Masdar ‘innovation ecosystem’ status drives future expansion

ABU DHABI / WAM

Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, one of the world’s most sustainable urban developments, will undergo significant expansion over the next five years driven by its emergence as a hub for R&D and the commercialisation of clean technologies.
“Around 35% of the planned built-up area will be completed over the next five years – up from 5% today – and nearly 30% has been committed to, including private homes, schools, hotels and more office space,” said Anthony Mallows, Executive Director of Masdar City, adding that all available space within its existing buildings, and those under construction, is fully leased.
“Masdar City’s expansion is gathering pace because today we are recognised as an innovation ecosystem – a hub for R&D, technology, human capital building, business opportunity and investment.”
Plans for a purpose-built community serving the Middle East’s first dedicated R&D cluster integrated with a world-class research institute will be unveiled at Cityscape Abu Dhabi, the property exhibition and conference taking place from April 12-14. Besides 2,000 residential apartments, the concept involves developing restaurants, cafes, a premium school and green open spaces within walking distance of a number of Masdar City’s flagship R&D and pilot facilities, which include ground-breaking projects in solar energy, energy storage, green building and urban sustainability.