Maktoum Bin Mohammed Commends DIFC’s Contributions To Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda And Global Financial Leadership

H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, chaired a meeting with the DIFC Higher Board of Directors. The meeting highlighted the remarkable progress made by the DIFC Authority, DFSA, and DIFC Courts. These achievements reinforce Dubai's position as a leading global financial hub in the region.

The DIFC's success is attributed to its advanced legislative framework, technological capabilities, and robust financial infrastructure. H.H. Sheikh Maktoum praised the team for aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). This alignment reflects His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's vision of establishing Dubai as a global economic capital.

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Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC, stated that DIFC plays a crucial role in realising Dubai’s ambitions as a top financial powerhouse. He noted that their unique ecosystem and regulatory framework attract financial institutions and innovators to Dubai at an unprecedented scale. The Centre aims to enhance its contribution to the D33 Agenda through its 2030 Strategy.

The meeting also discussed DIFC's ambitious 2030 Strategy progress. By 2025, the Centre plans to expand its AI and entrepreneurship ecosystem further. Initiatives like the Dubai AI Academy aim to train 10,000 future leaders, while the "1 Million Learners" initiative focuses on sustainability education in the region.

The DFSA regulates the largest number of financial services firms in the region. This reflects the strength of DIFC’s regulatory framework. The DFSA has introduced a streamlined authorisation process to improve efficiency while maintaining high standards. This year saw record numbers of firms seeking authorisation in DIFC.

DIFC Courts processed claims exceeding AED17.5 billion this year, solidifying their status as a leading English-language common law system in the region. This success highlights DIFC’s robust legal framework and ability to deliver world-class judicial services.

Strategic Objectives and Future Plans

The Board approved DIFC Courts’ Five-Year Growth Strategy aligned with D33 objectives. This strategy builds on their track record of resolving complex commercial disputes and enhances Dubai’s reputation as a jurisdiction of choice. Discussions underscored DIFC’s commitment to making Dubai one of the world’s leading global financial centres.

DIFC aims to continue evolving its trusted legal framework and infrastructure while harnessing innovation and AI. Empowering future industry leaders remains a priority for enhancing global competitiveness and differentiating Dubai as a finance destination.

Expanding Global Outreach

DIFC deepened support for high-growth companies through new initiatives like venture debt programs. It broadened global outreach into new markets and achieved major milestones such as surpassing $1 billion in assets under DEWS scheme.

The Board recognised that DIFC is unique in operating across all sectors at scale within the region. Its credibility attracts over 8,000 companies globally, including more than 1,000 firms regulated by DFSA.

Members reaffirmed DIFC’s role as an innovation catalyst within financial services during discussions about future plans. They highlighted using Dubai Future Finance Week 2026 as a platform for shaping finance's future globally while attracting more investment into Dubai.

With inputs from WAM