The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has signed a strategic partnership with the German–Emirati Joint Council for Industry and Commerce (AHK) to strengthen investment ties and support the expansion of German companies in Dubai.
The agreement, signed at Dubai CommerCity, aims to attract German businesses to DIEZ’s economic zones, which include Dubai Airport Freezone, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Dubai CommerCity. The collaboration will focus on key sectors such as Industry 4.0, sustainability, smart manufacturing, and digital trade.
Amna Lootah, Director General of Dubai Airport Freezone and Dubai CommerCity, said the deal builds on a strong economic relationship that saw non-oil trade between the UAE and Germany reach Dh50.68 billion ($13.8 billion) in 2024, a 5.4% increase from the previous year.
“This partnership lays the foundation for a new phase of growth and expansion for German companies, focusing on future industries, trade, logistics, and technology,” Lootah stated. She added that the initiative aligns with Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33, which seeks to double the size of the city’s economy.
Sybille Pfaff, Consul General of Germany in Dubai, described the partnership as a significant step in innovation-driven collaboration. “Germany and the UAE share a strong economic relationship, and this initiative will elevate our cooperation to new heights in innovation and technology,” she said. “Dubai represents an ideal platform for German companies looking to expand regionally.”
New Support for German Businesses
The agreement establishes several new mechanisms to streamline operations for German firms in Dubai. A dedicated “German Desk” will be created to assist with company setup, onboarding, and ongoing support.
For logistics and trade, a “Fast Lane” will be introduced for German exporters and cargo passing through Dubai Airport Freezone, offering simplified customs and trade facilitation.
A joint industrial innovation platform will be launched to concentrate on Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing. This includes a new innovation hub at Dubai Silicon Oasis for developing pilot projects. E-commerce and logistics firms will be offered incentive packages through Dubai CommerCity, while startups will receive support via Oraseya Capital and Wadi.AI.
Dr. Martin Henkelmann, CEO of AHK, said the agreement provides German businesses with easier access to Dubai’s commercial ecosystem. “This collaboration presents a unique opportunity for German companies to strengthen their presence in Dubai and the region by leveraging DIEZ’s advanced infrastructure and innovation-focused environment,” he remarked.
The partnership builds on an existing foundation, with more than 200 German companies, including Airbus, DHL, Porsche, and Audi VW, already operating within DIEZ’s zones. Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, said the new framework will further integrate German innovation with Dubai’s knowledge-based economy.