Dubai has introduced a groundbreaking resolution allowing free zone businesses to operate anywhere in the emirate with the right permits. The move aims to strengthen economic flexibility and global investment appeal.
Dubai’s new regulation, issued by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, allows free zone-licensed entities to operate beyond their designated zones, provided they secure the necessary permits from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This shift enhances business agility and investment opportunities across the emirate.
The ability of free zone businesses to expand into mainland Dubai will drive increased demand for commercial spaces, corporate headquarters, and logistics hubs. Investors should anticipate greater demand in business districts, particularly in areas like Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and Dubai Silicon Oasis. Additionally, the move aligns with the D33 agenda, which aims to double Dubai’s economy to AED 32 trillion by 2033.
Dubai has consistently ranked as the world’s top destination for greenfield FDI projects, with 1,117 projects worth AED 52.3 billion in 2023. This regulatory change is expected to further boost FDI by offering greater operational flexibility to international businesses, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global investment hub.
This resolution enhances Dubai’s attractiveness for corporate expansion, making it easier for companies to operate across multiple jurisdictions. For real estate investors and business leaders, this evolution signals a surge in demand for mixed-use developments, office spaces, and industrial properties. Now is the time to capitalize on Dubai’s expanding economic framework.
