In a landmark move to boost business flexibility and international investment, Dubai on Tuesday introduced the One Freezone Passport initiative, enabling companies to operate across all free zones in the emirate under a single licence. The new programme, launched by the Dubai Free Zones Council (DFZC), aims to streamline operations, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and accelerate economic growth.
Global luxury brand Louis Vuitton became the first corporate entity to benefit from the initiative. The French fashion house has expanded its operations by maintaining its warehouse facilities in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) while establishing a new corporate office at One Za’abeel, part of the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Free Zone. The transition, completed in just five days, has been hailed as a testament to the city’s business efficiency.
Dr. Juma Al Matrooshi, Assistant Secretary General of the DFZC, said the initiative marks a turning point for Dubai’s economic landscape. “The One Freezone Passport is a transformative initiative that cements Dubai’s position as a global economic powerhouse. By enabling businesses to expand seamlessly across our world-class free zones, we are reinforcing Dubai’s reputation as a premier investment destination,” he said.
Dubai is home to over two dozen free zones, each serving specialised sectors such as trade, media, education, logistics, and finance. These zones have played a key role in supporting the UAE’s non-oil economy, offering businesses benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, and tax exemptions. In the first quarter of 2025, the UAE’s non-oil foreign trade surged by 18.6% year-on-year to Dh835 billion, with free zones contributing significantly to this growth.
Abdalla Al Banna, Vice-President of Free Zone Regulatory Operations at DWTC, noted that Louis Vuitton’s swift expansion is an endorsement of the emirate’s robust regulatory framework. “The successful onboarding of Louis Vuitton through the citywide One Freezone Passport initiative demonstrates both the calibre of businesses Dubai continues to attract and our commitment to fostering an efficient business environment,” he said.
Amna Al Ali, Vice-President of Licensing and Registration at Jafza, further explained that the passport allows businesses to utilise facilities in any free zone without applying for separate licences. “It’s a game-changer for companies seeking operational flexibility and cost efficiency,” she said.
Officials believe the programme will bolster investor confidence and enhance Dubai’s appeal as a global hub for multinational operations.
