Masdar City Free Zone is the world's first purpose-built, planned sustainable urban community and clean-tech business hub, located 17 kilometres from Abu Dhabi's city centre. Developed by Mubadala Investment Company and designed to be one of the world's most sustainable urban developments, Masdar City combines a free zone business environment with cutting-edge green infrastructure including renewable energy systems, passive cooling architecture, and zero-waste initiatives. The free zone hosts over 1,000 companies and 60+ cleantech startups, along with the Masdar Institute (now Khalifa University) — one of the world's leading graduate schools for renewable energy and sustainability research. Masdar City is home to IRENA (International Renewable Energy Agency) headquarters, positioning it as a global nexus for international energy policy and innovation. Companies in Masdar City benefit from operating in a living laboratory for sustainability technologies, with access to research partnerships, testing facilities, and a thriving cleantech investment community.
About Masdar City Free Zone
Masdar City Free Zone is the world's first purpose-built, planned sustainable urban community and clean-tech business hub, located 17 kilometres from Abu Dhabi's city centre. Developed by Mubadala Investment Company and designed to be one of the world's most sustainable urban developments, Masdar City combines a free zone business environment with cutting-edge green infrastructure including renewable energy systems, passive cooling architecture, and zero-waste initiatives. The free zone hosts over 1,000 companies and 60+ cleantech startups, along with the Masdar Institute (now Khalifa University) — one of the world's leading graduate schools for renewable energy and sustainability research. Masdar City is home to IRENA (International Renewable Energy Agency) headquarters, positioning it as a global nexus for international energy policy and innovation. Companies in Masdar City benefit from operating in a living laboratory for sustainability technologies, with access to research partnerships, testing facilities, and a thriving cleantech investment community.
Key Information
| Zone Name | Masdar City Free Zone |
| Emirate | Abu Dhabi |
| Setup Cost | From AED 20,000 |
| Visa Quota | Flexible |
| Min. Capital | None |
| Setup Time | 5-7 business days |
Costs & Fees
| License Fee / Setup Cost | From AED 20,000 |
| Minimum Share Capital | None |
Cost Notes
All costs shown are approximate and subject to change. Additional costs may include registration fees, notarisation, visa medical fees, and bank account opening fees. Always verify the exact costs with Masdar City Free Zone directly before proceeding.
Permitted Business Activities
The above activities are indicative. Masdar City Free Zone may permit additional activities based on your specific business requirements. Always confirm with the zone authority.
How to Set Up in Masdar City Free Zone
- Choose your business activityIdentify the specific business activities you want to conduct. This determines the license type you need.
- Select your packageChoose between flexi-desk, shared office, or dedicated office options based on your needs and budget.
- Submit your applicationProvide required documents including passport copies, business plan, and completed application forms.
- Pay fees and receive your licenseOnce approved, pay the applicable fees and receive your trade license — typically within 5-7 business days.
- Apply for visasUse your trade license to apply for investor and employee visas through the free zone authority.
- Open a bank accountUse your incorporation documents to open a corporate bank account with a UAE or international bank.