Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), said the authority's strong performance during the first half of 2026 reflects the strength of its integrated economic model and its continued contribution to Dubai's economy.In a post on the social media platform X, Sheikh Ahmed said DIEZ continues to build an integrated investment ecosystem that supports business growth, strengthens Dubai's economic competitiveness and advances the emirate's long-term development ambitions, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.He added that these efforts reinforce Dubai's position among the world's top three economic cities and strengthen its standing as a global hub for business and investment.According to the figures shared by Sheikh Ahmed, the number of companies operating across DIEZ's economic zones increased by 13% year-on-year during the first half of 2026, while employment grew by 24%. Occupancy rates across the authority's economic zones reached 96%. The results also highlighted strong investment activity by Oraseya Capital, DIEZ's venture capital arm, which invested in 15 startups during the first half of 2026. The value of its investments increased by 25% compared with the first half of 2025.Oraseya Capital was also recognised as one of the UAE's most active investors for the third consecutive year, underscoring its role in supporting startups, innovation and emerging sectors of the economy.DIEZ reported a 95% increase in the number of technology companies and a 57% rise in startup registrations, reflecting continued growth in the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.As part of its commitment to the future economy, investments in the District 11 project have reached AED11 billion. The project is focused on supporting future technologies and strengthening research, development and innovation.DIEZ oversees Dubai Airport Freezone, Dubai Silicon Oasis and Dubai CommerCity, and plays a key role in enhancing Dubai's attractiveness to international investors and companies while supporting the emirate's transition towards a knowledge-based, technology-driven and innovation-led economy.
