Masdar City Free Zone
Start Your Business in UAE’s Premier Innovation Hub
Looking to start a business in the UAE? Consider Masdar City Free Zone, one of the most forward-thinking and sustainable Free Zones in Abu Dhabi. Strategically located within Masdar City, this economic zone is designed to support businesses in clean technology, renewable energy, AI, sustainable development, innovation, R&D, and more.
Located in strategic areas near to major trade routes, where businesses can access international markets, connect with suppliers and customers, build global partnerships, and utilize diverse talent pools.
Advanced infrastructure includes state-of-the-art transportation networks, highspeed internet, renewable energy sources, smart infrastructure, and sustainability certified facilities. These elements collectively enable businesses to operate smoothly, and grow sustainably.
A thriving R&D ecosystem that fosters creativity, attracts top talent, and accelerates
the commercialization of new ideas. It enables businesses to stay ahead of industry
trends and meet evolving market demands
Incubation and acceleration programs to foster innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurial success. Access invaluable support to startups and offer mentorship, training, networking opportunities, and access to funding.
Masdar City offers high-quality living with excellent amenities and recreational opportunities. Companies there enjoy boosted employee satisfaction, productivity, well-being, and motivation, while also building a strong employer brand for business success.
Benefits of setting up a Masdar Free Zone company in UAE
Foreign-owned
100% ownership ,
no local sponsor needed.
Tax-friendly
0% corporate tax in the freezone
0% personal income tax in UAE
Cost-effective
Competitive fees,
no minimum capital,
flexible office options.
Mix & Match
Pick business activities
as per your license
Business freedom
Wide range of activities,
streamlined
setup process.
Strategic location
Prime spot near ports & airports,
strong regional & global links
Supportive Infrastructure
World-class facilities,
dedicated business services
Companies Established at Masdar City Freezone

Siemens Energy is a leading energy technology company that partners with customers, industry, and research to develop future energy systems, covering almost the entire energy value chain from power generation to storage, to support a sustainable energy transition.

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is a global intergovernmental agency driving energy transformation. IRENA promotes all forms of renewable energy for sustainable development, energy access, and a climate-resilient future.

ENEC is evolving into a global nuclear energy leader, applying its expertise to future nuclear science and technology in the UAE ENEC is expanding its civil nuclear development to support global decarbonization and the goal of tripling nuclear energy capacity by 2050.

With a vast portfolio of 92 plants today across the GCC, Egypt, and India, Tabreed has become a vital, indispensable part of the region’s infrastructure with an unwavering commitment to decarbonisation and sustainability.

Siemens provides end-to-end solutions, from strategy and operations consulting to solution architecture and implementation. With comprehensive expertise in IT and OT
combining extensive experience from Siemens’ own transformation journey with an established reliability stemming from customer projects across diverse industries and countries.

The UAE Space Agency, established in 2014, is responsible for developing, regulating, and growing the UAE’s space sector. It achieves this through partnerships, academic programs, R&D investments, commercial initiatives, and by driving space science research and exploration. The Agency’s headquarters are in Abu Dhabi.

QCC that ensures quality infrastructure meets global standards by developing standards, building metrology systems, strengthening testing infrastructure, launching conformity schemes, protecting consumers, and ensuring fair trade.

Abu Dhabi Customs is a government entity that implements the UAE’s customs policy. It acts as Abu Dhabi’s main gateway, overseeing the movement of people and goods across borders and collecting customs duties.

Etihad Airways, one of the two UAE flag carriers and is the UAE’s second-largest airline, operating over 1,000 weekly flights to more than 120 passenger and cargo destinations across the globe to over 120 passenger and cargo destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America

Lockheed Martin specializes in defense tech, solving complex challenges, advancing scientific discovery and delivering innovative solutions that help our customers keep people safe. Operating a diversified portfolio in defense, advanced technology and knowledge transfer programs, we partner with the UAE for security and prosperity.

Global Education Management Systems is an international education company that operates more than 60 schools across the Middle East and North Africa, and also has schools in Asia, Europe, and North America

Ryan International Group of Institutions is a group of private educational institutions in many countries. The group collaborates with universities in the US to enhance education globally.

