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DUBAI, 23rd February, 2025 (WAM) – H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), today announced that DIEZ has achieved significant financial and operational growth in 2024, further strengthening its role in Dubai's economy and aligning with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. The Authority recorded a 35.5% increase in net profit compared to 2023, underscoring its success in achieving its strategic objectives.
DIEZ also reported an impressive 18.4% growth in revenue and a 7.8% increase in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) in 2024 compared to previous year. These results underscore the growing impact of DIEZ and its affiliated economic zones, including Dubai Airport Freezone, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Dubai CommerCity, in driving the non-oil economy and strengthening Dubai’s commercial ecosystem.

DIEZ also announced a 9% growth in the number of registered companies operating within its economic zones, serving as hubs for their local, regional, and global operations, compared to 2023.
Furthermore, the number of employees in companies registered within DIEZ grew by 21% in 2024 compared to 2023, bringing the total workforce to over 84,000 employees.

H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said: “These exceptional results reflect the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to position Dubai among the world’s top three urban economies by 2033.”
“We believe in the importance of stimulating economic growth through our continued focus on innovation and digital transformation, and these results have proven our success. We remain committed to empowering companies within our economic zones to elevate their competitiveness, ultimately contributing to the strength of Dubai’s economy and consolidating Dubai’s position as a regional and global hub for trade and as an exceptional investment destination,” H.H. added.

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, said: “DIEZ’s growth and achievements across diverse sectors highlight its strength and the successful implementation of its strategy, which is built on sustainability, innovation, and knowledge. These results are not only a product of our continuous efforts, but also a testament to the thriving economic environment in Dubai, which has enabled DIEZ to continue expanding its contributions to the city’s economic prosperity in line with the vision of our leadership”.
“We are also proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our companies, such as Tradeling Holding, which has quadrupled its order volume since 2023, and Oraseya Capital, which was named the most active investor in the UAE for 2024. We are keen to continue providing more innovative solutions to strengthen Dubai’s economy and raise the level of services provided across all sectors,” Al Zarooni added.

In 2024, DIEZ successfully achieved its strategic initiatives, marking a series of significant milestones that have contributed to reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global investment hub, in line with the objectives of D33.
Tradeling Holding, the online B2B marketplace and a subsidiary of DIEZ, made a notable acquisition of the distribution business of Axiom Telecom in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The company also experienced remarkable growth, increasing its order volume fourfold since 2023. Tradeling now serves over 50,000 clients and has shipped approximately 3.5 million units in 2024.
Meanwhile, Oraseya Capital, DIEZ’s investment arm specialising in funding startups from the pre-seed to Series B investment stage, has established itself as a leading force in the investment sector. According to a report by the venture capital data platform MAGNiTT, Oraseya ranked first as the most active investor by number of deals in the UAE for 2024, and the second most active investor by Series-A deals across the MENA region. The company’s impressive achievements also include 24 high-quality investments, with 16 of these made through its Sandbox programme, which is dedicated to funding and supporting early-stage technology startups, while eight were direct investments in high-potential companies.

DIEZ continues to foster a thriving environment across various sectors, demonstrating strong growth across its portfolio of companies. The wholesale and retail sector, which accounts for 30.38% of DIEZ’s total companies, saw a growth of 24%. The professional, scientific, and technical services sector, representing 23.61% of the total companies, experienced a 33% growth. Meanwhile, the information and communication sector, which makes up 18.82% of the companies, also grew by 24%. The financial and insurance sector, representing 10.96%, saw an impressive 35% growth, while the administrative and support services sector, accounting for 5.6% of the total companies, grew by 28%. Additionally, the transportation and storage sector, comprising 2.32% of the total companies, recorded a 33% growth, and other sectors, which together represent 8.3% of the total companies, saw a 126% increase.
DIEZ’s ongoing commitment to providing a supportive and flexible business environment has played a crucial role in driving sustainability and fostering growth across these sectors. The Authority’s efforts are further reflected in its contribution to Dubai’s GDP, which stood at 5.1% according to the latest 2021 statistics, further underscoring DIEZ’s pivotal role in strengthening the local economy and solidifying Dubai’s position as a global business and investment hub.

