The Knight Frank Guide to Aberdeen for Businesses

Aberdeen is one of Scotland's most important economic centres, and is widely recognided as the 'Energy Capital' of Europe. On top of this, it's home to several world-class research institutions, and growing technology and life sciences industries. 

The city is Scotland’s third largest and has a population of around 220,000 people, and a regional catchment area that doubles this figure. It has been a significant base for the British offshore energy industry since the 1970s, and now is proving its worth as a global hub for the renewable energy sector. Over the past decade, significant private and public investment has been made into energy projects, including onshore and offshore wind, tidal, carbon-capture and solar. A second harbour port was recently completed at New South Harbour, to service businesses in the renewable game.

Aside from energy, the city benefits from an international airport, two highly regarded universities, seven major research institutes, and world-renowned food, fisheries and agricultural research establishments. Digital technology, life sciences and tourism are all growing, too, with significant investment in infrastructure, business parks, and innovation hubs set to reinforce Aberdeen’s status as a major economic player that can attract multinational corporations and dynamic start-ups alike.

Getting there

Aberdeen’s excellent transport connections make it an accessible and well-connected city for businesses operating across the UK and internationally. Aberdeen Station provides:

• Direct train services to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and London via ScotRail, LNER, and CrossCountry
• Frequent connections to Inverness and Dundee, ensuring strong regional business links

For international travel, Aberdeen International Airport offers direct flights to key UK and European destinations, supporting business connectivity. The A90 and A96 road networks provide efficient access to Scotland’s central belt and the Highlands, while the city’s port facilities make it a vital hub for offshore & maritime industries and cruise liners.

Within the city, an expanding bus network, dedicated cycling routes, and future transport investments aim to enhance connectivity and sustainability for professionals and commuters.

Meet the Neighbours

Aberdeen offers a variety of business districts tailored to different industries and corporate needs.

• Aberdeen International Business Park: A prime location for multinational firms and corporate headquarters, offering modern office spaces, excellent transport links and superb amenities.
• Aberdeen Energy and Innovation Parks, Bridge of Don: A key hub for research and development, home to life sciences, engineering, technology companies and digital businesses
• West End & City Centre: The heart of Aberdeen’s commercial activity, home to major Energy companies, financial services, legal firms, and retail enterprises
• Prime Four Business Park, Kingswell: A modern office park, with large Grade A buildings, which is widely recognised as being Aberdeen’s premier out of town office location. Occupiers are predominantly large energy sector businesses
• Westhill/Arnhall: A popular and established out of town location for office occupiers, mainly in the Energy sector. There’s been various office developments which provide a mixture of small self contained suites, multi-occupancy pavilions and larger stand alone facilities

On your doorstep

Aberdeen boasts a vibrant dining and hospitality scene, with a range of options ideal for business meetings, client entertainment, and post-work networking.

For high-end dining, The Silver Darling, overlooking the harbour, offers fresh seafood and fine cuisine, while Moonfish Café is known for its creative contemporary dishes. The Chester Hotel provides an elegant setting for more formal dining, or corporate events.

Casual dining options include The Albyn for quality grills, The Pigs Wings for street food style dining,  The Parx for gourmet sandwiches, and Milton on the Corner and No. 10 for relaxed business lunches. For artisan coffee and informal meetings, Foodstory and Cognito are popular choices.

For after-work drinks,  The Tippling House serves expertly crafted cocktails, while BrewDog Aberdeen and Fierce Bar are still champions for craft beer enthusiasts. Traditional pubs like The Prince of Wales and The Grill, meanwhile, offer a relaxed atmosphere for an after-work drink.

Retail in Aberdeen centres around Union Square Shopping Centre, which features high-end brands in an upscale environment, while the West End and Rosemount is perfect for boutique shopping and independent retailers.

Places of interest

Aberdeen’s rich heritage, stunning coastline, and cultural scene has created an inspiring backdrop for businesses looking to make their mark on the city. ​​And there’s no sight more impressive than Balmoral, which has been the cherished home of the British Royal Family since 1852.

The historic Marischal College is one of the city’s architectural landmarks, showcasing Aberdeen’s proud granite-built legacy. Aberdeen Beach provides a scenic retreat just minutes from the city centre, ideal for lunchtime walks and outdoor meetings. Duthie Park has acres of green space, including the Winter Gardens – a perfect place to chill out when time allows.

For cultural experiences, the Aberdeen Art Gallery presents an impressive collection of contemporary and classical works, while His Majesty’s Theatre hosts world-class performances and business networking events. The Gordon Highlanders Museum offers a unique insight into the city’s military history.

Golfers are spoilt for choice: there are more than 55 courses spread across the region for you to enjoy, with the Royal Deeside Golf Week offering an annual selection of courses for those wanting a challenge.

Find your base in Aberdeen

At Knight Frank, we know how important it is that you find office space that’s within budget and is conveniently located but that also makes you and your team happy. With our expertise and extensive knowledge of the Aberdeen office space and commercial rental market, we’re perfectly placed to empower your search.

Take a look at our offices to rent in Aberdeen or get in touch for help finding the perfect office space for your business.