Tipolis

Tipolis is a Singapore-based company that develops International Cities — privately run communities, founded on clear contracts, that aim to widen opportunity, choice and freedom for the people who live in them. It grew out of the Free Private Cities concept devised by its founder and chief executive, Titus Gebel, and works by partnering commercially with governments and special zones to create, own and operate a portfolio of new urban settlements around the world.

Tipolis frames International Cities as the next evolution of Special Economic Zones and an application of the Special Administrative Region model: each city runs its own internal affairs — administration, security, dispute resolution, and economic and social policy — under a contractual arrangement with a host country, while remaining part of that country for defence, foreign relations and constitutional matters. The operating company keeps its position only while the city thrives, an incentive the firm presents as the source of good services and a stable rule of law. Its team draws on experience from established special jurisdictions such as the Dubai International Financial Centre.