The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) reported a 35.5 per cent increase in its net profit in 2024, compared to the previous year.
DIEZ also reported an 18.4 per cent rise in revenue and a 7.8 per cent jump in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) in 2024, compared to the previous year.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of DIEZ, said the significant financial and operational growth in 2024 will further strengthen the Authority’s role in Dubai’s economy and align with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

These results underscore the growing impact of DIEZ and its affiliated economic zones, including Dubai Airport Freezone, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Dubai CommerCity, in driving the non-oil economy and strengthening Dubai’s commercial ecosystem, he said.

The Authority also announced a 9 per cent growth in the number of registered companies operating within its economic zones.

The number of employees in companies registered within DIEZ also grew by 21 per cent in 2024 compared to 2023, bringing the total workforce to over 84,000 employees, it said.

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, said the authority’s growth and achievements across diverse sectors highlight its strength and the successful implementation of its strategy, which is built on sustainability, innovation, and knowledge.

“These results are not only a product of our continuous efforts, but also a testament to the thriving economic environment in Dubai, which has enabled DIEZ to continue expanding its contributions to the city’s economic prosperity in line with the vision of our leadership,” he said.

Al Zarooni said the Authority is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of its companies, such as Tradeling Holding, which has quadrupled its order volume since 2023, and Oraseya Capital, which was named the most active investor in the UAE for 2024.

DUBAI, 26th June, 2024 (WAM) -- The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) and Aramex today commenced with pilot testing of Aramex’s pioneering autonomous robot delivery system at Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), the special economic zone for knowledge and innovation and a member of DIEZ.

The initiative marks a significant step towards the integration of sustainable autonomous delivery vehicles within the urban fabric of Dubai, in line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, and represents a pivotal step in the realisation of Dubai’s vision to convert 25 percent of its transportation system to autonomous mode by 2030.

The pilot phase testing, scheduled to run for three months, is set to achieve full operational status by September. Initially, it will cover the Cedre Villas community in Dubai Silicon Oasis. This phase introduces a state-of-the-art multi-cabin delivery robot, a significant upgrade from previous single-cabin bot deployments.

With the capability to make multiple deliveries per trip, it enhances operational efficiency and is projected to reduce carbon emissions by over 500 kilograms during its three-month tenure. Moreover, the robot is expected to autonomously deliver over 1,000 packages to customers within the Cedre Villas community. Anticipating future expansions, DIEZ plans to expand this initiative to encompass its other economic zones, including the Dubai Airport Freezone and Dubai CommerCity.

Muammar Khaled Al Katheeri, Chief Officer of Engineering and Sustainability at DIEZ, said, “Our collaboration with Aramex underscores our dedication to advancing innovative solutions that enhance sustainable urban development in Dubai, aligning with the objectives of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. By introducing carbon-neutral delivery robots at DSO, as part of our Smart City Strategy’s focus on smart mobility, we are showcasing our dedication to incorporating advanced technology for a greener future. This initiative not only demonstrates our leadership in nurturing an innovative, safe, and sustainable ecosystem but also signals the start of a new era in logistics solutions. It’s a stride towards enriching the urban living standards of Dubai’s residents and businesses, promising a brighter, more sustainable future.”

Tarek Abuyaghi, General Manager of Aramex, added, “We are thrilled to partner with DIEZ for this groundbreaking initiative, which enhances our last-mile delivery services. Our commitment to operating smart, efficient, and customer-friendly services is unwavering, with innovation at its core—driving us to continuously improve efficiency and prioritise environmental sustainability. This initiative reflects our proactive, integrated, and stakeholder-centric approach, guiding everything we do. We are excited to make a positive impact on the environment while enhancing the urban living experience. We thank DIEZ for their partnership and look forward to offer residents the opportunity to experience future-centric delivery services.”

Residents expecting Aramex packages will be provided with a secure pin code to access their deliveries, ensuring safety and security. Additionally, the operation will be bolstered by a mobile outlet stationed at Cedre Shopping Centre to facilitate continuous loading and unloading, as well as the monitoring of all bot operations.

The delivery bot is outfitted with advanced technologies such as a depth camera, multiple human-bot interface elements, and extensive 360-degree video coverage, ensuring optimal performance in both indoor and outdoor environments. Its design, which includes a swappable battery pack and eight compartments for different parcel sizes, demonstrates a dedication to solving the logistical demands of today’s urban living.

DUBAI,16th September, 2024 (WAM) -- Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ), a member of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), has announced a strategic partnership with the 2024 edition of Red Bull Basement.

This partnership aligns with the free zone’s commitment to elevating UAE innovators' positioning on a global stage.

