DIFC Exceeds First-Half 2025 Performance, Bolsters Position as a Leading International Financial Center
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Achieves Record Growth in H1 2025
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has reported its best-ever half-year performance, marking a significant milestone in the city's ambitious economic growth plans. This surge in growth reinforces DIFC's role as a cornerstone in the transformation of Dubai into a leading global financial hub.
In the first half of 2025, DIFC welcomed 1,081 new registered companies, bringing the total number of active firms to 7,700. This growth has been particularly noticeable in key sectors such as banking, capital markets, wealth and asset management, and family business entities. The latter has nearly doubled, reflecting DIFC's commitment to supporting local businesses and contributing to Dubai's economic growth objectives.
The financial services sector in DIFC expanded significantly, with over 10,000 funds managed or marketed. This growth is a testament to DIFC's success in attracting global investment and fostering financial innovation in the region. The number of insurance and reinsurance firms also increased to 135, with gross written premiums for 2024 totaling USD 3.5 billion, up 35% year-on-year.
The DIFC Academy, a key component of the centre's development, enrolled a record 4,947 learners in H1 2025. The Academy launched the '1 Million Learners' initiative, targeting widespread sustainability knowledge, further emphasizing DIFC's commitment to innovation and education.
The DIFC's legal and regulatory frameworks have also evolved, with proposed updates on investment structures and global best practices. This continuous refinement ensures that DIFC remains a attractive and competitive destination for businesses.
The growth of DIFC aligns with Dubai's strategic plan, D33, which aims to double Dubai's GDP and position it among the world's top three cities for business, investment, and quality of life by 2033. The plan focuses on shifting from labor-driven to productivity-led growth by emphasizing innovation, high-value enterprise, and knowledge-based sectors.
DIFC's achievements in H1 2025 underscore its vital role in driving Dubai's competitiveness, innovation, and global appeal as a leading financial centre. With the number of FinTech firms in DIFC reaching 1,388, marking a 28% annual rise, and DIFC hosting the Global Privacy Assembly 2026, the future looks bright for this dynamic financial hub.
- The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has seen a tremendous increase in development, welcoming 1,081 new registered companies in H1 2025, highlighting its commitment to business expansion.
- This growth has been significant in sectors like banking, capital markets, wealth and asset management, and family business entities, reflecting innovation and financial investment in Dubai.
- The DIFC Academy, an essential part of the centre's development, enrolled a record 4,947 learners in H1 2025, emphasizing its focus on education and innovation.
- The DIFC's legal and regulatory frameworks are continuously evolving to attract and accommodate businesses, ensuring its role as a competitive and attractive destination for finance and technology ventures.
- The expansion of DIFC aligns with Dubai's strategic plan, D33, which aims to position Dubai among the world's top three cities for business, investment, and quality of life by 2033, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and high-value enterprise.
- With a rising number of FinTech firms (1,388) and hosting the Global Privacy Assembly 2026, the future of DIFC is promising, shaping Dubai into a leading global financial center that fosters innovation and competitiveness.
