Higher Corporation for Specialized Economic Zones (ZonesCorp)
ZonesCorp, Abu Dhabi
Description
Established in 2004 by the Abu Dhabi Government, ZonesCorp is the largest operator of purpose-built economic zones in the United Arab Emirates. It oversees the development and management of specialized economic zones, contributing significantly to Abu Dhabi's industrial and economic diversification.

Emirate | Abu Dhabi |
Website | https://www.adports.ae/industrial-cities-free-zone/zonescorp/ |
Contact Email | info@adports.ae |
Contact Info |
Phone: +971 2 695 2000
Address: P.O. Box 54477, Abu Dhabi, UAE
|
Year Established | 2004 |
License Types | Industrial License |
License Cost | License fees vary based on business activity and facility requirements. |
Formation Cost | Formation costs depend on the chosen license type, facility, and business activity. |
Minimum Capital Requirement | Minimum capital requirements vary depending on the business activity and legal structure. |
Allowed Business Activities | Chemicals, Food and Beverage, Oil and Gas, Textile and Leather Products, Construction Materials, Engineering and Metals, Assembling Products, Wood and Paper Products, Fiberglass and Plastic Products |
Company Legal Structures | General Partnership Company, Limited Partnership, Partnership Limited with Shares, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Private Joint Stock Company, Public Joint Stock Company, Branch, Local Establishment, Joint Venture Company |
Allowed Activities | Manufacturing, Processing, Assembly, Warehousing, Distribution |
Restricted Activities | Activities requiring special approvals from UAE authorities |
Investor Visa Cost | Visa costs vary based on the investor's profile and specific requirements. |
Employee Visa Cost | Visa costs vary based on the employee's role and specific requirements. |
Processing Time (Days) | Processing times vary depending on the business activity and compliance with regulatory requirements. |
Physical Office Required | Yes |
Office Space Options | Industrial Land Plots, Pre-Built Warehouses, Office Spaces |
Office Space Cost | Office space costs vary based on size, location, and facility specifications. |
Virtual Office Available | No |
Bank Account Assistance | Yes |
Bank Account Cost | Assistance is provided; costs may vary depending on the chosen bank. |
Partner Banks | Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), HSBC |
Governing Laws | Operates under UAE federal laws and Abu Dhabi regulations. |
VAT Registration Required | Yes |
Corporate Tax Applicable | No |
Annual Audit Required | Yes |
Renewal Fees | Renewal fees vary depending on the type of license and business activity. |
Business Restrictions | Specific activities may require additional approvals. |
Ownership Structure | Up to 100% foreign ownership, depending on the business activity and legal structure. |
Import/Export Restrictions | No Standard customs regulations apply; specific activities may require additional approvals. |
Benefits | Strategic location with access to major transport networks, World-class infrastructure and facilities, Proximity to Abu Dhabi and Jebel Ali airports, Cluster-based zoning model allowing full integration within the industry value chain, Access to skilled labor and support services |
Drawbacks | Potentially higher setup and operational costs compared to other industrial zones |
Specific Compliance Requirements | Compliance with environmental and safety standards, Adherence to UAE labor laws and regulations |