Dubai: In his capacity as the Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, issued Executive Council Resolution No. (11) of 2025, regulating the operations of free zone establishments in Dubai.
According to Emirates News Agency, the provisions of this resolution apply to establishments seeking to operate outside the free zone, with the exception of financial institutions licensed to operate within the Dubai International Financial Centre. This aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to double the size of Dubai's economy in the decade up to 2033, and consolidate its position among the world's top three economic cities.
The resolution stipulates that any company or institution licensed by a free zone relevant authority may operate outside the free zone and within Dubai, provided it obtains the necessary licences or permits from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This development allows Free Zone businesses to expand their operations beyond the free zones into mainland Dubai.
This initiative is a part of the D33 Agenda to create a dynamic business ecosystem. It aims to elevate the competitiveness of Dubai's business sector and improve efficiency for both local and global businesses. The city's enabling environment, recognised business-friendly regulations, and the ability for Free Zone businesses to integrate into the mainland, support this focus.
The resolution also underscores Dubai's commitment to supporting businesses and fostering growth. It encourages increased economic activity, job creation, and innovation, positioning the city as a hub for business, investment, and entrepreneurship. This initiative demonstrates Dubai's readiness to nurture entrepreneurial ambitions and drive sustainable development.
Under the resolution, establishments must adhere to applicable federal and local regulations related to their activities and maintain separate financial records for operations conducted outside the free zone. If establishments wish to operate outside the Emirate of Dubai, they must secure the required licences and permits from relevant authorities in the intended location.
DET is authorized to permit an establishment to operate outside the free zone within the Emirate of Dubai by issuing a licence for establishing a branch or a licence for a branch with headquarters in the free zone. These licences can be renewed annually, and specific activity permits may also be issued.
The resolution outlines requirements for licensing a branch within the Emirate of Dubai or any other free zone. It details procedures for issuing activity permits and conditions for employing the establishment's workforce. DET, in coordination with the licensing authority, will issue a list of economic activities that establishments can conduct in Dubai within six months.
Establishments licensed to operate under this resolution are subject to inspections in accordance with federal and local laws. They must comply with its provisions within one year from the effective date, with a possible extension by the Director General of the DET.
This resolution annuls any conflicting resolutions and will be effective from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.