The initiative empowers the next generation of innovators to conceive, develop, and launch their groundbreaking ideas, accelerated by AI technology. Each team that applies will have the opportunity to create its own business plan.

DAFZ will provide direct support to the teams participating in the event by awarding the first- and second-place winners membership in "Scality," DAFZ's unique, innovative startup programme, which enables them to establish and grow their businesses in the region.

Additionally, the winning teams will secure a spot in "SANDBOX," DIEZ’s accelerator programme dedicated to fostering tech startups, which is part of Oraseya Capital, the venture capital investment arm of the Authority. The first-place team will also have the opportunity to receive investment for their project.

This initiative underscores DAFZ's commitment to nurturing innovative businesses and projects in the UAE, reinforcing its role as a key player in creating a supportive environment for successful ventures.

The national winners from the UAE will be invited to an immersive World Final in Tokyo, Japan. The application window is open until October 25, 2024.
Commenting on the partnership, Arif Al Khouri, Senior Vice President of Customer Care at DAFZ, said: “This initiative aligns with DAFZ's mission to support and nurture young talents and innovators, encouraging them to adopt the latest technological and smart solutions. Through this partnership, we are taking a significant step to reinforce our goals of empowering entrepreneurs, enhancing the investment ecosystem, and supporting companies and projects of all types and sizes, while strengthening Dubai’s status as a hub for creative talent and a global capital for innovation and investment.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Red Bull Basement for this transformative initiative. We believe the youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow, and this event provides a unique platform for young innovators to bring their ideas to life. We look forward to witnessing the revolutionary ideas that will emerge and remain committed to supporting future leaders in turning their ideas into successful ventures," Al Khouri added.

Through this year’s instalment of Red Bull Basement, a new wave of innovators will leverage AI to create a business plan, find opportunities, identify and prioritise potential growth areas, and enable their state-of-the-art ideas.

From September 1 through October 25, one- or two-member teams of students and innovators from the UAE can visit the Red Bull Basement website [https://www.redbull.com/mea-en/events/red-bull-basement-uae], where the easy-to-use AI tool will help them to create and submit a one-page business plan as their application. A panel of local judges will select the top teams for the national final, with the winner representing the UAE at December’s Global Final.

From November 12 through December 1, the national-winning teams will unlock resources, including the chance to collaborate with mentors and experts, as well as AI technology, to further develop their business plan and evolve their ideas toward readiness as a business start-up.

From December 2 through December 5, the World Final will bring together finalists from 40 countries for an immersive event in Tokyo. Featuring workshops, a dedicated AI session, and networking with international entrepreneurs, visionaries and business leaders, the World Final will culminate with in the announcement of the global winner of Red Bull Basement 2024.

Red Bull Basement 2024 is collaborating with Microsoft, AMD, Dubai Airport Freezone and DIFC Innovation Hub for its sixth edition, focusing strongly on AI technologies to deliver the best possible experience. The Red Bull Basement Chatbot, powered by Microsoft, will use Azure OpenAI Service and AMD Instinct accelerators to assist teams to develop ideas and create business plans.

DUBAI, 30th October, 2024 (WAM) -- The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has launched its strategic human resources (HR) plan for 2024-2026, marking a significant milestone in DIEZ’s journey to develop a comprehensive HR system. This system aims to create a work environment that enhances the performance of human resources and talents within DIEZ and its affiliated economic zones, thereby increasing employee loyalty and retention.

This HR strategic plan aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to advance government operations and systems and improve the quality of life, positioning Dubai among the top three cities globally in terms of living standards.

The strategic plan is built on five main pillars: investing in staff, developing an optimal work environment, increasing levels of Emiratisation, adopting the most effective and advanced systems, and leveraging human resources as business developers. This step aims to accelerate operations, support clients, enhance economic savings, and adopt modern technologies, fostering a positive, constructive, and flexible work environment that meets the demands of future jobs.

Yousuf Behzad, Chief People and Organisational Development Officer at DIEZ, said, “DIEZ is committed to adopting various plans and strategies to enhance and sustain a flexible work environment within the Authority and its affiliated economic zones. This involves identifying human resources requirements, especially in light of the increasing reliance on AI technologies, ensuring we anticipate and meet the demands of future jobs. Implementing advanced technologies such as AI is a top priority for our human resources department, as it aims to improve the quality, speed, and efficiency of government services. Additionally, this enables UAE talents to achieve their full potential in various fields through ongoing support, training programmes, and qualifications.”

