educational, healthcare, and corporate activities. A dedicated team at Masdar City assists in designing and delivering a finished project that aligns with specific business, technical, and financial parameters. Business Setup Packages in Masdar City: Affordability and Flexibility Masdar City Free Zone offers affordable business setup packages suitable for all types of companies. Here is an overview of some cost-effective business setup packages offered: Steps for Business Setup in Masdar City Setting up a business in Masdar City Free Zone is a straightforward process: Unraveling the Benefits of Masdar City Free Zone Investors enjoy several benefits due to the free zone status of Masdar City, including: PW’s team of experts provides a one-stop solution for business setup services in Abu Dhabi, assisting you every step of the way in establishing your business in the Masdar City Free Zone.

Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi: A Premier Hub for Trade, Logistics, and Manufacturing

Established as part of the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, the Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) has quickly become a leading hub for trade, logistics, and manufacturing enterprises. With its strategic location, excellent connectivity, world-class infrastructure, and flexible business incorporation rules, KIZAD offers a multitude of opportunities and benefits to both local and foreign investors. Setting Up Businesses at KIZAD: Strategic Advantages The benefits of establishing businesses in KIZAD are plentiful. As a part of Abu Dhabi, the largest emirate and the capital of the UAE, KIZAD places businesses in an advantageous position. It also offers proximity to Khalifa Port, one of the world’s foremost deep-water seaports, and the upcoming Etihad Rail, a massive boon for transportation logistics. Companies looking to tap into these benefits can expedite the licensing procedures with assistance from business setup consultants like PW. Licensing Types in Khalifa Industrial Zone For smooth and hassle-free company formation, investors need to be aware of the various licenses permitted in KIZAD. The following types of licenses are offered: Industrial License This license enables businesses to engage in a wide range of economic activities, including the import of raw materials, manufacturing, processing, packaging, and the export of finished or intermediate products. PW’s business setup services can expedite the process of obtaining an industrial license. Trading & General Trading License These licenses are for investors interested in trading activities within the free zone. A regular trading license allows trade in a specific number of similar product lines, while a general trading license permits trading across a diverse range of goods. Company Structures in Khalifa Industrial Zone After choosing the appropriate license, entrepreneurs must decide on the suitable legal structure for their proposed company. PW can provide valuable insights and assistance in this process, helping avoid any strategic missteps. Here are the types of companies that can be established in KIZAD: Limited Liability Company (LLC) KIZAD permits investors to establish a Limited Liability Company (LLC). An LLC in KIZAD can be formed by individual or corporate entities, or a combination of both. The Free Zone Authority stipulates a minimum paid-up capital requirement of AED 150,000 or more. Branch Company Companies registered outside of KIZAD can set up a branch office within the free zone. Both local and foreign entities can incorporate a branch company in KIZAD. World-Class Facilities for Businesses in KIZAD KIZAD is equipped with cutting-edge infrastructure and top-tier facilities to accommodate industrial businesses of varying scales. Ready-built Internal Transportation System KIZAD’s robust internal road and network connections within the free zone premises offer easy access to Khalifa Port and main highways. The infrastructure is designed to facilitate future rail connectivity through dedicated rail corridors. Integrated Clustering KIZAD features several industrial clusters that allow for specific industries and service providers to be grouped together, fostering an environment of mutual benefit and value creation. Industrial Innovation KIZAD encourages business growth by providing innovative solutions, such as the Hot Metal Road, which offers a cost-effective and energy-efficient method for transporting molten aluminium. Land for Development on Long-term Lease The meticulously designed industrial park master plan allows businesses of any scale to lease land for development. Benefits of Establishing a Company at KIZAD Investors can enjoy several perks when opening a company at KIZAD, including 100% ownership, access to serviced land plots, modern infrastructure, a dedicated rail network, investor support, and access to pre-built warehouses and offices.

