Dubai economic zones show strong growth in first half of 2026

The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) reported strong growth momentum in the first half of 2026, fueled by consistent demand for its infrastructure and facilities. This performance highlights the robustness of DIEZ's business environment and its capacity to foster expansion, attract investment, and adapt to evolving market needs, contributing to Dubai's global standing as a hub for business and innovation.

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The results achieved by DIEZ during the first half of 2026 reflect the resilience of its economic model and its ability to sustain growth amid the rapid transformations within the global economy.

DIEZ's three main economic zones, Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ), Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), and Dubai CommerCity, achieved a 96% occupancy rate during the first half of the year. This high occupancy reflects sustained demand for the zones' facilities, infrastructure, and services. The number of companies operating within DIEZ's zones increased by 13% compared to the same period in 2025, while the workforce expanded by 24%, indicating significant business expansion across the authority's economic areas.

Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of DIEZ, stated that the results demonstrate the resilience of DIEZ's economic model and its ability to sustain growth amidst global economic transformations. He emphasized the continued confidence of companies and investors in Dubai's competitive business environment. He added that the growth in companies and employees underscores Dubai's capacity to support business expansion, create opportunities, and attract high-value investment, thereby enhancing DIEZ's contribution to Dubai's competitiveness.

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The increase in the number of companies and employees within DIEZ economic zones reflects the emirate’s ability to support businesses as they expand and create new opportunities and attract high-value investment, underscoring DIEZ’s contribution to Dubai’s competitiveness and its growing appeal to global companies and investors.

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, noted that the authority's performance validates its strategy of building an integrated economic ecosystem that meets the dynamic needs of the business community. He highlighted that the 96% occupancy rate, coupled with growth in company numbers and employees, signifies strong market demand and successful business operations within the zones. These achievements align with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, aiming to strengthen Dubai's position among the world's top three urban economies.

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DIEZ’s performance during the first half of the year demonstrates the success of our approach to building an integrated economic ecosystem that responds to the evolving needs of the business community while supporting companies at different stages of their growth, from establishment and expansion through to investment and innovation.