Dubai establishes Global Centre to shape the future of economic zones
A new institution will draw on Dubai's expertise in integrated zone development to establish international standards, conduct research and support economic growth across the world's 8,000 special economic zones.
Economic zones have transformed from simple trade facilitators into specialised ecosystems that attract high-value investment, drive innovation and anchor companies into global value chains. With more than 8,000 such zones now operating across over 140 countries and supporting more than 100 million jobs worldwide, the need for a coherent global framework has become acute. Dubai, which has long cultivated expertise in developing and managing integrated zones, is responding to this challenge through a new institutional platform.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority, has approved the establishment of the Global Centre for Research and Technology for Economic Zones. Operating under the authority, the Centre will serve as a reference point for governments, zone operators, investors and international organisations seeking to strengthen the performance and competitiveness of these ecosystems.
The Centre will operate across six interconnected areas of focus. It will conduct specialised research and studies on economic zones and anticipate the economic, trade and technological developments that will shape their evolution. It will develop specialised databases, international indicators, classifications and benchmarks to help stakeholders assess performance and evaluate investment opportunities with precision. A dedicated policy division will provide advice on legislation and institutional frameworks, support regulatory sandboxes and help zones respond to changing global conditions.
Operationally, the Centre will develop standards and publish practical guidelines to promote efficiency and consistency across the global zones ecosystem. It will offer consultancy services in strategic planning and provide executive training and capacity-building programmes. Equally important, it will establish platforms connecting governments, zone authorities, investors, experts and research institutions worldwide, facilitating knowledge exchange and the development of advanced operating models.
The Centre’s work will be guided by six core values: independence, credibility, integrity, excellence, innovation and collaborative leadership. Its governance structure comprises a Board of Directors with expertise in economic policy and zone management, alongside a Global Advisory Committee of between 15 and 25 members drawn from policymakers, international institutions, the private sector and the investment community.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum observed that Dubai’s integrated economic model is built on trust, innovation, openness and global partnerships. The Centre, he said, represents a strategic step in enhancing Dubai’s contribution to shaping the future of economic zones and strengthening their role as enablers of investment, trade, innovation and economic growth. Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of the authority, added that the Centre will translate Dubai’s extensive experience into an institutional framework for knowledge creation, developing solutions, standards and operational practices that respond to the evolving needs of economic zones.
The Centre’s financial model distinguishes between non-profit institutional activities focused on foundational research, knowledge creation and thought leadership, and a commercial arm providing consultancy services. This structure ensures that the institution can maintain independence and focus on international public good whilst maintaining financial sustainability.
What it means for Abu Dhabi
The Centre represents a broader strategic alignment within the UAE to position itself as a global knowledge leader and institutional reference point. As the country pursues the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to establish Dubai among the world’s top three economic hubs, and the ‘We the UAE 2031’ Vision, this new platform will strengthen the UAE’s economic stature and competitiveness internationally. By formalising and codifying Dubai’s expertise in zone development and management, the Centre extends the economic benefits of the emirate’s success to the broader global economy, deepening partnerships and opening new opportunities for collaboration.
For Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE, the establishment of the Centre signals the nation’s commitment to shaping international economic frameworks and standards. It reinforces the UAE’s position as a nexus for innovation, knowledge exchange and sustainable economic development, supporting the country’s broader vision of regional leadership and international cooperation in economic affairs.
Source: WAM, 25 October 2026