Dubai has officially launched the “One Freezone Passport,” a strategic initiative enabling businesses to operate across free zones in the emirate under a single license, reinforcing its global standing as a leading investment destination.
The Dubai Free Zones Council (DFZC) confirmed on Tuesday that this streamlined licensing framework allows companies licensed in one free zone to access facilities and operations in others without the need for duplicate registrations. The move aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which seeks to double the city’s GDP and elevate its global economic competitiveness by 2033.
Louis Vuitton became the first company to benefit from this initiative. The luxury fashion brand now operates its warehouse in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) while housing its corporate office at One Za’abeel under the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority (DWTCA). Notably, the entire process of expanding operations across zones was completed in just five days.
The Dubai Free Zones Council and the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority welcome Louis Vuitton as the first corporate member under Dubai’s One Freezone Passport Initiative. This milestone underscores Dubai’s commitment to fostering an agile and investor-friendly business… pic.twitter.com/4ACKoJSoHb
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) July 22, 2025
Amna Al Ali, Vice President of Licensing and Registration at JAFZA, emphasized the impact of this development, calling it a “transformative approach to free zone operations” that improves efficiency, scalability, and investor appeal.
Currently, the UAE hosts more than 40 multidisciplinary free zones that offer 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions. These zones are known for their advanced infrastructure and tailored regulatory environments that support international business and innovation.
The One Freezone Passport not only simplifies regulatory requirements but also removes barriers for companies looking to expand their physical and operational footprint across Dubai. Officials say this will help attract more foreign direct investment (FDI), particularly from companies seeking agility and scalability in their regional headquarters.
The DWTCA Free Zone—home to multinational companies, SMEs, and startups—serves as a prime example of Dubai’s diverse business ecosystem. With over 40 sectors represented, including technology, logistics, retail, and media, it underscores Dubai’s commitment to building an adaptive and innovation-friendly economy.
This milestone follows another key reform introduced in March 2025, where companies in free zones were granted the ability to expand into mainland Dubai upon acquiring the necessary license from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
Key Facts
- Initiative Name: One Freezone Passport
- Launched By: Dubai Free Zones Council (DFZC)
- First Member: Louis Vuitton
- License Process Completion Time: 5 days
- Access: 40+ free zones across Dubai with one license
- Major Benefit: No need for additional licensing across zones
Dubai’s move reflects a larger economic transformation underway in the UAE—towards leaner regulatory frameworks and globally competitive business incentives. The One Freezone Passport is expected to attract companies in logistics, e-commerce, tech, fashion, and other sectors that require operational flexibility and fast-track scalability.