Twofour54 Free Zone: Empowering Media and Content Creators

Abu Dhabi’s celebrated free zone, Twofour54, was conceived as a hub for content creators and media-focused enterprises. Its rapid growth and the impressive influx of international investors it has garnered over the years stand testament to its success in realizing this vision. Attracting global players with its forward-thinking regulations, strategic geographic position, and unrivaled business support services, Twofour54 has positioned itself as a magnet for innovation and business growth. A Prime Location for Media Titans The world’s leading media houses, including CNN, Sky News Arabia, Image Nation, Bidaya Media, and Flash Entertainment, have all made Twofour54 their home base. They have been drawn to this dynamic free zone by its adaptable office spaces, cutting-edge production facilities and services, and talent development programs. Furthermore, Twofour54 has become a nurturing environment for start-ups, SMEs, and freelancers who seize the vast opportunities and networking potential the free zone offers. With the added advantage of setting up a company in Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital city and the largest emirate, the appeal of Twofour54 is irrefutable. A Broad Spectrum of Businesses in Twofour54 Free Zone At the heart of Twofour54 is its recognition of a broad range of legal entities, each defined by its specific shareholder structure. The types of businesses that Twofour54 permits are: Free Zone Limited Liability Company Twofour54’s most recognized company structure, the Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC), can be established with between 2 and 50 shareholders. These shareholders can be individuals, corporate entities, or a combination of both. Branch of an Existing Company Twofour54 also supports the expansion of both UAE-based and foreign companies by allowing the formation of branch offices within its premises. The only stipulation is that the branch’s activity aligns with that of the parent company. Freelance Permit For those preferring to work independently, Twofour54 offers a freelance permit, allowing individuals to register in their own name rather than a company’s. This comes with the added benefits of modern Flexi-desk facilities and opportunities to collaborate with like-minded professionals. World-class Facilities that Foster Growth and Innovation Twofour54 is home to facilities that are designed to fuel creativity and innovation through collaboration, mentorship, and networking. These facilities include: State-of-the-art Studios Equipped with high-definition capabilities, Twofour54 boasts seven broadcast-ready studios. They come with amenities such as a production gallery, a cozy green room, and dressing rooms. Soundproofed and fully equipped with lighting rigs, they cater to every production need. Back Lot Spanning 300,000 sqm, the backlot at Twofour54 offers a diverse range of sets and facilities for all types of production. World-Class Edit Suites Twofour54’s state-of-the-art edit suites have earned the title “Post Production House of the Year” multiple times by Digital Studio magazine. They are dedicated to high-end finishing, compositing, and color grading for work up to 4k. Screening Room and Meeting Rooms Twofour54 houses a screening room that offers 16 raked seats, true 4k cinema projection, and Dolby surround sound. Meeting rooms are also available to accommodate anywhere from 5 to 200 people. Other Amenities Beyond being a place to work, Twofour54 offers conveniences such as restaurants, coffee shops, banks, gyms, and efficient public transport. #thelab Twofour54’s #thelab is a creative space where professionals can work, meet, connect, or even just lounge. Wide Array of Business Activities at Twofour54 Free Zone Twofour54 permits an extensive range of business activities, from content production, publication, to other media-related services. This includes advertising, animation, film production, gaming development, graphic design, music production and recording, web design and development, and more. How to Set Up Business in Twofour54 Free Zone The process of establishing a business in Twofour54 involves a straightforward set of steps including the submission of a business form, obtaining approvals for company name & activity, and securing a regulatory signature from the Media Zone Authority, Abu Dhabi. Upon successful completion of these steps, a license is issued. Incentives for Investing in Twofour54 Free Zone Investors who apply for a trade license in Twofour54 enjoy a suite of benefits. These include 100% company ownership, exemption from income tax and corporate tax, no minimum share capital requirement, top-tier production facilities, a strong intellectual property framework, and a prime address in Abu Dhabi. Its strategic location also offers direct access to Middle Eastern markets and is conveniently situated just 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi airport and 50 minutes from Dubai.

Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD): An Integrated Platform for Business

The Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD), operated by ZonesCorp, is a purpose-built and well-coordinated industrial zone that serves as a highly efficient platform for manufacturing and logistics enterprises. Encompassing a vast range of clusters, ICAD presents an optimal environment for both heavy and light industries including, but not limited to, steel, metal, construction materials, logistics, food, and oil & gas. ICAD: Strategic Location and Comprehensive Facilities Located strategically in Abu Dhabi city, ICAD spans a total of 40 square kilometres and boasts an array of industrial clusters in ideal locations. Each cluster within ICAD offers a host of advantages such as cost-effective land plots, superior connectivity through sea, land, and more than 200 air routes from Abu Dhabi and Dubai, amongst other benefits. Moreover, ICAD provides top-notch facilities that meet the highest technical and environmental standards, making it the ideal home for a diverse range of industrial enterprises. For efficient and swift business incorporation, PW business consultants can provide expert guidance and assistance. Diverse Business Sectors in Industrial City of Abu Dhabi ICAD’s landscape is tailored to suit the needs of companies involved in manufacturing and logistics operations. ZonesCorp has permitted a broad spectrum of business activities in ICAD, in line with the requirements of these enterprises. These encompass: Clusters: The Backbone of ICAD ICAD houses five industrial clusters designed to augment the prospects of manufacturing companies operating within the free zone. Each cluster targets different business sectors and industries. For optimal cluster selection, PW business consultants can provide sound advice to investors. World-Class Infrastructure at ICAD ICAD is distinguished by its robust and well-planned infrastructure. This comprises: Setting Up Business in ICAD: The Process Setting up a business in ICAD is a straightforward process for foreign investors. If the necessary documentation is in order, obtaining a license in ICAD won’t be a time-consuming affair. However, consulting with PW business consultants in Abu Dhabi could expedite the company incorporation process. The following steps must be undertaken: Advantages of Operating in ICAD ICAD provides a dynamic industrial ecosystem that fosters synergies, enhances efficiencies, offers value chain benefits, and promotes business growth. The key benefits of setting up a business in ICAD include:

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM): A Beacon of Global Finance in the UAE

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), a prime free-zone financial centre, is strategically situated in the heart of the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi. As a hub for business setup since its establishment in 2015, ADGM boasts an independent regulatory system, acting as a significant attraction for international investors. The Centre has experienced remarkable growth and is now recognised among the top 25 financial centres globally. ADGM facilitates diverse regulated and non-regulated activities, such as banking, Fintech, trusts, foundations, and other special-purpose vehicles. Moreover, ADGM has made a name for itself as a pioneer in introducing the region’s first crypto assets regulation. This progressive step has led other UAE free zones to start offering cryptocurrency licenses, demonstrating the influence of ADGM. Furthermore, ADGM offers an array of benefits, including top-tier facilities, regulations rooted in English common law, and robust data & IP protection laws. Expert business setup consultants like PW can provide comprehensive insights into the ADGM company formation process. Regulatory Pillars of Abu Dhabi Global Market Unlike traditional UAE free zones, the ADGM free zone operates under the supervision of three distinct Authorities: ADGM Registration Authority The Registration Authority is responsible for crucial functions in business setup, such as registration, incorporation, and licensing of companies. As the principal authority that aids foreign investors with all government-related services, it plays a critical role in managing the registration of entities, business names, post-incorporation documents, enforcement of ADGM regulations, company liquidation, and license cancellations in ADGM. Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) The FSRA serves as the primary regulator for financial services businesses in ADGM. Its key mission is to foster a conducive financial service environment while safeguarding such businesses from potential risks. FSRA maintains its regulatory functions through public consultations and engagements on rule introductions and amendments. ADGM Courts ADGM Courts handle dispute resolution involving ADGM entities. Known for their digitalised arbitration approach via a comprehensive e-courts platform, they are the first jurisdiction in the Middle East to apply English Common Law directly. The judges at ADGM Courts are esteemed individuals drawn from globally recognised Common Law jurisdictions. Core Business Sectors within Abu Dhabi Global Market While the ADGM primarily exists as a platform for financial services, it also cultivates an environment conducive for non-financial and retail businesses. The licenses offered by ADGM are designed to cater to a broad spectrum of activities, including non-financial sectors. Among the key activities entrepreneurs can engage in are: World-class Office Spaces in Abu Dhabi Global Market ADGM’s office spaces are designed to accommodate all types of businesses. These spaces come equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and facilities, offering commercial office spaces, flexible office spaces, and business centres, tailored to the needs of investors. The Roadmap to Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Global Market The process of business setup in ADGM is straightforward and swift. However, it is recommended to consult with business setup advisers like PW to streamline the incorporation process. The steps include consultation with business setup advisers, document preparation, application submission, selection of office space, visa processing, and bank account setup. The Perks of Company Formation in Abu Dhabi Global Market ADGM presents a business ecosystem that is both efficient and flexible for investors. With benefits including ease of setup, independent jurisdiction, strategic location, broad range of legal tools, zero corporate or income tax, 100% foreign ownership, and the ability to set up complex structures like foundations and trusts, ADGM stands out as an award-winning financial centre.