The groundbreaking ‘One Freezone Passport’ initiative, officially launched by the Dubai Free Zones Council (DFZC) on July 22, 2025, is set to transform Dubai’s business environment. This unified licensing framework eliminates administrative barriers and creates previously unheard-of opportunities for business expansion, enabling companies to operate throughout Dubai’s extensive network of more than 30 free zones.
Without the need for complicated re-incorporation procedures or separate trade licenses, the novel system enables businesses licensed in one Dubai free zone to easily expand operations into other participating free zones. Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33, the emirate’s ambitious strategic plan to double its GDP by 2033 and solidify its position as a global business hub, is perfectly aligned with this initiative.
Understanding the One Freezone Passport Initiative
Businesses’ approach to multi-zone operations in Dubai is radically altered by the One Freezone Passport. Businesses that wanted to open offices in more than one free zone had to navigate the complicated process of acquiring separate licenses for each zone, which required a large time commitment, a lot of paperwork, and hefty financial outlays. Businesses were frequently discouraged from extending their operations across different zones by this conventional approach, which limited their capacity for growth and operational effectiveness.
Businesses can now operate across several jurisdictions within Dubai’s free zone ecosystem by utilizing a single regulatory identity under the new unified system. While significantly lowering administrative complexity, the program preserves all the distinctive benefits of free zone operations, such as 100% foreign ownership, corporate tax exemptions for eligible companies, and simplified regulatory frameworks.
According to Gulf News, the program is “one of the biggest boosters for new businesses planning to launch in the UAE” and is equally helpful for already-existing companies wishing to grow.
Eligibility Criteria and Requirements
While the One Freezone Passport offers extensive benefits, it comes with specific eligibility requirements designed to maintain regulatory integrity:
Eligible Business Types
- Manufacturing companies seeking multi-zone operations
- Trading businesses requiring warehouse and office separation
- Technology companies needing diverse operational bases
- Logistics companies leveraging multiple strategic locations
Restriction Categories
According to KPMG’s analysis, certain business categories are excluded from the initiative:
- Retail operations
- Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs)
- Regulated financial institutions
- Professional service activities seeking warehousing licenses
Compliance Requirements
- Identical Management Structure: The same shareholders, directors, and managers must be retained from the primary license
- Activity Alignment: Business activities must be identical between primary and secondary licenses
- Physical Presence: Virtual, flexi, or hot desk arrangements are not permitted in secondary free zones
- Regulatory Compliance: All participating zones must maintain compliance with their respective regulatory frameworks
Implementation Of One Freezone Passport and Next Steps
Current Phase (2025)
- Available for eligible businesses in participating free zones
- Focus on manufacturing, trading, and technology sectors
- Streamlined application process through DFZC
Future Phases
- Extension to additional business categories
- Integration of mainland licensing options
- Enhanced digital services and automation
- Expansion to cover all 30+ Dubai free zones
How Exentra Solutions Can Help Navigate Your Business Setup Journey
Navigating the challenges of business setup, licensing, and compliance is becoming more and more important for success as Dubai continues to transform its business environment with programs like the One Freezone Passport. This is where Exentra Solutions becomes your reliable partner, providing all-encompassing assistance during the course of starting your business.
Comprehensive Business Setup Services
Exentra Solutions is an expert in UAE business setup services, which include offshore company registration, free zone business setup, and mainland company formation. Whether you’re looking to establish operations in a single zone or take advantage of the new multi-zone opportunities, our knowledgeable staff can help you navigate the One Freezone Passport initiative’s complexities and determine the best course of action for your unique business needs.
Expert Licensing and Documentation Support
We manage all government liaison tasks, license applications, and official submissions with our comprehensive PRO (Public Relations Officer) services. Our staff ensures that your applications are processed effectively and in accordance with all applicable regulations by keeping up with the most recent regulatory changes, including the changing requirements of the One Freezone Passport system.
Document Attestation and Legal Translation
Proper document attestation becomes essential for companies growing under the One Freezone Passport. Exentra Solutions offers a wide range of document attestation services, such as MOFA attestation, embassy services, and attestation for commercial, personal, and educational documents. Our legal translation services guarantee that all of your paperwork satisfies the multilingual specifications needed to conduct business in various free zones.
Ongoing Compliance and Support
Through our PRO services, Exentra Solutions offers continuous assistance after initial setup, managing license renewals, visa processing, and regulatory compliance in all jurisdictions where your company conducts business. This all-inclusive strategy guarantees that you can concentrate on expanding your company while we handle the intricate administrative details.
For businesses wishing to expand or enter one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs, the launch of Dubai’s One Freezone Passport is revolutionary. If businesses receive the proper guidance and support from knowledgeable experts like Exentra Solutions, they can maximize the benefits of this innovative initiative while ensuring full compliance with all regulatory requirements.
