Building contracting in KEZAD (Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi) 

Building contracting in KEZAD (Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi): local context

KEZAD, formerly known as KIZAD, is the industrial free zone near Khalifa Port between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, hosting manufacturing plants, logistics warehouses and cold stores on large plots. It has expanded since the early 2010s. Manolia completed HVAC works for a packaging manufacturing facility here. Facilities are often built quickly to meet production start dates.

• Construction approvals typically run through the KEZAD zone authority's own channel, with fire safety review; requirements are confirmed per plot and use.
• Coastal plots near the port combine salt with blowing dust, so equipment needs both corrosion protection and robust filtration.
• The location sits between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, so manpower and material logistics from Dubai are practical with planning.

Building types we serve in KEZAD (Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi)

For factories and industrial plants, the work concentrates on process cooling and ventilation, heavy LV distribution, hazard-appropriate fire protection and plant that tolerates dust and high ambient temperatures.

Scope of work

• Excavation, dewatering where groundwater requires it, shoring and foundations, including raft or piled foundations as designed by the structural engineer.
• Blockwork, plastering, waterproofing of basements, wet areas and roofs, and thermal insulation to meet the building's energy requirements.
• Building envelope packages including curtain wall or window systems, cladding, shading elements and sealants, coordinated with specialist subcontractors.
• Authority inspections, snagging, completion certificates and handover documentation, including keys, warranties and training for the client or operator.

Systems we install

• Curtain wall, window wall or punched window facade systems with thermal performance specified.
• Complete MEP: HVAC, electrical, plumbing, drainage, fire protection and BMS.

UAE site and climate challenges

• Concrete poured in summer heat loses water fast, risking plastic shrinkage cracks and lower strength. We schedule large pours for night or early morning, use chilled water or ice in mixes as specified, and keep wet curing going on slabs and columns.
• Sand and wind carry dust into fresh plaster, paint and MEP equipment. We sequence wet trades and finishing so building envelope closure comes first, and protect installed equipment until handover.
• Facade system choice: unitised curtain wall installs faster with factory quality control, while stick systems are more flexible for complex geometry, smaller buildings and late design changes.

Relevant Manolia projects

Frequently asked questions