Economic Security Centre of Dubai, Dubai Free Zones Council and Emirates NBD sign MoU to support growth of Dubai’s free zones ecosystem
The Economic Security Centre of Dubai, the Dubai Free Zones Council, and Emirates NBD have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the investor journey and advancing the ease of doing business across Dubai’s free zones.
The agreement supports the continued expansion of Dubai’s free zones ecosystem and aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, reinforcing the emirate’s commitment to strengthening its economic model and global competitiveness.
Accelerating investor services and banking integration
Under the MoU, the three entities will collaborate on a series of high-impact initiatives designed to accelerate bank account opening procedures for investors operating within free zones. The move is expected to enhance the investment attractiveness of Dubai’s economic zones and further position them as primary drivers of foreign direct investment.
The partnership will also focus on integrating advanced digital solutions and emerging technologies to boost operational efficiency and ensure compliance with international regulatory standards. Key areas of cooperation include streamlining company incorporation, registration, licensing, commercial transactions, and other post-establishment services.
In addition, the entities will establish enhanced data and information exchange mechanisms to support regulatory transparency and improve coordination across the free zones ecosystem.
Strengthening institutional collaboration
H.E. Faisal Bin Sulaitin, Chief Executive Officer of the Economic Security Centre of Dubai, described the MoU as a pivotal step toward deepening institutional integration among entities that enable Dubai’s business and investment landscape. He reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to fostering a secure, resilient, and sustainable economic ecosystem built on innovation and operational excellence.
Dr. Juma Al Matrooshi, Assistant Secretary General of the Dubai Free Zones Council, stated that the agreement aligns with the Council’s strategy to enhance the contribution of free zones to Dubai’s GDP, strengthen competitiveness, and advance investment incentives in line with D33.
Marwan Hadi, Group Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management at Emirates NBD, highlighted the bank’s longstanding role in supporting business growth and facilitating investment in the UAE. He noted that the partnership contributes to building infrastructure that enhances operational efficiency and reinforces Dubai’s position as a leading global business hub.
Advancing Dubai’s global competitiveness
The MoU reflects a shared vision to develop a more integrated and future-ready business environment, strengthening investor confidence and supporting long-term economic sustainability. By simplifying procedures and enhancing collaboration between regulatory and financial institutions, the initiative aims to consolidate Dubai’s status as one of the world’s most competitive and dynamic economic destinations.
