The Dubai Free Zones Council (DFZC) convened its 32nd meeting to review key strategic initiatives driving the emirate’s long-term growth under the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). The agenda seeks to double Dubai’s economic size within a decade and position the emirate among the world’s top three urban economies.
Strengthening Free Zones and Innovation
Chaired by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the Council reviewed the Ignyte initiative, developed by the Dubai International Financial Centre. This digital platform connects startups with experts, investors, and major corporations, supporting Dubai’s Digital Economy Strategy by enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Council members emphasised extending Ignyte’s benefits to free zone companies to drive innovation, promote international expansion, and strengthen Dubai’s position as a hub for high-value industries.
Special Economic Zones Law and Legislative Progress
The meeting also covered progress on the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Law. The Council directed further consultations with federal and local entities to refine legislative procedures aimed at enhancing the investment climate, boosting competitiveness, and ensuring sustainable growth across Dubai’s free zones.
Advancing Emiratisation in Free Zones
Members discussed challenges in Emiratisation within free zone companies, highlighting the need to expand training and employment opportunities for Emirati graduates. Recommendations included increased collaboration with the Emirati Human Resources Development Council and targeted measures to recruit and empower national talent in the private sector.
Global Engagement and Knowledge Exchange
Preparations for the 11th annual World Congress of the World Free Zones Organization, taking place from October 10–12, 2025, in Hainan Province, China, were also reviewed. The event will gather over 1,500 policymakers, business leaders, investors, and free zone experts, under the theme “Zones: Gateways to Global Prosperity, Trade, and Sustainable Innovation,” facilitating knowledge exchange and international collaboration.
The Council concluded that these initiatives underscore Dubai’s free zones as critical drivers of sustainable economic growth, investment attraction, and global competitiveness.
