UAE Free Zones News – Business Setup & Investment Opportunities

From free zones to business ecosystems

The UAE experience offers a blueprint for South Asia’s next generation of investment hubs

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A well-connected economic zone with strong institutions, infrastructure and business services can become increasingly valuable as more companies establish themselves there, creating a network in which businesses benefit from both the underlying infrastructure and from the presence of other companies operating within the same environment.

ArcelorMittal Projects to open third plant in Sharjah

Steel giant to expand Sharjah footprint to 5m sq ft by 2026

Hamriyah Free Zone has established itself as a leading hub for heavy industries linked to steel value chains, with the sector representing one of the Free Zone’s principal industrial pillars. Pictured above is Sharjah’s Hamriyah Free Zone, used for illustrative purposes.

How UAE free zone companies can operate in mainland

New rules allow free zone firms to move onshore without closing

The amendments to the laws are expected to increase company registrations by 10–15 per cent in the first year and support the country’s goal of reaching two million companies by the end of the decade.

UAE targets 2 million companies in next decade

New laws, visas and 100% foreign ownership rules drive UAE’s business expansion

In 2025 alone, nearly 250,000 new companies were established. SMEs owned by UAE nationals grew by 63% over the past five years.

New unified platform planned for all Dubai free zones

Free Zones Council reviews plans to streamline services, simplify investor experience

New unified platform planned to connect all Dubai free zones

Blue Line Boost: Dubailand turns UAE resident hotspot

Dubai Land Residence Complex (DLRC) now one of Dubai’s closely watched mid-market spots

Tilal Al Ghaf in Dubailand

Why UAE freelance visas are under the spotlight

Experts reveal UAE freelance visa requirements - what to know before applying or renewing

Experts reveal what’s really happening behind the tighter checks and documentation rules.

Jafza, DIFC partner to create dual-zone framework

New model links trade, finance, and industry to boost Dubai’s global investment appeal.

Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza)

DP World opens Jebel Ali–Berbera route

New DP World route connects Jebel Ali to Berbera, strengthening Horn of Africa trade links

Container vessel at Jebel Ali terminal

DP World expands electric fleet at Jebel Ali Port

eITV fleet at Jebel Ali Port up tenfold, growing from 14 to 146 vehicles within a year

An aerial view of the Jebel Ali Port DP world (JAFZA).

Need a berth for your yacht? Dubai just made it digital

New Dubai platform lets yacht owners reserve pier slots via mobile and portal

A yacht is pictured at the Dubai Marina in Dubai August 6, 2025.

New free zone mainland operating permit in Dubai

New permit lets free zone firms trade in Dubai mainland, access tenders, expand operations

Dubai Airport Free Zone

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