free zone

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.

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 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.

Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone (ADAFZ) stands as a premier business hub in the heart of Abu Dhabi Airports. For foreign investors seeking an advantageous geographical position in terms of connectivity and logistics, ADAFZ presents a golden opportunity. This free zone, wholly owned by Abu Dhabi Airports, was launched to contribute to the Abu Dhabi 2030 Economic Vision, and offers a plethora of business activities, a strategic locale, easy registration procedures, and top-tier facilities. ADAFZ spans over 10.6 Km2 around Abu Dhabi International Airport, enveloping commercial regions such as Logistics Park, Business Park, Destination Village, Al Falah District, and Airport City. Establishing a business in these districts provides a lucrative opportunity for foreign investors to penetrate the Middle Eastern markets. For expedient incorporation, consulting with UAE business setup experts like PW is highly recommended. Recognised Legal Entities in Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone The business setup process in ADAFZ demands every investor to choose the appropriate company structure. Decisions on the legal structure should be based on the number and type of shareholders, which can include natural persons and corporate entities. Depending on these factors, ADAFZ permits the following entities: Free Zone Limited Liability Company (Natural) A Free Zone Limited Liability Company (Natural) can be established in ADAFZ with individual shareholders. This legal structure allows for the inclusion of 2-50 shareholders. Branch of an Existing Company Companies registered outside the free zone can open a branch office in ADAFZ. This includes both UAE-based and foreign companies. Permissible Activities in Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone Investors are expected to meticulously select their business activities before applying for a trade license in ADAFZ. To accurately choose these activities, advice from business setup consultants like PW can be beneficial. The core business activities in ADAFZ cover a wide spectrum: Facilities Available in Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone A trade license in ADAFZ provides access to an impressive array of cost-effective and high-quality facilities, ranging from warehousing units to land for development. These facilities are equipped with essential ancillary amenities to support everyday business operations. Key facilities include: Land Plots for Lease ADAFZ offers plots of land for long-term leases, facilitating investors in setting up bespoke facilities. Ready Warehouse Facilities Ready Warehouse spaces are available in various sizes, with consultants like PW guiding entrepreneurs in selecting the suitable facilities. Office Spaces ADAFZ provides well-built office spaces at Abu Dhabi International, Al Ain International, and Al Bateen Executive Airport at cost-effective price ranges. Business Centre The free zone also maintains a business centre that offers shared workstations or co-working spaces to accommodate immediate business needs. Process of Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone Setting up a business in ADAFZ is a straightforward process, designed with the convenience of investors in mind. Typically, a trade license can be obtained within 14 days. PW can provide support in ensuring compliance with free zone regulations and further speeding up the process. Stage One: Initial Approval This involves obtaining initial approval from the free zone authority and submitting relevant documents. Stage Two: Registration At this stage, registration fees and documents, including completed application for registration, are required. Stage Three: Licensing & Visa Process This is the final stage where investors sign the lease agreement for the selected facility, followed by the issuance of a trade license and initiation of the UAE Residence Visa process. Benefits of Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone Setting up a business in ADAFZ offers numerous benefits to investors: 100% foreign ownership Zero corporate tax Zero personal income tax Zero import or re-export duties No capital repatriation restrictions No restriction on currencies Wide range of business activities & licenses Strategic location in Abu Dhabi All business setup services under one roof Modern facilities and amenities