New cross-jurisdiction system
The permit, introduced under Dubai Executive Council Decision No. 11 of 2025, lets eligible free zone companies holding a Dubai Unified Licence (DUL) apply digitally via the Invest in Dubai (IID) platform. The process is fully online and designed for efficiency, particularly for SMEs, startups, and incorporation agents seeking mainland access.
The new permit will enable companies to trade domestically, integrate with local supply chains, and compete for government tenders, previously restricted to mainland-licensed entities. Early projections suggest a 15–20% increase in cross-jurisdiction activity within the first year.
Driving Dubai’s economic vision
Ahmad Khalifa AlQaizi AlFalasi, CEO of DBLC, said the initiative reflects Dubai’s ambition to become the world’s most business-ready city.
“By simplifying cross-jurisdiction operations, we’re strengthening Dubai’s competitiveness and enabling investors to grow with confidence,” he said. “This initiative supports the D33 Agenda’s vision to double the size of Dubai’s economy and build a globally competitive, digital-first environment.”
Dr. Juma Al Matrooshi, Assistant Secretary General at the Dubai Free Zones Council, said the new permit enhances Dubai’s appeal for international investors. “It supports Dubai’s world-class business ecosystem by combining the flexibility of free zones with the opportunities of mainland operations,” he said.
Permit terms and scope
In its initial phase, the framework covers non-regulated sectors such as technology, consultancy, design, professional services, and trading, with plans to expand to regulated industries.
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The permit costs Dh5,000, valid for six months and renewable for the same fee.
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Companies must maintain separate financial records and pay 9% corporate tax on mainland-related revenues, in line with Federal Tax Authority rules.
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Businesses can deploy their existing free zone staff for mainland operations, eliminating the need for new hires.
Strengthening Dubai’s position
The Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit builds on previous regulatory reforms, including the Dubai Unified Licence, to streamline business registration and compliance.
It also reinforces Dubai’s standing as a global investment hub by enhancing transparency, reducing barriers to entry, and improving operational flexibility for companies of all sizes.
Officials said the initiative will boost investor confidence, create new trade opportunities, and help drive long-term growth across key sectors — in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.
Justin is a personal finance author and seasoned business journalist with over a decade of experience. He makes it his mission to break down complex financial topics and make them clear, relatable, and relevant—helping everyday readers navigate today’s economy with confidence.
Before returning to his Middle Eastern roots, where he was born and raised, Justin worked as a Business Correspondent at Reuters, reporting on equities and economic trends across both the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.