Dubai Clear and Nasdaq Dubai have been formally granted Tier 1 Third-Country Central Counterparty recognition by the European Securities and Markets Authority, marking a milestone that strengthens Dubai’s position in the global financial ecosystem.
The recognition took effect on 31 December 2025.
The approval makes Dubai Clear, a subsidiary of Dubai Financial Market, and Nasdaq Dubai the only central counterparties in the Middle East and North Africa to achieve ESMA Tier 1 status. The designation signals the credibility of the UAE’s financial market infrastructure and highlights Dubai’s growing role as an internationally aligned hub for post-trade services.
Tier 1 recognition enables both entities to attract institutions from European Union countries as clearing members. This is expected to deepen cross-border connectivity between Dubai and Europe’s capital markets while reinforcing the emirate’s function as a bridge linking regional issuers with global investors.
ESMA confirmed that Dubai Clear and Nasdaq Dubai operate under regulatory frameworks aligned with the European Market Infrastructure Regulation. Dubai Clear is regulated by the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority and Nasdaq Dubai falls under the oversight of the Dubai Financial Services Authority. The decision reflects the maturity of Dubai’s regulatory environment and its adherence to global best practices in risk management and market oversight.
Hamed Ali, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Financial Market and Nasdaq Dubai, said the milestone demonstrates the progress Dubai has made in building infrastructure that international investors recognise and rely on. He added that the recognition supports Dubai’s capital markets development strategy by enhancing efficiency and investor confidence.
Fatma Bin Qedad, General Manager of Dubai Clear, said the approval represents a significant step in the organisation’s international growth journey and expands its ability to deliver resilient cross-border clearing services.
The achievement underscores increasing cooperation between UAE and European regulators and signals Dubai’s long-term commitment to transparency, stability, and world-class financial infrastructure.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
