Dubai has been selected to host SIBOS 2029, one of the world’s premier financial services events, reaffirming the UAE’s status as a global banking and payments hub.
Organised annually by SWIFT, the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication, SIBOS brings together over 10,000 leaders from banks, fintech firms, and financial institutions. Dubai’s selection reflects international confidence in the UAE’s digital transformation, innovation in payments, and leadership in financial infrastructure.
The UAE Banks Federation (UBF), in coordination with key partners including Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai World Trade Centre, and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, played a pivotal role in securing the bid, with the support of the Central Bank of the UAE.
UBF Chairman Abdulaziz Al-Ghurair said the decision underscores the UAE’s growing reputation as a centre for global dialogue on financial innovation, secure banking systems, and modern payment infrastructure.
This will be the second time Dubai hosts the prestigious event, having previously done so in 2013—the first Middle East and Africa destination to do so. Since then, the UAE has deepened its role in global financial connectivity through initiatives such as the SWIFT User Training Centre and the region’s first National SWIFT User Group, launched in 2021.
Jamal Saleh, UBF Director-General, called the hosting a milestone reflecting the UAE’s progress in digital payments and alignment with international standards, powered by the National Payment Systems Strategy initiated in 2019.
SWIFT EMEA CEO Marianne Demarchi welcomed the return to Dubai, praising its strategic location and role in fostering industry-wide dialogue.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
