Volume # 04 | April, 2018

UAE Freezones Biz News Updates

Dafza sees 25% growth in registered businesses in 2017

The Dubai Airport Freezone Authority witnessed a 13 per cent growth in the number of registered MNCs last year. There was a 27 per cent increase in the number of registered SMEs.

Dafza also saw a 7 per cent contribution to Dubai's non-oil trade

The Dubai Airport Freezone Authority (Dafza) has announced a 25 per cent growth in its registered companies in 2017, compared to the same period last year.

The new tenants' revenue contributed 8 per cent of the total rental revenue for 2017. Dafza also saw a 7 per cent contribution to Dubai's non-oil trade, representing 18 per cent of total free zones' trade within Dubai.

The freezone's success is largely due to its strategic role in driving economic development and high operational efficiency, as well as the creation of attractive investment opportunities.

Dafza has increased its leasable area by 6 per cent compared to the same period of the previous year. This was due to the increasing demand of the freezone's business solutions and its product line-up which were adapted to the requirements of the global markets to expand their businesses in the Middle East, Africa and Central Asia and explore their investment opportunities in Dubai.

There was a 34 per cent increase in registered companies within the office package segment offered by Dafza compared to same period last year. This was launched by Dafza following a comprehensive study and research that identified the needs of customers in order to ensure the strategic growth plans of the freezone.

Financial results showed an increase in total assets by 2 per cent and an increase in licensing revenues by 16 per cent. Dafza's services, which include licences, government services and other value-added services to customers, accounted for 18 per cent of 2017 total revenues.

Last year also witnessed a 13 per cent growth in the number of registered multinational companies (MNCs). With this increase, MNCs now make up 36 per cent of the total number of companies in the freezone. As part of Dafza's commitment to supporting the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), 2017 witnessed a 27 per cent increase in the number of registered SMEs compared to the same period the year before.

The achievements of Dafza in 2017 underscore its outstanding position as one of the most advanced and progressive freezones in the world, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of Dafza, said. The results highlight Dafza's role in supporting the UAE's economic diversification strategy and enhancing the investment and trade movement in Dubai and the nation as a whole. This strategy falls in line with the Dubai 2021 Plan and the government's plans to move into the post-oil phase, backed by the support of commercial diversification policies led by the vision of the UAE's wise leadership.

In 2017, Dafza officially launched its first industrial expansion project outside its current location. Dafza Industrial Park is located in Al Qusais Industrial Area and features modern industrial units supported by unique customs experience. Dafza cooperated with Dubai Customs to make this industrial park the first zone with smart security and customs services.

March 4, 2018

Free Zones Of UAE

Volume # 04 | April, 2018

UAE Freezones Biz News Updates

Courtesy Khaleej Times.

Emirates Of UAE

Business

UAE Offshore