Dubai is allowing Free Zone companies to operate on the mainland under new branch and temporary permit rules.
The Dubai Executive Council has issued Resolution No. (11) of 2025 on 9 October 2025, establishing a regulatory framework that allows Free Zone companies to carry out business activities outside their designated Free Zone areas within the Emirate of Dubai.
The Resolution is directed at non-financial entities and seeks to provide greater operational flexibility while ensuring compliance with existing laws.
Under the new rules, Free Zone companies can expand to the mainland by securing either a branch license or a temporary permit. Branch licenses, which can be used to establish a branch within the Emirate or operate directly from the Free Zone, are valid for one year and can be renewed. Temporary permits allow companies to conduct specific activities for a period of up to six months.
The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) will manage the licensing process and is expected to publish a list of qualifying economic activities in due course.
Companies operating on the mainland must maintain separate financial records for these activities, comply with applicable fees, and adhere to all other requirements set out by the Resolution.
Existing Free Zone entities are required to comply with the new provisions within one year of the Resolution’s effective date.
