Dubai World Trade Centre Authority (DWTCA) has launched a new framework allowing companies in the DWTC Free Zone to issue multiple classes of shares, offering unprecedented flexibility in capital structuring and governance.
The reform, described as a landmark move, is designed to help businesses scale, attract investment, and innovate. It aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which targets doubling the emirate’s economy by 2033 and positioning Dubai among the world’s top three urban economies.
Under the new rules, registered companies can now issue a variety of share types beyond ordinary shares, including preference, founder’s, and restricted shares, as well as tiered classes such as A, B, C, and D. These can be customized through a company’s Memorandum of Association to define specific rights and conditions related to voting, dividends, transfers, and conversion options.
The DWTCA framework also includes governance safeguards to ensure transparency and protect shareholder interests.
Abdalla Al Banna, Vice President of Free Zone Regulatory Operations at DWTC Free Zone, said the initiative “sets a new industry standard for capital structuring in the region” and supports Dubai’s vision of becoming a leading global business hub.
By enabling differentiated share classes, the new system allows companies to attract investors with varying risk appetites, preserve founders’ control, support family offices in succession planning, and reward talent through equity-based incentives.
The announcement follows DWTCA’s recent jurisdiction expansion to One Za’abeel, enhancing its infrastructure and business offerings. The DWTC Free Zone currently hosts companies across more than 40 sectors, providing a dynamic environment with full foreign ownership, 0% corporate tax, and streamlined licensing.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
