Dubai has strengthened its position as one of the world’s leading global financial centres, with the latest Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI) recognising the emirate’s rise across multiple key categories. The success is largely attributed to the achievements of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) over the past two decades.
Published by Z/Yen in London, the GFCI is the most credible ranking for the financial services industry, assessing 119 financial centres globally. The index combines qualitative assessments from 4,946 financial professionals with 31,314 ratings, alongside quantitative data covering infrastructure, business environment, human capital, and innovation.
Key Highlights for Dubai:
- Top 5 Globally for FinTech for the first time, thanks to DIFC-led innovation and strategy
- Recognised as one of only eight global cities with ‘broad and deep’ financial capabilities, alongside London, New York, Paris, and others
- Overall ranking advanced to 12th, maintaining its lead in the Middle East and North Africa region
- Most mentioned financial centre expected to become more significant in the future
- The only financial city in the region ranked in the top 15 globally for:
- 9th – Infrastructure
- 10th – Business Environment
- 11th – Reputation (including legal, regulatory, and innovation frameworks)
- 12th – Human Capital
Dubai is also the only regional city to appear in the top 15 for the following sectors:
- 5th – FinTech
- 6th – Professional Services
- 8th – Investment Management
- 13th – Trading
- 14th – Banking & Finance
His Excellency Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC, said:
“With Dubai being one of only eight cities globally recognised as a leader across the financial sector, we are proud to be shaping the future of global finance and contributing to the Dubai Economic Agenda. Our emergence as a top five global FinTech hub is a testament to the continuous innovation and excellence driven by DIFC’s forward-thinking initiatives. As the most mentioned financial city expected to grow in significance, we reaffirm our position as the region’s leading global financial centre.”
His Excellency Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority, added:
“Dubai’s steady rise in the GFCI reflects DIFC’s ongoing efforts to build the region’s most advanced financial ecosystem. Ranking in the top 15 globally across multiple competitiveness categories underlines our leadership and strategic focus. These achievements demonstrate our commitment to innovation, legal and regulatory excellence, and cultivating talent—ensuring Dubai remains at the forefront of global finance.”
News Source: Dubai Media Office
