The Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD) stands as one of the UAE’s most prominent industrial and economic zones. Strategically located near the capital and designed to attract global and regional manufacturing and logistics companies, ICAD plays a vital role in the country’s non-oil economic growth.
With modern infrastructure, connectivity, and business-friendly policies, ICAD is more than just an industrial zone—it’s a catalyst for innovation, job creation, and sustainable industrial development in the UAE.
What Is the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD)?
ICAD is an integrated industrial zone located about 30 kilometers from central Abu Dhabi. It is part of ZonesCorp, which is managed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED).
It provides high-quality infrastructure, utilities, logistics, and real estate options to various industrial sectors.
ICAD Zones Overview
ICAD is divided into three major clusters:
✅ ICAD I
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Focuses on heavy industries such as steel, metal, and engineering
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Large plots for factories and warehouses
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Designed for businesses that require large-scale operations
✅ ICAD II
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Supports light and medium industries
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Suitable for automotive, packaging, electronics, and food production
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Balanced facilities and flexibility for SMEs
✅ ICAD III
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Targeted at high-tech and clean industries
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Green practices and modern infrastructure
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Ideal for tech, pharmaceuticals, and advanced manufacturing companies
Key Features of ICAD
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Total Area: Over 40 square kilometers
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Proximity to Transport: Located near major highways, Abu Dhabi Airport, and Khalifa Port
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Utilities: Reliable electricity, water, and waste management
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Customs Support: Easy import/export operations
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Labor Accommodation: ICAD provides nearby residential zones for workers
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Business Support Services: Licensing, visa processing, logistics, and legal help available
Industries Located in ICAD
ICAD is home to companies across a variety of sectors:
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Steel & Metal Fabrication
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Automotive & Machinery
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Oil & Gas Equipment Manufacturing
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Construction Materials
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Food & Beverage Processing
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Pharmaceuticals & Packaging
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Electrical & Electronics
Major companies like Ducab, Cleveland Cable, and Gulf Steel have their operations in ICAD.
Why Set Up a Business in ICAD?
✅ Strategic Location
Easy access to UAE highways, ports, and airways helps reduce transportation costs and time.
✅ Government Support
Abu Dhabi offers competitive incentives, tax benefits, and smooth regulatory procedures for investors.
✅ Modern Infrastructure
ICAD provides purpose-built industrial plots and ready warehouses for immediate operations.
✅ Affordable Workforce Housing
With labor accommodation nearby (e.g., ICAD Residential City), companies can house workers conveniently.
✅ Free Zone Alternatives
Companies have options to operate under mainland or free zone regulations, depending on needs.
Real Estate Options in ICAD
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Industrial Land Plots – Customizable for large factories
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Warehouses – Pre-built units with loading bays and utilities
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Offices – Administrative and management spaces
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Labor Camps/Accommodation – Available for employee housing
These properties can be leased with long-term contracts and expansion flexibility.
How to Start a Business in ICAD
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Choose a Business Activity – Match your industry to ICAD’s supported sectors
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Register with ZonesCorp – Submit your business plan and documents
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Get Approvals – From Department of Economic Development and environmental authorities
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Lease a Facility – Choose from warehouses, plots, or offices
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Set Up Operations – Begin construction or move into a ready-built facility
Professional business setup consultants in Abu Dhabi can assist in streamlining the process.
Nearby Amenities and Infrastructure
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ICAD Residential City – Affordable housing for workers
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Hotels and Serviced Apartments – For visiting business personnel
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Banks and ATMs – On-site financial services
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Restaurants and Grocery Stores – Serve daily needs of workers and staff
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Proximity to Mussafah – Major industrial suburb with support services
Final Thoughts
The Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD) is at the heart of the UAE’s push toward economic diversification and industrial excellence. It offers a well-planned, business-friendly environment with everything an industrial operation needs to succeed.
Whether you’re a manufacturer, logistics provider, or investor, ICAD represents a solid opportunity to grow your business in the Middle East with confidence.
