For the first time, the number of active registered companies in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) surpassed 6,000 in the first half of 2024, rising from 4,949 to 6,153, marking a 24 percent year-on-year increase, according to recent data. During this period, 820 new companies joined DIFC, a 24 percent increase compared to the same period in the previous year. Notably, FinTech and Innovation sector companies grew by 33 percent, from 811 to 1,081. DIFC also attracted global talent, creating 4,647 new jobs in the past year, bringing the total workforce to 43,787, a 12 percent increase.

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, and President of DIFC, highlighted DIFC's role in shaping Dubai's global financial reputation and contributing to the UAE's sustainable growth. He emphasized DIFC's commitment to fostering a robust financial ecosystem and enhancing its industry ecosystem to meet global economic needs.

DIFC boasts the largest cluster of financial firms in the region, with over 370 wealth and asset management firms, including 50 pure play hedge funds, primarily from the GCC, Europe, UK, and the US. Assets Under Management surged by 58 percent to $700 billion. The insurance and reinsurance sector also expanded, with 125 companies, a 14 percent increase. DIFC's properties maintained high occupancy levels, prompting plans to add 1.6 million sq. ft. of commercial space over the next three years.

Essa Kazim, the governor of DIFC, and Arif Amiri, the CEO of DIFC Authority, underscored DIFC's continued growth and its role as the leading financial center in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. The Dubai AI Campus at the DIFC Innovation Hub, which supports AI adoption, currently hosts 75 businesses and aims to attract 500 companies and create 3,000 jobs by 2028.

DIFC has introduced innovative laws, including the world's first Digital Assets Law, to enhance market confidence. The center supports over 600 entities affiliated with family businesses, including 120 of the world's wealthiest families. DIFC is expanding its real estate portfolio, with new developments meeting LEED certification standards, to meet high demand.