The New England Center for Children (NECC), a global leader in autism education and research, has opened a new clinic in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, which will offer applied behavior analysis (ABA) and speech and language services to clients and their families of all nationalities, in both English and Arabic.

Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) is a graduate research university dedicated to advancing AI as a global force for humanity. The University attracts world-class thinkers and doers in computer vision, machine learning, natural language processing, and beyond.

The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) is a global research center focused on advancing knowledge. Our scientists, researchers, and engineers work to develop transformative technologies and discovery science, aiming to create the future and inspire innovation.

The Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) is an Abu Dhabi government entity responsible for shaping advanced research and development (R&D) for technology in Abu Dhabi.

GET A CALL IMMEDIATELY!
100% Privacy Guaranteed
Types of Business Setups in the UAE Free Zones
Free Zones offer distinct advantages depending on the industry and niche. Here are some of the common business types you can obtain in a UAE Free Zone
Trading
A trading licence is issued to a Freezone company setup that is engaged in buying, selling, or trading goods. It's perfect for retailers and wholesalers.
Ecommerce
As the name suggests, an ecommerce licence is good for web stores that sell goods and products online.
Media
Media, publishing, and broadcasting companies require this licence to operate legally in a Free Zone.
Consultancy
This licence is useful for businesses that provide professional consulting solutions, such as legal advice and accounting services.
Freelance
This licence is ideal for solo professionals (freelancers) who offer services like writing, design, web development and consultancy.
Manufacturing
If your Freezone company setup involves producing and manufacturing goods, this licence fits the bill.
General Trading
If your business involves storing and distributing goods, this licence will provide the green light to you.
Training Institute
If your Freezone business setup in UAE offers education and training services, you need this licence to operate schools or training centres as per your requirements.
Steps to Set Up a Free Zone Business in the UAE
While the U.A.E. Free Zone company setup involves several steps, the process is designed to be straightforward, efficient, and prompt. With minimal paperwork and quick procedures, setting up your business is hassle-free. The Growth ensures every step is handled with precision, guiding you through the process seamlessly and error-free.
1
Select a
Legal Structure
Choose the appropriate business structure according to your requirements from the 3 structures we discussed above, namely a Free Zone Limited Liability Company, a Free Zone Establishment, or a branch office.
2
Pick a
Trade Name
Pick a unique trade name for your business. It must follow the UAE rules and regulations regarding company names and align with your business activity
3
Apply for
the License
Choose the licence that is most suitable for your business activity and apply for it.
4
Select an
Office Space
Choose an office space that meets your immediate space requirements. The area should not be too small or too large, depending on the size of your team and business activities
5
Secure
Approvals and License
Check if you need any more approvals from a government authority to conduct your operations legally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a Freezone license in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi?
A Freezone license in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi allows companies to operate within a designated economic zone, offering benefits like 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified import/export procedures.
Why Choose Masdar Freezone over other options?
- 100% Foreign Ownership
- No Trade Barriers
- Higher
- Confidentiality
- Exemptions From Import Charges
- 0% corporate tax and 0% personal income tax
- Full repatriation of profits and capital
- Fast and simplified business setup process
- Access to world-class infrastructure and flexible office solutions
- Strategic location near Abu Dhabi Airport and major logistics hubs
What kind of industries supported by Masdar Free Zone ?
Clean Energy & Sustainability
Smart Technology & AI
Biotechnology & Life Sciences
Engineering & Consultancy Services
E-commerce & Digital Platforms
Education & Training
Media, Design & Communications
Can Freezone companies trade with mainland companies?
Enterprises operating in the UAE Freezones that trade in tangible items are only permitted to do so worldwide and with other Freezone businesses, or they must partner with a third-party distributor (local service agent) to conduct business with the mainland.
Is a physical office space required for a Freezone license?
Most Freezones require a physical office space. The Growth can help you find suitable office options that meet the Freezone’s requirements.
How long does it take to obtain a Freezone license through The Growth?
The timeframe varies depending on the chosen free zone and the type of license. However, the process can usually be completed within a few weeks to a couple of months.
Can The Growth assist with visa applications?
Yes, The Growth can guide you during the visa application process for you and your employees, helping you navigate the requirements set by the relevant authorities.