Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) continues to solidify its role as the leading financial hub in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA). In 2025, DIFC surpassed 8,000 active registered companies, including over 1,000 entities regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).
At the same time, DIFC Courts recorded over AED 17.5 billion (over $4.7 billion) in total case values, reflecting strong commercial activity and confidence in the centre’s legal system.
Dubai’s Rising Global Financial Status
Dubai climbed to 11th place in the Global Financial Centre Index, reinforcing its position among the world’s top financial hubs. It also ranks in the top four global FinTech centres, highlighting the city’s innovation-driven growth.
The milestones support the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), aiming to attract global talent, foster innovation, and drive sustainable economic development.
H.E. Essa Kazim, governor of DIFC, stated: “DIFC empowers the financial services industry, attracts global talent, and supports sustainable growth. Our framework is built for today and the future.”
DIFC: A Hub for Global Financial Powerhouses
Since 2004, DIFC has attracted global banks, financial firms, and professional service providers. Its ecosystem integrates:
- DIFC Authority: Strategy, infrastructure, and innovation leadership.
- DFSA: Globally aligned regulatory oversight for stability and compliance.
- DIFC Courts: Efficient dispute resolution services.
This combination ensures transparency, stability, and business agility, setting DIFC apart from other financial centres.
Scale and Diversity in Financial Services
DIFC is the region’s largest financial hub, connected to over 72 countries across MEASA. Key figures include:
- 8,000+ active registered companies.
- 48,000 professionals employed in banking, capital markets, wealth management, insurance, and professional services.
- 289 licensed banks and capital market companies, including 27 of the world’s 29 systemically important banks.
- $240 billion in banking assets, up nearly 200% from a decade ago.
H.E. Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority, said: “Exceeding 8,000 companies demonstrates our scale and diversity, enabling significant contributions to Dubai’s economic growth.”
DFSA: Robust Regulation for Growth
The DFSA now oversees over 1,000 entities, the largest number in any regional financial centre. Its regulatory framework is based on common law and global benchmarks.
Mark Steward, CEO of DFSA, commented: “Financial entities choose DIFC to grow, connect with global investors, and access regional markets.”
The DFSA is also evolving its funds regime to maintain best-in-class status, attracting hedge funds, wealth managers, and alternative investment firms.
DIFC Courts: Trusted Dispute Resolution
The DIFC Courts are the leading English-language commercial courts in the region, providing efficient dispute resolution for local, regional, and international businesses.
Chief Justice Wayne Martin stated: “The increase in claims in 2025 highlights DIFC Courts’ growth, reliability, and status as a trusted jurisdiction for complex commercial disputes.”
Conclusion
DIFC’s achievements in 2025 reinforce Dubai’s standing as a global financial powerhouse. With strong regulation, a robust legal framework, and growing commercial activity, DIFC continues to attract businesses, talent, and investment from around the world.
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