Special Economic Zones in the OIC Region:
Learning from Experience
44
goods and services through the port. One of the most successful examples of this is Jebel Ali FTZ
in the UAE.
Box 13 - Jebel Ali Free Zone 47
Distance from Nearest Airport
Proximity to an airport is another key success factor for economic zones worldwide. Airports
not only provide zones with linkages to domestic and international markets, but also act as hubs
for global supplier networks. The role of airports in catalysing industrial activity and enabling
value chains is considered crucial in the development of zones.
Airports can have a symbiotic relationship with economic zones and industrial clusters by
having a positive impact on the effectiveness and operational efficiency of industries served. In
turn, industries can help boost airports’ performance by enhancing asset utilisation. Key
transport infrastructures such as airports and ports also add to the business attractiveness of a
region, thereby making them more competitive.
47 Jing & Yong (2014) The Successful Operation of Dubai Jebel Ali FTZ on Shanghai FTZ Development Enlightenment.
Jebel Ali Free Zone – Strategic Port Access
Established in 1985, the Jebel Ali Free Zone benefits from proximity to one of the largest
integrated (port and airport) transport and logistics hubs in the Middle East. Located within 4-6
hours of flying distance from Europe and Asia, and within 2-3 hours flying distance to the rest of
the Middle East region, the zone is strategically positioned to serve a sizeable regional and
international market.
The zone is located close to one of the largest ports in the region with a capacity of ~13 million
TEU (Twenty Foot Equivalent Units) and can serve a number of industries reliant on maritime
logistics.
The Jebel Ali Free Zone currently accommodates approximately 7,000 enterprises and is
estimated to contribute up to 25% of Dubai’s non-oil GDP and over 50% of Dubai’s total exports.
It is regarded as one of the most successful FTZs within the MENA region benefiting from its
strategic geographical position and connectivity to African, European and Asian markets.