Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi Group (Kezad), recognized as the largest operator of integrated economic zones in the UAE, is set to create a new commercial hub aimed at drawing more global investors to the emirate. The new Kezad Business District (KBD) will be located in Al Ma’mourah and is designed as an integrated mixed-use commercial hub.

The development will include a variety of components such as offices, retail spaces, residential areas, lodging, educational institutions, professional training facilities, and leisure options. Once completed, the district will serve as a site for investors looking to establish their regional headquarters, as well as research and innovation centers, training facilities, service providers, and educational institutions.

Abdullah Al Hameli, chief executive of Economic Cities and Free Zones at AD Ports Group, stated that Kezad will deliver a “next-generation business district that will further elevate Abu Dhabi’s proposition to global investors.” He emphasized that the project not only reaffirms their commitment to providing investors with comprehensive solutions for business growth but will also create development opportunities and stimulate new investments within the broader Kezad Al Ma’mourah master plan.

Kezad Group operates as a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Ports Group, managing infrastructure and services across 12 economic zones in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and the Al Dhafra Region, covering a total area of 550 square kilometers. The group facilitates strategic market access and lower operational costs, supporting more than 2 100 businesses across 17 key industrial sectors.

In the context of these developments, Abu Dhabi’s economy saw an annual growth of 3.8 percent in 2024, reaching a record Dh1.2 trillion. The non-oil sector marked significant progress during the same period, growing by 6.2 percent to Dh644.3 billion, which represents its highest annual contribution to the total gross domestic product at 54.7 percent.

As part of efforts to diversify its economy away from oil dependency, Abu Dhabi is expanding its non-oil sectors, including aviation and manufacturing. The business district is initially planned to span approximately three square kilometers and will be developed in phases, with infrastructure work currently underway. The district is expected to foster close collaboration between academia, businesses, and industry.