Dubai is set to host the 10th edition of the annual World Free Zones Organization (World FZO) World Congress from September 23 to 25, 2024, at Madinat Jumeirah. This year’s congress, held under the theme ‘Zones and the Shifting Global Economic Structures – Unlocking New Investment Avenues,’ will focus on key global priorities within the free zones sector.
Marking the 10th anniversary of the World Free Zones Organization, the event will be hosted in Dubai for the second consecutive year and the fifth time overall since its inception. The previous edition was one of the largest in the organization’s history, significantly contributing to its ongoing success.
Global Participation and Strategic Importance
The 10th edition of the World FZO World Congress will bring together representatives from economic zones worldwide, reflecting the organization’s commitment to advancing the vital role of these zones in global trade. Currently, more than a third of global trade flows through economic zones, which are crucial in supporting national economies, facilitating trade exchanges, driving the digital economy, attracting foreign investments, and supporting various other economic sectors.
This year’s congress is expected to attract representatives from over 100 countries, including more than 2,000 global and regional business leaders, free zone officials, and experts in the free zone, logistics services, and multilateral organization sectors. A diverse group of investors, entrepreneurs, academics, and representatives from government entities and major companies involved in these sectors are also anticipated to participate.
His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Chairman of the World Free Zones Organization, highlighted the significance of hosting the event in Dubai: “Hosting the 10th World FZO World Congress reflects Dubai’s commitment to actively contributing to the development of the global system of economic zones, which serve as the backbone of international trade in our current era. This aligns with the Emirate’s drive to double its foreign trade to reach AED 25 trillion and its goal to establish trade corridors with 400 new cities worldwide by 2033, in accordance with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and its ambitious targets.”
Dr. Al Zarooni also emphasized the congress’s alignment with the UAE’s long-term vision, particularly the UAE Centennial 2071, which aims to position the nation as a global economic hub within major economic groups. He noted that the event’s strategic importance supports efforts to achieve sustainable economic development, build and strengthen trade relations, and establish partnerships between economic zones in member countries of the World FZO.
The congress will expand its focus to include modern economic sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and advanced technology. This supports the development of national economies based on knowledge and innovation, contributing to comprehensive growth and prosperity in the global economy.
In-Depth Discussions and Future Visions
The event in Dubai provides a renewed opportunity to present in-depth visions and anticipate the future of the economic zones sector globally. It will foster constructive discussions among stakeholders on ways to facilitate business, connect markets, and provide cost-effective solutions to customers. These efforts align with the World FZO’s mission to elevate the sector, keep pace with global developments, and encourage the adoption of best practices, legislation, and policies.
By leveraging emerging trends and innovations, economic zones can attract companies and investors, offering them competitive advantages while exchanging information and knowledge. This approach supports the sector’s role in economic and social development, enhancing the sustainability, flexibility, and prosperity of global trade.
Growing Membership and Global Impact
Since its establishment a decade ago, the World Free Zones Organization has grown its membership to over 1,600 members from 141 countries, supported by 12 regional offices and 42 national focal points worldwide. The organization’s role continues to expand as free zones increasingly rely on its contributions, services, and strategic partnerships. The growth of free zones in terms of number, size, and importance in the global value chain has been significant, with diversification into sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, financial technology, healthcare, and digital commerce.
The World FZO remains committed to strengthening and expanding its membership base while providing high-quality, diverse services to its members. The organization fosters constructive dialogue among all parties, creating opportunities for cooperation to promote global economic growth and prosperity through the free zone model.
