Jafza and DIFC launch dual-zone operations framework

On 28 October 2025, Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (Jafza) and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) announced the signing of a new strategic framework designed to enable dual-zone operations for companies seeking to expand their financial, industrial, and corporate structuring activities within Dubai.

The initiative seeks to connect Jafza’s trade and industrial ecosystem with DIFC’s advanced legal and financial platform, creating a seamless pathway for businesses to set up, operate, and scale across both jurisdictions.

This development aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) for the UAE to become a global hub for trade, finance, and innovation.

The dual-zone framework introduces a more integrated approach to business expansion in Dubai, reducing administrative complexity for companies operating across financial and industrial activities.

By enabling a structured link between the financial, legal, and governance framework in DIFC and the manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution capabilities in Jafza, businesses benefit from:

• Reduced setup timelines
• More efficient regulatory processes
• Improved access to financial services and trade infrastructure
• Greater flexibility in long-term strategic planning

For multinational corporations, family businesses, and investment groups, the ability to coordinate financial decision-making with rapid industrial deployment translates into:

• Consolidated structuring options for capital, finance, and succession planning
• Enhanced trade and logistics solutions within a unified operational model

This integrated ecosystem supports companies in accelerating expansion while maintaining compliance and operational resilience across both zones.

Considerations for investors and business owners

Investors and business owners may wish to consider opportunities presented by the dual-zone framework, including:

• Consolidating financial structuring and operational activities under one integrated model
• Leveraging DIFC vehicles for corporate finance, governance, and asset holding
• Utilizing manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution infrastructure in Jafza
• Accessing enhanced trade finance options and multimodal logistics channels
• Identifying cross-zone efficiencies that support long-term growth and expansion

Eligibility considerations

• Activities must align with both jurisdictions’ regulatory and licensing requirements
• Entities must comply with each zone’s governance and reporting rules
• Financial and industrial activities may require coordinated approvals

We will continue monitoring developments as further guidance becomes available. Organizations seeking to establish or expand operations through the Jafza–DIFC dual-zone framework and requiring assistance with regulatory procedures are encouraged to contact a member of KPMG’s Regulatory Services team in the UAE.