His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on Tuesday launched DIFC Zabeel District, a landmark expansion of the Dubai International Financial Centre that will significantly scale its global reach and reinforce Dubai’s position as a leading hub for finance, innovation, and high-quality living.
Unveiled at a ceremony in Zabeel adjacent to the existing DIFC Gate District, the project represents the largest demand-led financial centre expansion in the region. Spanning 7.1 million square feet with a total gross floor area of 17.7 million square feet, the development carries an estimated gross value exceeding AED100 billion.
The new district is designed to more than double DIFC’s capacity, accommodating over 42,000 companies and a workforce exceeding 125,000. It will also allocate more than one million square feet to future technologies, including the world’s largest innovation hub and the first purpose-built AI campus.
Sheikh Mohammed said the launch reflects Dubai’s commitment to future-focused development that integrates business growth with quality of life, positioning the emirate as a preferred destination for global talent and investment. He described DIFC as the “pulsing heart” of Dubai’s economy and a vital bridge between East and West.
Senior leaders, including H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, attended the launch alongside government officials and DIFC leadership.
The six-phase development will feature commercial and residential spaces, education hubs, cultural venues, and extensive green areas, connected seamlessly to the existing DIFC. The first phase is now underway, with public access expected from 2030 and full completion targeted for 2040.
Aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, DIFC Zabeel District is set to anchor the emirate’s next chapter of financial and economic growth.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
