New Permit Enables Free Zone Firms to Operate Across Dubai Mainland
The Dubai Executive Council has introduced Decision No. 11 of 2025, establishing a new authorization called the “Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit.”
This permit enables companies registered in Dubai’s free zones to conduct business and commercial activities within the mainland as well.
According to an official statement by the Dubai Media Office, the initiative has been developed in coordination with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Free Zones Council (DFZC). The goal is to foster closer collaboration between free zones and the mainland, boost investment appeal, and reinforce Dubai’s role as a leading regional economic center.
Under this framework, free zone companies can engage in mainland projects or contracts without the need to establish a separate entity, provided they obtain the necessary approvals for their activities from the Department of Economy and Tourism.
At present, this regulation is exclusive to the Emirate of Dubai and has not yet been applied in other emirates such as Abu Dhabi or Sharjah.
Nevertheless, experts suggest that if successfully implemented, this initiative could serve as a model for similar reforms across the UAE.