Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), has approved a strategy to establish a Global Centre for Research and Technology for Economic Zones, the Government of Dubai Media Office said on Sunday.
The center will operate under DIEZ, which runs three economic zones in Dubai.
It will develop research, policies and common standards for economic zones, and work to harmonize classifications and operating models, according to the statement.
DIEZ said the center’s aim is to help economic zones attract high-value foreign investment, raise the value added by their activities and expand trade and technology transfer.
Its economic impact will be tracked through indicators covering investment attracted, new projects, jobs, trade growth and the transfer of knowledge and technology.
Mohammed Al Zarooni, executive chairman of DIEZ, said the center would be built through a phased roadmap. It will start by developing research and consultancy capabilities, specialized databases and benchmark indicators.
It also plans partnerships with international institutions, governments, universities, research centers and the private sector, he said.
The statement cited United Nations Conference on Trade and Development data showing more than 8,000 special economic zones operating in over 140 countries, supporting more than 100 million jobs.
The statement did not give a budget or a launch date for the center.
DIEZ said the project supports the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to place the emirate among the world’s top three economic hubs.
