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Dubai opens doors for free zone businesses to expand into mainland

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Dubai has introduced a new rule allowing Free Zone businesses to operate in mainland Dubai, making it easier for companies to grow and expand. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, issued Executive Council Resolution No. (11) of 2025 to regulate Free Zone businesses working outside their zones.

This decision is part of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the city’s economy by 2033 and establish Dubai as one of the world’s top three economic cities.

What This Means for Businesses

Under the new rule, any business licensed in a Free Zone can now operate in mainland Dubai, but they must get the proper licences or permits from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This move is designed to:

  • Boost investment and job creation
  • Help Free Zone businesses expand easily
  • Attract more global businesses to Dubai
  • Strengthen Dubai’s position as a business hub

How Businesses Can Apply

Free Zone companies can now apply for:

  • A branch licence in mainland Dubai
  • A branch license with headquarters in a Free Zone
  • A permit for specific activities

These licences are valid for one year and can be renewed. The DET will also issue a list of economic activities Free Zone businesses can engage in within six months.

Rules & Compliance

To operate in mainland Dubai, businesses must:

  • Follow all local and federal laws
  • Keep separate financial records for mainland and Free Zone operations
  • Get additional approvals if expanding outside Dubai

The DET will also conduct regular inspections to ensure businesses follow the rules. Companies already working outside Free Zones have one year to comply, with a possible one-year extension.

Why This Matters

This game-changing move makes it easier for businesses to grow in Dubai, attracting more investors and entrepreneurs. It also reinforces Dubai’s commitment to innovation, economic growth, and making business easier.

(Source: Wam)

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

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Dubai’s Jebel Ali Racecourse to become a green urban neighbourhood with parks, homes and walkways

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Big changes are coming to Jebel Ali as the historic racecourse is set to be transformed into a walkable neighbourhood filled with parks, homes, shops and community spaces.

The five-square-kilometre area will be developed under a master plan created by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and backed by A.R.M Holding. The project, known as the A.R.M Holding Mega Project, will turn the former racetrack into a new “green district” that puts people, nature, and community at its heart.

What to expect

At the centre of the development will be a large central park that keeps the memory of the racetrack alive. Around it, a series of small, mixed-use neighbourhoods will be built – with homes, shops, offices, and parks all within walking distance. The idea is to let nature flow through the district, connecting the different areas like “urban islands in a sea of green.” The development is set to begin in 2026.

A city designed for well-being

The entire area will follow a “city-as-gym” concept where everything is walkable within five minutes, whether it’s your local park, a shop, your workplace or a community space. This setup aims to encourage an active lifestyle while improving public health and happiness.

The project also includes eco-friendly features like urban farms and passive cooling, supporting the goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. It will also include modern equestrian facilities to honour the area’s racing heritage.

Keeping it local

A key goal is to blend global design with local identity. A.R.M Holding says the community will reflect Emirati culture, values, and social needs, while also welcoming small local businesses to thrive within the neighbourhood.

“This masterplan will serve as a bridge for communication, understanding, and empathy – all of which are central to our vision of enabling prosperity,” said H.E. Mohammad Saeed Al Shehhi, CEO of A.R.M Holding.

The Jebel Ali redevelopment promises to offer a new kind of living experience in Dubai – one where green spaces, community, and culture come together.

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UAE Central keeps borrowing costs unchanged at 4.40%

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The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has decided to keep its Base Rate unchanged at 4.40%, following the US Federal Reserve’s move to hold interest rates steady.

This rate applies to the Overnight Deposit Facility (ODF) and acts as a guide for short-term interest rates in the country.

The CBUAE also confirmed that the interest rate for borrowing short-term funds from the central bank will remain 50 basis points (0.50%) above the Base Rate.

The Base Rate is linked to the US Federal Reserve’s Interest Rate on Reserve Balances (IORB) and reflects the UAE’s overall monetary policy direction.

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Dubai Civil Aviation Authority unveils new corporate look

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The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has officially launched a new corporate identity, marking a major milestone in its journey toward innovation and global leadership in the aviation sector.

The new look is part of a wider strategy to modernise the authority’s image while staying true to its deep-rooted history and aligning with Dubai’s vision for the future of civil aviation.

A Fresh Start with a Nod to the Past

The identity was unveiled under the slogan “Returning to the Beginnings with New Horizons. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the DCAA, said the new identity represents a perfect balance of heritage and forward-thinking, symbolising a new era in the authority’s development.

Designed for the Future

The refreshed identity includes:

  • A custom traditional typeface, inspired by the 1970s Civil Aviation Department nameplate
  • A unified colour palette, symbols, and visual elements for all platforms
  • A design that brings together heritage and modern aesthetics

Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Director-General of the DCAA, said the identity aims to foster a work environment of excellence, innovation, and institutional pride.

A Unified Brand

The updated identity will be rolled out across digital platforms, publications, and communication channels.

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