#United Arab Emirates #Dubai #Economic Growth #Dubai International Financial Centre #DIFC

DIFC's Landmark H1 2025 Achievements

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has reported outstanding results for the first half of 2025, firmly establishing itself as a cornerstone of Dubai’s economic ambitions outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). With 1,081 new active registered companies joining during this period, the total number of active companies within the DIFC has now surged to 7,700. This influx signifies not only the growing attractiveness of Dubai as a financial hub but also underscores the Centre's vital role in promoting innovation and financial services in the region.

DIFC's performance highlights a 28 percent increase in financial services authorizations, marking a total of 78 new approvals in H1 2025 versus 61 in the same period last year. This growth is mirrored across various sectors within the Centre. In particular, the banking and capital markets cluster has expanded to 289 companies, up from 247 the previous year. Notably, the wealth and asset management sector has seen a robust increase, rising from 370 to 440 entities in just a year, with an impressive 85 hedge funds, including 69 billion-dollar funds, now operating from the Centre.

Additionally, the number of family businesses utilizing DIFC has also increased significantly, with 1,035 entities now linked to family operations, a sharp rise from 600 last year. Foundations have surged as well, climbing to 842 from 548 in H1 2024. The insurance sector shows robust activity with 135 firms, showcasing gross written premiums advancing from USD 2.6 billion to USD 3.5 billion for the year ending in 2024.

The FinTech and Innovation landscape is just as promising, with the number of companies reaching 1,388, reflecting a 28% increase from 1,081 in H1 2024. Meanwhile, total active non-financial entities in the Centre have grown to 6,335, a leap from 4,935 the previous year.

H.E. Essa Kazim, the Governor of DIFC, emphasized the Centre's role in energizing Dubai’s economic growth. He stated, “DIFC remains the driving force behind Dubai's economic growth, as a key enabler of the financial services sector's expansion and diversification.” Kazim highlights the importance of DIFC’s consistent performance as it solidifies Dubai’s reputation as one of the most competitive global economies.

In a global context, Dubai stands out as one of only eight cities worldwide recognized for its broad and deep capabilities across all financial industry sectors, joining the ranks of cities like London, New York, and Paris.

To meet the rising demand for office spaces, DIFC is currently undertaking development projects, with over 1.6 million square feet of commercial space under construction, with readiness expected starting in the first quarter of 2026.

DIFC's sustained growth reinforces its commitment to fostering innovation, attracting global capital, and strengthening Dubai's status as a financial powerhouse. The results from H1 2025 not only highlight its leadership in the financial services sector but also set the stage for a scalable future, aligned with the overarching goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda. As DIFC continues to thrive, it invites even more stakeholders to participate in its ambitious journey toward becoming the preferred global financial center.

This positive trajectory is indicative of a broader trend within the Middle East, especially as Dubai positions itself as a leader in financial services and innovation, ready to meet the challenges of today’s dynamic financial landscape.