Dubai, UAE – His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, has issued an Executive Council Resolution No. (11) of 2025, regulating the operations of free zone companies in Dubai.
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This new directive allows free zone companies in Dubai to operate in Mainland Dubai. Previously, companies registered in a free zone could only operate and provide services within that free zone and internationally.
However, any free zone company wanting to operate on the mainland must obtain the necessary licenses or permits from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
This new directive 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.
For professionals and digital nomads seeking stability and growth, this directive signals an opportunity to be part of an established and ever-growing economy.
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Below is a quick look at the important notes of the resolution:
- Free zone registered companies can now operate in the Dubai mainland
- DET has been given the mandate to grant permission to a company that wishes to operate outside the free zone by providing a license for establishing a branch within the emirate or issuing a license for a branch with its headquarters in the free zone.
- The license is given for 1 year and is renewable
- To operate outside Dubai, companies must secure necessary licenses and permits from the local authorities in the location where they want to carry out the business
- DET is to issue a list of economic activities that companies can conduct in Dubai, within six months, depending on whether they hold a branch license in the emirate, a branch with headquarters in the free zone, or a permit for specific activities.
