Dubai has officially launched the One Freezone Passport initiative, a strategic move by the Dubai Free Zones Council (DFZC) to ease the process of operating across the emirate’s multiple free zones. The programme allows companies to maintain a single business licence while accessing various free zone jurisdictions across the city. According to the Dubai Media Office, this initiative aims to boost business efficiency, simplify operations, and attract international investment.
Marking the programme’s debut, Louis Vuitton became the first global brand to utilise the system. The luxury fashion house has expanded its presence by maintaining its warehouse operations in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), while establishing a new corporate office at One Za’abeel within the Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone (DWTC Free Zone). Impressively, the entire expansion process was completed in just five days.
Boosting Dubai’s Global Business Appeal
The One Freezone Passport is aligned with the broader goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which focuses on cementing the city’s reputation as a hub for global commerce and enterprise growth. Officials have emphasised that the system reflects the emirate’s continued innovation in regulatory efficiency.
Dr. Juma Al Matrooshi, Assistant Secretary General at the Dubai Free Zones Council, stated
“The One Freezone Passport is a transformative initiative that cements Dubai’s position as a global economic powerhouse. By enabling businesses to expand seamlessly across our world-class free zones, we are reinforcing Dubai’s reputation as a premier investment destination. The swift and successful onboarding of Louis Vuitton through this program exemplifies the efficiency and attractiveness of Dubai’s regulatory framework for international businesses.”
Meanwhile, Abdalla Al Banna, Vice President of Free Zone Regulatory Operations at DWTC, added:
“The successful onboarding of Louis Vuitton, one of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands, through the citywide One Freezone Passport initiative demonstrates both the calibre of businesses Dubai continues to attract and our commitment to fostering an efficient business environment.
“The company’s decision to expand operations into DWTC Free Zone from JAFZA reinforces international confidence in Dubai’s business ecosystem. This innovative programme from Dubai Free Zones Council enhances Dubai’s attractiveness for global enterprises by enabling seamless operations across the city’s free zones, actively contributing to Dubai’s vision of becoming the world’s leading destination for international investment and business setup.”
Enhancing Innovation and Economic Growth
This strategic expansion not only highlights Louis Vuitton’s confidence in the emirate’s infrastructure but also reinforces the DWTC Free Zone’s role as a launchpad for international business growth. The initiative contributes to strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading economic centre, underpinned by operational flexibility and regulatory clarity.
Dubai continues to implement forward-thinking programmes that support its ambitions for global leadership in investment and commerce. The DWTC Free Zone, home to businesses across over 40 sectors, offers an innovation-friendly ecosystem in a regulated environment, tailored to meet the diverse needs of global companies, SMEs, and entrepreneurs.
