Dubai has recently relaxed the eligibility criteria for its two‑year property-linked residency visa as part of a broader effort to attract foreign investment and expand access to residency.

On 30 March 2026, the Executive Council of Dubai approved a series of initiatives empowering individuals and society, promoting trade and investment, enhancing means of measuring economic performance, and safeguarding the workforce. The AED 1 billion package took effect on 1 April 2026 and runs for three to six months, depending on the measure.

Designed to attract international business and innovation, Free Zones operate under distinct legal and commercial frameworks that differentiate them from the UAE mainland. While they continue to play a key role in the country’s economic landscape, the introduction of a federal corporate tax regime in 2023 has reshaped how businesses need to evaluate Free Zone structures, manage tax exposure, and ensure ongoing compliance with regulatory requirements.