Set Up a Company in Masdar City Free Zone
Sustainable economic free zone. Best free zone for renewable energy (fDi 2016). Clean tech innovation hub.
Masdar City Free Zone
Masdar City
- Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
- Regulated by Masdar City
- Established 2006
- Official website
Best for:
Why Choose Masdar?
Masdar City Free Zone is a sustainable economic and urban development free zone in Abu Dhabi. Recognised as the best free zone for renewable energy by Financial Times fDi Magazine in 2016, Masdar hosts clean technology companies, renewable energy firms, and sustainability-focused businesses.
Sustainability Focus
Purpose-built for clean tech and renewable energy companies.
Award-Winning
Named best free zone for renewable energy by fDi Magazine.
Innovation Hub
Home to research institutions and clean tech startups.
Green Infrastructure
Sustainable urban development with green buildings.
Research Network
Connected to Masdar Institute and research facilities.
Government Support
Strong Abu Dhabi government backing for sustainability.
Important: What Masdar companies cannot do
- Limited to sustainability-related activities
- Located in Abu Dhabi
- Specialist focus may not suit general businesses
Masdar Setup Costs — 2026 Pricing
Prices shown are indicative of 2026 market rates. Exact costs depend on your chosen activities, visa quota, and office package. Get an exact quote →
Year 1 total: ~AED 20,000+ |Annual renewal: From AED 13,000. Year 2 onwards is typically 30–40% less as registration fees are one-off.
How to Register a Company in Masdar
Choose Your Activities
Select up to 1-3 business activities from Masdar's approved list.
Reserve Your Company Name
Choose a unique company name following UAE naming rules. Must include FZE or FZCO suffix.
Submit Documents
Passport copy, photo, proof of address. Can be processed 100% remotely.
Receive Initial Approval
Masdar reviews your application. Initial approval typically takes 5 business days.
Pay & Receive Your Licence
After payment, your trade licence is issued within 5-14 working days.
Apply for Visas
With your licence, apply for UAE residence visas. Process takes 3-5 weeks with in-person medical and biometrics.
UAE Residence Visas Through Masdar
Visa Quota
With a Masdar licence you can sponsor up to 50 residence visas depending on your office package. Flexi desk packages typically allow 2 visas.
Visa Cost
Each UAE residence visa through Masdar costs approximately AED 4,000 – 6,000 including entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping fees.
Visa Validity
UAE free zone residence visas are valid for 2–3 years and can be renewed. Your visa is tied to your company — if the licence lapses, visas must be renewed or cancelled.