“With the launch of this strategic plan, which aligns with the objectives of Dubai’s Quality of Life Strategy for 2033, approved by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, we aim to achieve new levels of employee satisfaction at DIEZ. This will be accomplished by adopting innovative concepts in government innovation to develop human capital and encourage both national talents and global innovators. This approach reinforces workplace and community well-being, ensures professional and personal development, and enhances the authority's and its economic zones' position among the best workplaces in the UAE, particularly in Dubai. Ultimately, we support the vision of making Dubai a global city of innovation and creativity,” Behzad added.

DIEZ is committed to increasing Emiratisation rates within the authority and its economic zones as part of its strategic priority to develop a robust human resources ecosystem. The authority aims to achieve several key objectives in this area, particularly by preparing UAE nationals for leadership and senior roles, which currently boast an Emiratisation rate of 88 percent.

Dubai’s strategic location, coupled with its world-class infrastructure, business-friendly policies, and stable economy, has made it a highly attractive destination for global investors. Its tax-advantaged environment and proximity to both Eastern and Western markets offer numerous advantages.

The global hub for business and tourism unveiled an ambitious $8.7tn (Dhs32tn) economic plan in January. Dubbed the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), the initiative seeks to solidify the emirate’s status as a strategic economic gateway by doubling foreign trade and investment over the next decade.

Dubai, home to more than 28 economic free zones, has embarked on reforms to enhance economic competitiveness, GDP growth, and stability while promoting economic diversity.

The economic free zones have significantly contributed to growth and entrepreneurship by creating a favourable business environment. To strengthen Dubai’s position as a global economic hub and attract more investments, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, created the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) in 2021, consolidating and integrating the products and services of Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ), Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), and Dubai CommerCity, a joint venture between DIEZ and Al Wasl Properties.

His excellency Dr Mohammed Al Zarooni, executive chairman of DIEZ, emphasises that the three economic free zones play a crucial role in diversifying the economy, fostering innovation, and boosting growth, which aligns with the D33 initiative.

“The DIEZ plays a strategic role in the realisation of the D33, which aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy over the next decade. DIEZ’s three integrated economic zones – Dubai Airport Freezone, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Dubai CommerCity – are key contributors toward this agenda and play a unique role in consolidating Dubai’s position among the top three economic cities in the world,” says Al Zarooni.

While DAFZ offers seamless global connectivity, thanks to its strategic location adjacent to Dubai International Airport (DXB), DSO has been instrumental in driving innovation in the emirate as the Dubai CommerCity is positioning the city as a global hub for digital commerce and supporting the region’s growing e-commerce market.

“Since its establishment in 2021, DIEZ has significantly evolved to align with the Dubai Economic Agenda. We have launched several initiatives, including Oraseya Capital, which is our venture capital arm, to support startups and SMEs,” explains Al Zarooni.

“Our focus has expanded to include the integration of AI and smart city solutions, further enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability. These efforts have solidified DIEZ’s role as a key player in Dubai’s economic landscape, driving innovation, economic diversification, and sustainable growth.”

Historically, oil exploration and production have been the cornerstones of GCC economies. However, the region is now actively diversifying its economy and exploring new growth avenues beyond its traditional reliance on fossil fuels.

Among the GCC region’s oil-producing states, Dubai stands out as the most successful in diversifying its economy. Since the 1970s, the emirate has made significant strides in transforming itself into a thriving global hub with a promising economic future. “By fostering a business-friendly ecosystem and continuously improving our services, we ensure that Dubai remains an attractive destination for global investors, thereby boosting the emirate’s investment attractiveness,” says Al Zarooni.

DUBAI, 30th January, 2024 (WAM) -- H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), has approved the Authority’s new strategy for 2024-2026.

The plan will further strengthen DIEZ’s mandate to promote Dubai’s standing as a leading regional and international destination for investment across various categories, thus contributing to the realisation of the emirate’s strategic priorities with respect to integrated economic zones.

DIEZ, established in 2021, aims to play a vital role in promoting economic growth in the emirate over the next three years. The Authority seeks to follow an economic roadmap aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, supporting the D33’s ambitious vision for achieving sustainability, creating a vibrant market characterised by an array of investment opportunities, and promoting a future-ready business-friendly environment capable of adapting to changes and trends in diverse sectors.

