Abu Dhabi economic licences rise 5% as Masdar City fuels innovation growth.
Abu Dhabi: Masdar City Free Zone has been named among the world’s top 10 free zones in the Financial Times’ fDi Intelligence Global Free Zones of the Year Awards 2026.
The recognition comes as Abu Dhabi’s startup ecosystem continues to expand. The emirate entered Startup Genome’s global top 50 startup ecosystems for the first time in 2026, with its ecosystem valued at $73 billion.
Masdar City Free Zone is home to more than 2,800 companies from 90 countries, bringing together researchers, entrepreneurs and leading regional institutions, according to Ahmed Baghoum, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar City.
The ranking provides international recognition of the free zone’s business offering and knowledge-driven environment. Separately, the number of new economic licences issued across Abu Dhabi rose by 5 per cent in the first half of the year, according to figures cited in the original announcement.
“Being named among the world’s top 10 free zones is a proud moment for our team, our partners and the companies that have chosen to build their business with us,” Baghoum said.
The Abu Dhabi-based free zone also received a “Highly Commended” distinction in the Knowledge Zones of the Year category, both globally and for the Middle East. The annual awards assess free zones based on their performance, business proposition and contribution to investment and economic activity.
“We will keep making it simpler for companies to establish, connect and scale, because every company that grows with Masdar City Free Zone adds up to Abu Dhabi’s Falcon Economy and to the future-focused industries the UAE is building,” Baghoum added.
Masdar City Free Zone offers company licensing, workspaces and business support services to startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, and multinational companies. Its tenants operate across sectors including advanced technology, artificial intelligence, sustainability and clean energy.
