AKW Consultants

  Introduction On January 23, 2025, soon after taking office, U.S. President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to create the Presidential Working Group on Digital Asset Markets. Chaired by David Sacks, a noted advocate of cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence, this group’s mission is to enhance regulatory oversight of digital assets and evaluate the possibility of establishing a national digital asset reserve. This initiative fits into the broader global movement to incorporate digital currencies into mainstream finance. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is already leading the way in crypto adoption, driven by progressive policies that encourage innovation. As reported by Triple-A’s 2024 Global Cryptocurrency Ownership survey, worldwide crypto ownership hit 6.8%, accounting for over 560 million users. The UAE ranks first in the Middle East and is among the top countries globally, securing the third spot in the Henley Crypto Adoption Index 2024, praised for it...

  Introduction Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have long been catalysts for economic development. A prime example is Shenzhen in China, which transformed from a small fishing village into a major economic hub after its SEZ designation in 1980. Between 1979 and 2019, its GDP per capita soared, mirroring China’s broader economic growth. Today, more than 140 countries operate over 7,000 SEZs—demonstrating their impact on global trade and investment strategies. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands out globally for its thriving free zone model. As of 2023, six of the world’s top ten free zones were in the UAE, with the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) earning top honors for the ninth year in a row. These zones have attracted significant international investment, solidifying the UAE’s position as a top-tier destination for global businesses. To reinforce this reputation, the UAE introduced a 0% corporate tax scheme for eligible companies operating in free zones. This article outli...