Abu Dhabi · Established 2008

Masdar City Free Zone Masdar City FZ

AED 15,000 – 60,000 per year · Based on office space; no fixed hard cap

Sectors

TechnologyEnergyHealthcareConsulting

Advantages

  • World’s first planned sustainable city — UAE’s leading clean-tech and renewable energy hub
  • 2,000+ companies across AI, agritech, life sciences, energy, smart mobility, and space tech
  • Home to IRENA, UAE Space Agency, Siemens Energy, and Mohamed bin Zayed University of AI
  • 68% workforce growth YoY (2024–2025) — fastest-growing UAE free zone
  • Zero-carbon infrastructure; solar-powered and sustainability-certified facilities

Trade-offs

  • Location 30 km from Abu Dhabi city centre
  • Sustainability and clean-tech focus — not suitable for conventional trading or manufacturing
  • Abu Dhabi banking ecosystem smaller than Dubai

Setting up

Setup ease

Straightforward for tech and sustainability companies. One-stop shop available. 5–10 business days. Clean-tech and research activities well-supported.

Opening a bank account

Bank account

Abu Dhabi-based banks (FAB, ADCB) are familiar with Masdar. Tech and sustainability businesses generally accepted. Fewer banking options vs. Dubai.

Questions

How much does it cost to set up a company in Masdar City FZ?

Licence from AED 10,000–15,000; registration AED 5,000. Min share capital AED 50,000 for LLC.

What business sectors are supported by Masdar City FZ?

Masdar City Free Zone supports: Technology, Energy, Healthcare, Consulting.

Is it easy to open a bank account with a Masdar City FZ licence?

Abu Dhabi-based banks (FAB, ADCB) are familiar with Masdar. Tech and sustainability businesses generally accepted. Fewer banking options vs. Dubai.

Does Masdar City FZ require a physical office?

No, a physical office is not mandatory. Flexi-desk and virtual office options are available. Flexi-desk and co-working available. Dedicated offices and research lab space also available.

How many visas can I get through Masdar City FZ?

Visa quota: Based on office space; no fixed hard cap.

Also in Abu Dhabi

Company formation

Open in the right place.

Tell us what you sell and who buys it. We'll come back with the jurisdiction that fits, what the licence carries, and what it takes to get banked.