DIFC reports strong growth in global client base in first quarter of 2026

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, today announced strong momentum during the first three months of 2026, attracting a diverse mix of new global, regional and local clients.

A total of 775 new companies established their regional presence in DIFC in the first three months of 2026, reflecting the Centre’s growing prominence as a hub for finance, business, and innovation. This marks a 62% increase on the same period in 2025, when 478 companies set up in the Centre. Growth was particularly strong in March, with 258 companies establishing in March 2026, up from 162 in March 2025, representing a 59% year-on-year growth.

The continued influx of firms reflects a broader shift in global financial flows, as institutions and investors reaffirm their commitment to Dubai and DIFC despite global uncertainty. This reinforces Dubai’s position as a preferred global hub and advances its ambition to become one of the world’s top four financial centres.

Unique economic model

His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance and President of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), stated: “Dubai continues to build a unique economic model rooted in a proactive and agile response to regional and global shifts.

This approach is inspired by the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, centred on foresight, economic readiness and the ability to transform challenges into growth opportunities. This has solidified Dubai’s position as a trusted global business and finance hub, and a competitive investment environment capable of sustaining growth under all circumstances.”

His Highness Sheikh Maktoum added: “DIFC’s strong first-quarter performance reflects the rising international confidence in Dubai’s economic ecosystem, its advanced regulatory and legislative frameworks and financial infrastructure. These pillars reinforce Dubai’s ability to attract quality investments and underscore its competitiveness as a prime global destination for economic opportunity.”
His Highness reaffirmed the commitment to further strengthening DIFC’s standing and its innovation-driven systems, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33’s, goal of positioning Dubai among the world’s top four financial hubs by 2033.

New entrants to DIFC, further broadening the range of firms operating across its ecosystem, include Arrowpoint Investment Partners (AIP Management), Braemar Securities, Blue Mountain Capacity, Janus Henderson Investors, Keystone Financial Solutions, National Bank of Canada, Photon Dance, Prospera Wealth Management, RV Capital Management and Ryan Specialty (DIFC) Limited.

Increased investor confidence

His Excellency Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC, said: “Dubai’s standing as a globally top ten ranked financial centre, particularly during a period of global uncertainty, reflects the strength of the emirate’s vision and the central role DIFC continues to play in delivering it.

DIFC’s contribution to enhancing investor confidence, strengthening legal and regulatory transparency, and attracting global capital remains instrumental in reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading financial hub. This sustained progress supports the ambitions of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, further cementing Dubai’s role as a key pillar in the global economic landscape.”

His Excellency Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority said:

“Our strong start to 2026 is driven by the continued influx of new clients choosing DIFC as their base in the region. This growth not only reflects the strength of our platform, but also enhances our reputation as the region’s leading financial centre. As more global, regional and local institutions and family businesses join our ecosystem, they contribute to a dynamic, future-ready environment that strengthens Dubai’s position as a gateway to vast opportunities across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.”

Growth in regulated authorisations

Reflecting sustained demand from regulated financial institutions, DIFC recorded a 21% increase in financial services authorisations during the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year. This growth underscores DIFC’s appeal as the preferred base for establishing regional headquarters and serving markets across the MEASA region.

Surge in foundations reflects family trust in DIFC

Confidence among families continues to strengthen, with 158 foundations registered in DIFC in the first quarter of 2026—more than double the number recorded in the same period last year, representing 108% growth. Momentum accelerated further in March, with 60 foundations registered, marking a 186% increase year-on-year. This growth highlights DIFC’s role as a trusted jurisdiction for wealth governance, succession planning, and the long-term management of intergenerational assets.

Building capacity to meet demand

Demonstrating its ability to deliver at pace, DIFC completed DIFC Square ahead of schedule, achieving 100% occupancy prior to handover. The development forms part of the Centre’s broader expansion strategy, which will add 1.6 million square feet of commercial space between 2026 and 2027, including DIFC Living, Innovation Two, and Immersive Tower.

Progress on DIFC’s landmark Zabeel District expansion continues as planned, creating a future-ready destination that blends commercial, residential, and lifestyle offerings. Centred around a signature boulevard, the expanded district will feature a conference centre, hotels, upscale retail, and cutting-edge digital infrastructure. More than one million square feet will be dedicated to innovation, including the world’s largest innovation hub and the world’s first purpose-built AI Campus.