Maktoum Bin Mohammed Engages With Mizuho Financial Group CEO To Discuss Financial Collaboration
H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), recently met with Masahiro Kihara, President and Group CEO of Mizuho Financial Group. This meeting, held at The Ruler’s Court in Dubai, underscored the UAE's dedication to strengthening ties with major global financial institutions.
The discussions focused on Dubai's ambitious plans for its financial sector. These include enhancing capital market depth and liquidity and establishing the city as one of the world's top four financial centres, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. The meeting also highlighted Dubai’s pro-business policies that continue to attract leading financial institutions worldwide.
During the meeting, H.H. Sheikh Maktoum emphasised the UAE's strategic vision to expand its role in the international financial industry. He noted that the UAE offers a robust infrastructure, streamlined regulations, and a progressive business environment. These factors make it an ideal platform for global financial firms to explore growth opportunities in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region.
Mizuho Financial Group is headquartered in Tokyo and provides integrated solutions combining banking, securities, and asset management capabilities. It serves a diverse client base including large corporations, financial institutions, public sector entities, and individuals through its global network spanning major international markets.
The meeting explored potential pathways for expanding Mizuho Financial Group’s engagement in the region. Opportunities to collaborate in vital financial sectors were discussed, particularly those driven by new financial and digital technologies. The discussions also covered Dubai’s role as a gateway for Japanese companies aiming to expand their global presence in the MEASA region.
Mizuho Financial Group reported total assets of approximately ¥285 trillion as of December 31, 2024. The Group employed over 52,000 employees as of March 31, 2024. In Dubai, Mizuho’s operations are supported by its subsidiaries, Mizuho Bank and Mizuho International, both located in DIFC.
Key Attendees
The meeting was attended by several notable figures including Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; Helal Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET); Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC; and Hesham Abdulla Al Qassim, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Emirates NBD.
Dubai continues to position itself as a pivotal player in the international financial landscape through strategic partnerships and initiatives aimed at fostering growth across various sectors.
With inputs from WAM
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