Masdar City ready to start the next phase

Plans for phase two of Masdar City. Courtesy Masdar

ABU DHABI // Masdar City is to expand again over the next five years with the construction of a research and development hub, a school, homes and retail stores.

A spokesman for the low carbon-footprint city said residences would be built largely to accommodate those working at the site’s dedicated research and development cluster.

“About 35 per cent of the planned built-up area will be completed over the next five years – up from 5 per cent today – and nearly 30 per cent has been committed to, including private homes, schools, hotels and more office space,” said Anthony Mallows, executive director of Masdar City.

He said all space within Masdar’s buildings – and those under construction – was leased.

“Masdar City’s expansion is gathering pace because today we are recognised as a hub for R&D (research and development), technology, human capital building, business opportunity and investment.”

Besides 2,000 residential flats, the latest concept emphasised green open spaces within walking distance of a number of Masdar City’s projects, including the Siemens headquarters and Masdar Institute itself.

Masdar representatives said the new development would provide more opportunities for collaboration between the institute and the wider business and clean technology community.

“As the surrounding community at Masdar City grows, so the R&D cluster will also expand,” said Dr Noura Al Kaabi, director of research and development at the Masdar Institute.

“Effective research and development of viable technologies requires a culture of collaboration and an environment where scientific theory and practical insight can flourish.”

Mr Mallows said that having institutions and businesses dedicated to clean technology within walking distance of each other would make give Masdar an advantage over competitors.

“By making clean energy commercially viable, we help preserve the planet, inspire innovation and new industries, and diversify the UAE economy and economies around the world,” he said.

Masdar will reveal more details about the hub at Cityscape Abu Dhabi, the property conference in the capital from April 12 to April 14.