How to Setup a Company in Masdar City: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you an entrepreneur looking to set up a business in Masdar City? Located in Abu Dhabi, Masdar City is known for its sustainable and eco-friendly approach towards development. In this blog post, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of setting up a company in Masdar City. We will start by discussing the city’s focus on sustainability and how it can impact your business. You’ll also learn about incorporation requirements and office/laboratory space options available in Masdar City. Additionally, we’ll discuss other permits required for operation and how to adhere to operational requirements. Finally, we’ll explore unique funding and incentive programs available for companies in Masdar City that you can take advantage of. Follow our guide to ensure a smooth and hassle-free setup process for Masdar City company setup.

Understanding Masdar City’s Focus on Sustainability

Masdar City prioritizes sustainable urban development and clean tech, aiming to become a hub for renewable energy and sustainable business. Its strategic location offers close proximity to international markets, ideal for business setup. Aligned with the global shift towards clean tech, setting up a business here can contribute to the sustainable energy industry in the Middle East.

The Green Energy Initiative

Masdar City’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and research attracts clean tech companies, creating opportunities for businesses in the energy industry. The city provides resources and support for ventures in renewable energy, aligning with the goals of the International Renewable Energy Agency and enhancing its global relevance. This initiative further solidifies Masdar City’s position as the best free zone for companies looking to benefit from the foreign ownership policies and the support provided by the Mubadala Development Company.

Masdar City serves as a catalyst for sustainable urban development and renewable energy research. Its focus attracts large companies and clean tech startups, fostering business opportunities in renewable energy and sustainable urban solutions. By offering resources and infrastructure, Masdar City supports companies dedicated to sustainable business segments, positioning itself as an attractive location for corporate entities committed to sustainability.

Step-by-Step process to Establish a Company in Masdar FreeZone

Step 01 – Business Name Registration

Complete the name registration form and submit it along with the AED 2,000 name reservation fee to the Free Zone Authority. Then, forward the paperwork to the Department of Economic Development (DED) of Abu Dhabi.

Step 02 – License Application

Upon successful registration of your business name, you’ll receive a licensing form and trade name certificate. Fill out the form and provide essential documents such as your business plan. Submit these to the relevant authorities. Expect an Acceptance Letter from the Free Zone Authority after they review your documents, typically within 3 days.

Step 03 – Bank Account Opening

After receiving the Acceptance Letter, initiate the process of opening a corporate bank account. Contact the Masdar City free zone authority for assistance. Upon opening the account, obtain a Capital Confirmation Letter from the bank.

Step 04 – License Acquisition and Lease Signing

Submit the Capital Confirmation Letter to the Free Zone Authority. Once acknowledged, sign the Memorandum and Articles of Association (MAA). Upon receiving the Proof of Capital Letter, the free zone will issue the license agreement. Sign the lease agreement before obtaining the trade license.

Documents Required to Establish a Company in Masdar

Following is a list of documents required, if you want to establish a company in the freezone of Masdar.

• Business plan
• Shareholder(s) or Parent Company details
• Original Certificate of Registration of the Corporate Person (or notarized copy)
• Original Certificate of Good Standing (if applicable, or notarized copy)
• Copy of valid Trade License issued by the Department of Economy & Development
• Copy of Commercial Registration issued by the Department of Planning & Economy
• Personal details (CV) of individual shareholder(s)
• Valid passport copy of individual shareholder(s)
• Original Reference letter from the Bank for individual shareholder(s)
• Specimen signature of individual shareholder(s)
• Passport-size photograph (with white background) of individual shareholder(s)
• Original Memorandum and Articles of Association of the parent company with list of current Directors
• Shareholder(s)/Board Resolution of the parent company/Corporate Shareholder(s) (Notarized and Legalized)
• Appointment of Negotiator/Legal Representative (optional)
• Power of Attorney for the Manager (if not included in Resolution, Notarized and Legalized)
• Details of Directors: Valid Passport copy, Specimen signature, Passport-size photograph
• Details of Managers: Valid Passport copy, NOC from current Residency visa Sponsor in the U.A.E. (if applicable), Specimen signature, passport-size photograph.

Navigating the License Application Process

Exploring the available business licenses is the initial step in the license application process. Understanding the procedure to obtain the relevant license is essential. This involves engaging with government departments and websites for the application. Additionally, Masdar City’s business consultants can provide guidance for obtaining the necessary license. The process includes comprehending the types of available business licenses and the required steps to acquire them.

Types of Business Licenses Available

In Masdar City, companies have the opportunity to explore a variety of business licenses tailored to specific segments and activities. Understanding these options is crucial for selecting the most suitable license for company activities. The flexibility provided by different business licenses allows companies to establish diverse business activities in the area, particularly in renewable energy, clean tech, and sustainable urban development.

Obtaining the relevant license in Masdar City involves following specific steps outlined by business setup consultants. Understanding these steps is crucial for successful business setup, ensuring companies adhere to the prescribed process for a successful acquisition. Navigating the license application process requires strict adherence to streamline the business setup. The steps are designed to facilitate the process and include guidance from Masdar City’s business setup consultants.

Initiating the business license application process involves crucial interaction with government departments and dedicated websites. Leveraging these resources is essential for ensuring business compliance in Masdar City. Accessing government platforms streamlines the application process, facilitating the smooth acquisition of business licenses. Engaging with these entities is integral for companies seeking to establish a presence in the Masdar free zone, ensuring adherence to foreign ownership regulations and corporate tax requirements.

