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The expansion, reported by the Emirates News Agency, follows the successful launch of the free zone’s first international office in Suzhou Industrial Park in December 2025. More than 15 Chinese companies have since registered with the free zone, demonstrating strong interest from businesses in clean energy, artificial intelligence and advanced technology. The new offices in Shanghai and Shenzhen are positioned to serve the Yangtze River Delta and Greater Bay Area, two of China’s primary hubs for outbound investment.
Masdar City Free Zone conducted a delegation visit to multiple Chinese cities including Shanghai, Suzhou, Wuxi, Shenzhen and Guangzhou ahead of the openings. During the trip, discussions were held with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade in Shanghai and the China General Chamber of Commerce. A memorandum of understanding was also signed with China Machinery Engineering Corporation, a subsidiary of Sinomach, to support Chinese firms establishing operations in Abu Dhabi.
In an announcement Dr. Mohamed Al Breiki stated, “Our presence in China continues to grow, and with it, our understanding of what Chinese companies need to set up and grow in Abu Dhabi. With teams now in Shanghai, Shenzhen and Suzhou, we are removing that barrier and turning relationships with leading Chinese institutions into real investment, technology transfer and shared growth. This is a tangible step towards advancing Abu Dhabi’s Falcon Economy vision.” The executive director of Masdar City highlighted how the on-ground presence would promote technology transfer and shared growth.
The Suzhou office operates in partnership with Suzhou Yingdi Consultants while the Shanghai and Shenzhen offices work with TXTK and CGCC International respectively. Chen Rui, managing director of TXTK, said, “Suzhou has already shown us what direct engagement can do. By operating locally on ground in Shanghai and Shenzhen, we’re able to support Chinese companies in Mandarin, in their own time zone, from their first enquiry through to business setup. This expansion reflects TXTK’s commitment to making market entry into the UAE simpler and more accessible.” These partnerships enable local language support and streamlined setup processes for interested businesses.
Companies establishing a presence in Masdar City Free Zone benefit from licensing within one day and visas in four days along with 100 percent foreign ownership. The zone offers zero personal income tax, reduced corporate tax on qualifying income and dual licensing options with the Abu Dhabi mainland, with initial registration fees starting at AED 7,000. Data from the free zone indicates more than 2,500 companies from over 90 countries are already based there.
Tenants include major entities such as the International Renewable Energy Agency, the UAE Space Agency, Siemens Energy, G42, the Advanced Technology Research Council and the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. The free zone focuses on sectors aligned with Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification goals including clean energy, smart mobility, AI, agri-tech, life sciences and aerospace.
