Dubai International Financial Centre and Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority sign agreement to establish a dual-zone operating framework for companies

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and DP World’s Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (Jafza) have signed an agreement to establish a framework that promotes dual-zone operations for companies seeking to expand their financial, industrial and corporate structuring presence in Dubai. The initiative links Jafza’s trade and industrial ecosystem with DIFC’s legal, financial and structuring platform, and is positioned as supporting the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). The integrated model is designed to let businesses structure capital, access financial services and plan long-term legacy through DIFC while manufacturing, storing and distributing goods through Jafza. The release highlights DIFC vehicles for holding structures, family offices and foundations to support governance, succession and cross-border investments, alongside access to financial institutions, private banks and investment advisory services, while Jafza provides manufacturing and logistics infrastructure, duty exemptions and multimodal connectivity through Jebel Ali Port. Jafza and DIFC will roll out coordinated investor engagement initiatives, including roadshows, webinars and case studies, to promote the dual-zone model and provide tailored support for prospective businesses.