Ahmed Bin Mohammed Highlights Economic Growth At 10th World Free Zones Organisation Congress In Dubai

H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, attended the World Free Zones Organisation (World FZO) World Congress in Dubai. The event, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, marked the launch of World FZO's new corporate identity on its 10th anniversary.

The congress took place at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai and was the largest since the organisation's inception. Attendees included H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority; Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister of Dominica; Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy; and Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade.

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During his speech, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed highlighted Dubai's pioneering free zone model as a key economic growth driver. "Dubai is on a steady path to becoming one of the world's top three urban economies within the next decade," he stated, aligning with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).

Sheikh Ahmed also emphasised Dubai’s role as a global hub for investment and innovation. The emirate’s advanced technology infrastructure supports its position as an international destination for talent and future-focused industries.

Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri noted that UAE’s free zones have evolved into significant economic platforms connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa. "With 44 multi-specialised free zones, the UAE boasts highly efficient infrastructure," he said, enhancing national competitiveness across sectors like technology and finance.

The minister highlighted how these zones contribute to economic diversification by creating jobs and fostering innovation. Since 2021, they have attracted over 60,000 companies by becoming hubs for advanced technology and talent development.

World FZO's New Identity

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni introduced World FZO’s new corporate identity during his opening speech. He stated that this marks a new phase under the theme ‘NextGen Free Zones: A Decade of Progress’. This phase will focus on three pillars: Impact, Influence, and Trust.

"Over the past decade, the World FZO has been instrumental in advancing the economic sector," said Al Zarooni. The organisation has grown from 14 founding members to a global community of 1,600 members from 141 countries.

Strategic Objectives

The World FZO aims to open new investment horizons while supporting net-zero initiatives through its strategic objectives. By leveraging learning tools and fostering collaboration within global free zones, it seeks to drive meaningful change.

The organisation remains committed to reshaping perceptions by adopting innovative methods and offering effective solutions. It aims to reinforce its reputation as a leader in the free zone sector through purposeful initiatives.

Global Economic Contributions

The World FZO focuses on strengthening trade relations between economic zones in member countries while expanding into emerging sectors like AI and digital trade. By supporting knowledge-based economies, it contributes to comprehensive global growth.

Throughout its first decade, the organisation prioritised expanding its member base while providing integrated services. It fostered dialogue with stakeholders to achieve global prosperity through economic zones.

With inputs from WAM