DIEZ's ‘purpose’ highlights its commitment to “enable businesses, enhance lives, and foster a vibrant economy”. At the same time, its ‘aspiration’ aims to “open a new world of infinite economic opportunities” based on a set of core institutional values including ‘togetherness’, a ‘passion’ to make a difference, ‘affinity’ through cultivating relationships, ‘customer success’ and a futuristic vision by encouraging forward-thinking and retaining an innovative mindset.

Ahmed bin Saeed said, “The DIEZ 2024-2026 strategy is a testament to our commitment to realising the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. It also aligns with the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. Our aim is to enhance economic performance and sustainable growth, driven by knowledge and innovation, ultimately contributing to making Dubai the best city in the world.

“The new DIEZ strategy is built on an integrated framework based on careful planning that aims to improve the quality of services provided to businesses, investors, and companies from all sectors and of all sizes. Our objective is to enhance the vital role of free zones as a major contributor to the local and national economy. This reinforces our commitment to strengthening Dubai’s position and that of the UAE as a global partner and an attractive, influential economic hub. These efforts are carried out in accordance with national directives and plans, in cooperation with our partners from the public and private sectors,” he added.

The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has launched its strategic human resources (HR) plan for 2024-2026, marking a significant milestone in DIEZ’s journey to develop a comprehensive HR system. This system aims to create a work environment that enhances the performance of human resources and talents within DIEZ and its affiliated economic zones, thereby increasing employee loyalty and retention.

This HR strategic plan aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to advance government operations and systems and improve the quality of life, positioning Dubai among the top three cities globally in terms of living standards.

The strategic plan is built on five main pillars: investing in staff, developing an optimal work environment, increasing levels of Emiratization, adopting the most effective and advanced systems, and leveraging human resources as business developers. This step aims to accelerate operations, support clients, enhance economic savings, and adopt modern technologies, fostering a positive, constructive, and flexible work environment that meets the demands of future jobs.

Yousuf Behzad, Chief People & Organizational Development Officer at DIEZ, said: “DIEZ is committed to adopting various plans and strategies to enhance and sustain a flexible work environment within the Authority and its affiliated economic zones. This involves identifying human resources requirements, especially in light of the increasing reliance on AI technologies, ensuring we anticipate and meet the demands of future jobs. Implementing advanced technologies such as AI is a top priority for our human resources department, as it aims to improve the quality, speed, and efficiency of government services. Additionally, this enables UAE talents to achieve their full potential in various fields through ongoing support, training programs, and qualifications.”

DUBAI, 10th September, 2024 (WAM) – H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), announced the operational and financial results of DIEZ for the first half of 2024. Driven by high occupancy rates and solid performance across all business sectors, the results reflect remarkable growth in key strategic indicators, strengthening the position of the Authority and its economic zones – the Dubai Airport Freezone, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Dubai CommerCity – at the heart of Dubai’s commercial landscape and non-oil economy.

The results show that DIEZ achieved a growth of 18 percent in net profit, 12 percent in total revenue, and 7 percent in operating profit in the first half of 2024, as compared to the results announced at the end of 2023. These results illustrate DIEZ’s steady and sustainable growth outlook.
These figures also coincide with the growth in the number of registered companies, encompassing local, regional, and global markets, operating within the DIEZ economic zones. The total number of such companies marked a 4 percent increase compared to the end of 2023. Additionally, these companies now employ over 78,000 specialised employees, reflecting a 12 percent growth from the previous year.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum noted: “The results of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority’s operational performance for the first half of this year clearly demonstrate its commitment to the ongoing development of its economic zones. This aligns with Dubai’s efforts to be a trendsetter in various sectors, including the free economic zones sector, in accordance with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.”

Sheikh Ahmed added: “These positive indicators reaffirm DIEZ’s commitment to enhancing Dubai's esteemed and expanding role as a central hub in global trade and an attractive investment destination. Our comprehensive and integrated economic model, known for its exceptional flexibility and attractive incentives, offers companies robust opportunities for establishing, developing, and sustaining their businesses. This aligns with our goal to amplify the contribution of DIEZ’s economic zones towards achieving the objectives of Dubai's Foreign Direct Investment Development Program and supporting the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai among the top three urban economies globally.
Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, said, “DIEZ’s impressive results are a natural outcome of the wise and ambitious economic policies pursued by the emirate of Dubai. The vision and guidance of our leadership has always helped us uncover promising new opportunities with an emphasis on future foresight and being the best in various vital sectors while providing abundant incentives and attractive benefits.”