Masdar City Free Zone

Masdar City, a sustainable urban development in Abu Dhabi,  serves as a hub for businesses involved in discovering, generating, and manufacturing energy and green technology products in the Middle East. The Masdar City Free Zone is home to a diverse range of businesses, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs), international companies, and start-ups. It offers all the free zone benefits for businesses.

If you are planning to start a green company or expand your business, the Masdar free zone is appropriate for you. 

Aspects Masdar Free Zone Focuses On

The Masdar free zone primarily focuses on four energy industry related aspects. These focus areas include:

• Masdar Power 

Masdar Power handles the power projects in Masdar City, the United Kingdom, and the Seychelles. Some of their projects include solar, wind, and a variety of other renewable energy options.

• Masdar Carbon 

Masdar Carbon supports projects associated with building a hygienic innovation system and carbon storage facilities. It aims to minimise carbon emissions and fight climate change.

• Masdar Venture 

Masdar Venture invests in fostering renewable energy and sustainable technology projects. 

• Masdar Institute of Science and Technology (MIST)

MIST is a research university that focuses on creating solutions for alternative energy sources. The university was set up so that its students could thoroughly research renewable energy options.

Business Structures Available for a Masdar Freezone Company Setup

To set up a business in the Masdar City Free Zone, companies need to operate in compliance with the Masdar City Company Registration Regulations.

Companies can choose from three legal business structures. These include:

• Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)
• A Branch of a UAE registered company; and
• A Branch of a foreign company.

Business Activities Allowed in the Masdar City Free Zone

This Abu Dhabi Free Zone offers a variety of business options from which you can select. Here are the business activities allowed in the Masdar City Free Zone -

1. Clean technology 
2. Advertising and Event Management
3. Renewable Energy
4. Healthcare Services
5. Trading, Holding, and Regional Headquartered companies
6. Human Resource Development
7. Regional Headquarters
8. Food, Beverages, and Retail
9. Business Centre and Data Centres
10. Clean Tech and Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
11. Sustainable Energy
12. Energy Sector
13. Oil and Gas
14. Services Providers

Documents Required for Establishing a Business in Masdar City Free Zone

For setting up a business in the Masdar Free Zone, you will need to submit the following documents:

• A business plan
• The company’s Articles of Association (AoA) and Memorandum of Association (MoA)
• Passport/residency visas of associated business owners and directors
• Bank’s reference letter to indicate proof of the share capital
• Copy of the lease agreement

How to Setup a Business in Masdar City Free Zone

You need to undergo a four-step process to launch a business in the Masdar City Free Zone. 

1. Decide a Business Activity

Firstly, you need to choose a business activity that can be conducted in the Masdar Free Zone by adhering to the legalities.

2. Register the Company Name

You are then required to complete your registration via the e-services portal. You can propose a new name and reserve it by making an online payment. The submitted application will be subject to review and receipt of necessary approval from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). 

3. Submit Documents

Submit the required documents to the Masdar free zone authority through the e-services portal. This will be followed by the verification of the documents submitted by the authorities.

The authorities will issue your company’s legal documents, such as the resolution, AoA and MoA.

4. Obtaining the License and Finalising the Lease 

Once the legal documents are obtained and signed, you need to finalise the lease agreement and make payment via Masdar City Free Zone’s one-stop shop or courier service. You will then receive the certificate of incorporation and licence that can be visible on the Masdar City e-platform.

Masdar city is a premium destination for technology and green companies and is backed by the government. We at Commitbiz will take care of your company’s incorporation, licensing and other relevant formalities.

We would love to be a part of your journey right from the start. Our experts will ensure a smooth transition into the Masdar business world. Get in touch with us soon!