The Dubai Free Zones Council (DFZC), chaired by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, convened its 32nd meeting to advance initiatives that reinforce free zones as a cornerstone of Dubai’s economic expansion and its long-term D33 agenda.
The strategy seeks to double the emirate’s economy within a decade and secure its place among the world’s top three urban economies.
At the meeting, members reviewed the Ignyte initiative, a digital platform developed by the Dubai International Financial Centre. The platform links startups with investors, experts, and corporations, strengthening Dubai’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and supporting the emirate’s digital economy goals. The Council stressed the importance of extending its benefits to free zone companies to boost innovation and global competitiveness.
The session also focused on legislative progress under the Special Economic Zones Law, with directives for further consultations to improve the investment environment and drive sustainable growth.
In line with Dubai’s social development objectives, the Council addressed challenges in Emiratisation across free zones. It recommended greater training and employment opportunities for Emirati graduates and closer collaboration with the Emirati Human Resources Development Council to increase national participation in the private sector.
Preparations for the 11th annual World Congress of the World Free Zones Organization were also discussed. Scheduled to take place in Hainan, China, from 10 to 12 October 2025, the event will gather over 1,500 policymakers, business leaders, and investors under the theme “Zones: Gateways to Global Prosperity, Trade, and Sustainable Innovation.”
Council members affirmed that the discussions highlight the expanding role of free zones in driving sustainable economic growth, attracting global investment, and cementing Dubai’s position as a leading international business hub.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