Understanding Incorporation Requirements in Masdar City

Incorporation requirements in Masdar City cater to various business segments, including foreign ownership. The legal structure of companies in Masdar City often involves setting up a limited liability company (LLC). Business setup consultants play a crucial role in facilitating the understanding of these incorporation requirements, ensuring compliance with the regulations of Masdar City Freezone. Once understood, the next step is to proceed with the company formation process, possibly with the guidance of Mubadala Development Company.

The legal entity formation in Masdar City encompasses limited liability, providing security to business owners. Expert consultants facilitate understanding the minimum share capital and number of founders required, ensuring compliance with regulations. Foreign ownership is permitted in the Masdar City free zone, allowing for 100% ownership. Business setup involves company incorporation and acquiring a trade license, integral to establishing operations within the free zone.

Incorporating a company in Masdar City requires specific documents. These include a comprehensive business plan, passport copies of shareholders, essential legal documents for corporate bank account opening, and an introduction letter. Additionally, seeking assistance from company formation services can streamline the process by ensuring all necessary documentation is prepared efficiently.

Exploring Office/Lab Space Options in Masdar City

Masdar City, a hub for sustainable urban development, offers office spaces suitable for various business activities. Both large corporations and LLC companies can benefit from the lease agreements available in the Masdar free zone. The business center and support from Mubadala Development Company make it convenient to set up operations without personal income tax or corporate tax liabilities. The strategic location in Khalifa City attracts international markets, making it the best free zone choice for new ventures.

Leasing plug-and-play offices/labs on campus at Masdar City free zone offers benefits such as repatriation of capital and sustainability ideal for clean tech companies. These ready-to-use office spaces promote business growth and development, making them convenient for corporate entities. The campus provides an ideal location for LLC companies, attracting international markets due to its strategic location in Khalifa City. Masdar City free zone is recognized as the best free zone, offering varied lease agreements for office spaces.

Identifying suitable workspace involves the selection of sustainable office spaces, catering to the needs of foreign ownership and LLC companies in the Masdar free zone. The streamlined lease agreement process supports the renewable energy industry, with guidance from Masdar City’s business setup consultants. Reserved office spaces are beneficial for sustainable urban development companies, aligning with the vision of Masdar City as the best free zone for such businesses.

At Arnifi, we offer a selection of available office spaces, including the Startup Package, Women Entrepreneurship Package, Business City Package, and Safe Zone Package. Explore these packages on our product page for more details.

Other Permits Required for Operation

Obtaining labor permits is crucial for operating businesses in Masdar City. Foreign investors require assistance in acquiring commercial permits for business setup in the Masdar City free zone. After company setup, acquiring necessary commercial, labor, and municipal permits becomes essential. Company setup consultants play a vital role in guiding the acquisition of labor, commercial, and municipal permits, supporting business operation in the best free zone.

Acquiring labor, commercial, and municipal permits is vital for business operation in Masdar City. The Department of Economic Development assists in permit acquisition, and business consultants facilitate commercial permit processes. Understanding the regulations for these permits is essential, especially for foreign investors. The assistance provided by Masdar City’s consultants can make the process smooth and efficient.

When setting up a company in Masdar City, business setup consultants play a crucial role in guiding companies through the process of obtaining commercial, labor, and municipal permits. This assistance is especially vital for foreign ownership in the Masdar free zone. With the support of Masdar’s business team, understanding and fulfilling the requirements for these permits becomes more manageable and ensures compliance with the regulations.

Adhering to Operational Requirements

Ensuring legal compliance is paramount in Masdar City. The diverse permissible business activities cater to LLCs, branch offices, or holding companies, depending on the business segments. Its strategic location near Abu Dhabi International Airport is advantageous. Business setup consultants can help with business plans and trade license applications. The incorporation of foreign ownership, annual audit, and corporate tax is seamless within the Masdar free zone.

Conclusion

Setting up a company in Masdar City requires careful consideration of sustainability and adherence to specific eligibility criteria. It is important to understand the focus on green energy and the role of Masdar City in sustainable development. Navigating the license application process and understanding incorporation requirements are crucial steps in the setup process. Additionally, exploring office/lab space options and obtaining necessary permits are essential for smooth operations.

Masdar’s business support team can provide assistance throughout the process. In conclusion, starting a company in Masdar City offers unique opportunities for businesses dedicated to sustainability. By following the step-by-step guide and leveraging the resources available, you can establish a successful and environmentally conscious venture. Consider the benefits of operating in a city committed to green initiatives and take advantage of the funding and incentive programs available. Begin your journey towards a sustainable future by setting up your company in Masdar City.

ALSO READ: Setting up a Company in Masdar City – Best opportunities: FAQS

About Arnifi

Arnifi is digital first Corporate service provider helping companies enter the Middle East region, starting with UAE and Saudi Arabia markets. Founded and backed by professionals from Amazon, Souq and other large companies operating in KSA – the team understands what it takes to succeed as a startup in both UAE and Saudi Arabian markets, apart from going through the setup process multiple times.

Arnifi will provide a truly digital experience to entry and scale up of companies both UAE and Saudi Arabia. The Arnifi promise is simple, yet revolutionary, use technology and a great team to provide transparency, efficiency and great customer experience in the whole process. Check out at – www.Arnifi.com for more details.