Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) recorded its strongest first-half results to date, with continued growth across financial and innovation sectors, as well as increased participation from new companies and institutions.

Between January and June 2025, a total of 1,081 new companies joined DIFC, representing a 32% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

The total number of active firms now stands at 7,700.

The increase reflects growing interest in Dubai and the DIFC as a base for regional and international operations.

The number of firms regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) has reached 980.

DIFC remains the only financial centre in the region operating at scale across banking, capital markets, asset management, insurance, and other financial services sectors.

The Centre noted increased intra-community business activity as a result of this concentration.

DIFC also reported a 72% rise in hedge fund registrations over the past 12 months, with 85 such entities now based in the Centre.

The financial ecosystem includes 440 wealth and asset management firms, 289 banking and capital markets institutions, and 135 insurance-related companies.

The number of family-related entities and foundations continues to grow, supported by Dubai’s role as a regional wealth hub.

DIFC is currently home to 1,035 family-related entities and 842 foundations.

The innovation and technology segment also expanded, with 1,388 AI, fintech, and Innovation firms now operating within DIFC, a 28% year-on-year increase.

Ignyte, the Centre’s digital platform for start-ups, has delivered AED 182 million in documented benefits since its launch in late 2024.

A proptech Hub has also been introduced to support innovation in the real estate sector, in line with Dubai’s Real Estate Strategy 2033.

To support ongoing growth, DIFC is developing over 1.6 million square feet of new commercial space, with occupancy expected to begin from Q1 2026.

The workforce within the Centre increased by 9% over the past year to 47,901 people.

The DIFC Academy, in partnership with 32 education and training providers, continues to support skills development across sectors.

“DIFC’s continued success is powered by the best infrastructure, progressive legislation, robust regulation, and an unmatched community,”

said Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority.

“Aligned with the D33 Agenda, we are not just driving the future of finance, we are building it together.”

Featured image credit: Govt of Dubai