The Banking Executive Magazine - May 2026 Issue - New

Capital with Purpose Banking Star ARAB BANKER OF ISSUE 209 MAY 2026 the BANKING EXECUTIVE 27 a broader shift in global financial flows, as institutions and investors reaffirm their commitment to Dubai and DIFC despite ongoing global uncertainty. In this context, Dubai has emerged as a preferred global hub, reinforcing momentum to- wards its ambition to rank among the world’s top four financial cen- tres. H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mo- hammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance and President of the Dubai Interna- tional Financial Centre (DIFC), stated, “Dubai continues to consol- idate a unique economic model rooted in a proactive and agile re- sponse 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 and Ruler of Dubai, cen- tred on foresight, economic readi- ness and transformation of challenges into opportunities for growth. This approach has solidified Dubai’s position as a trusted global business and finance hub, and a competitive investment ecosystem conducive to achieving sustainable growth under all circumstances.” Sheikh Maktoum added, “DIFC’s strong performance during the first quarter of 2026 reflects the rising in- ternational confidence in Dubai’s economic ecosystem, its advanced regulatory and legislative frame- works and financial infrastructure. These pillars reinforce Dubai’s abil- ity to attract quality investments and underscore its competitiveness as a prime destination for global eco- nomic opportunities.” He reaffirmed the ongoing commit- ment to advancing DIFC’s standing and its innovation-driven systems, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) goal of positioning Dubai among the top four global fi- nancial hubs by 2033. Among the new companies estab- lishing in DIFC and further broaden- ing the range of firms operating across all sectors in the DIFC ecosystem were Arrowpoint Invest- ment Partners (AIP Management), Braemar Securities, Blue Mountain Capacity, Janus Henderson In- vestors, Keystone Financial Solu- tions, National Bank of Canada, Photon Dance, Prospera Wealth Management, RV Capital Manage- ment and Ryan Specialty (DIFC) Limited. Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC, said, “Dubai’s standing as a globally top ten ranked financial centre, particu- larly during a period of global un- certainty, 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.” Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority, said,“Our strong start to 2026 is driven by the contin- ued influx of new clients choosing DIFC as their base in the region. This growth not only reflects the strength of our platform, but also en- hances our reputation as the re- gion’s leading financial centre. As more global, regional, local insti- tutions and families join our ecosys- tem, 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.” Reflecting sustained demand from regulated financial institutions, DIFC recorded a 21% increase in fi- nancial services authorisations dur- ing 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 headquar- ters and serving markets across the MEASA region. Confidence among families contin- ues to strengthen, with 158 founda- tions registered in DIFC during the first quarter of 2026—more than double the number recorded in the same period last year, representing 108% growth. Momentum acceler- ated further in March, with 60 foun- dations registered, marking a 186% increase year-on-year. This growth highlights DIFC’s role as a trusted ju- risdiction for wealth governance, succession planning, and the long- term management of intergenera- tional assets. Demonstrating its ability to deliver at pace, DIFC completed DIFC Square ahead of schedule, achiev- ing full occupancy prior to han- dover. The development forms part of the Centre’s broader expansion strategy, which will add 1.6 million square feet of commercial space be- tween 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 boule- vard, the expanded district will fea- ture a conference centre, hotels, upscale retail, and cutting-edge dig- ital 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 Cam- pus.