Ahmed bin Saeed chairs key Dubai Free Zones Council meet

Dubai: The Dubai Free Zones Council (DFZC), chaired by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, held its 32nd meeting to review new initiatives designed to strengthen the role of free zones as a driving force in the emirate’s economy. The discussions highlighted measures to support Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33, which seeks to double the size of the city’s economy within a decade and cement its place among the world’s top three urban economies.

One of the key highlights was the presentation of the Ignyte initiative, a digital platform developed by the Dubai International Financial Centre. The platform is designed to connect startups with experts, investors and leading corporations, enhancing opportunities for growth, innovation and international expansion. Council members stressed the importance of extending these benefits across Dubai’s free zones to further boost the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

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The meeting also reviewed progress on the Special Economic Zones Law, directing continued coordination with federal and local authorities on legislative procedures. The move aims to strengthen Dubai’s investment climate and maintain global competitiveness across its free zones.

On the social development front, the Council addressed challenges related to Emiratisation within free zone companies. It called for expanding training and employment opportunities for Emirati graduates and strengthening cooperation with the Emirati Human Resources Development Council in Dubai to ensure greater integration of national talent in the private sector.

Looking ahead, the Council reviewed preparations for the 11th annual World Congress of the World Free Zones Organization. The global gathering, set to take place in Hainan, China, from 10 to 12 October 2025, will bring together more than 1,500 senior policymakers, business leaders and free zone experts. With the theme “Zones: Gateways to Global Prosperity, Trade, and Sustainable Innovation,” the event is expected to serve as a leading platform for global dialogue and collaboration.

The 32nd DFZC meeting underscored the central role of free zones in driving sustainable growth, attracting investment and reinforcing Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs.