Dubai has been ranked the world’s number one location for FinTech by international financial industry professionals in the latest Global Financial Centres Index, reinforcing the emirate’s growing role in the global financial sector.
The latest GFCI report also placed Dubai ninth among the world’s leading financial centres, while it remains the only centre from the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region to feature in the global top 10. Abu Dhabi also moved up the rankings, rising to 13th globally from 21st place last year.
Dubai’s strong performance in FinTech has been supported by the continued growth of the DIFC, particularly across artificial intelligence, innovation and financial technology. The emirate ranked second globally for professional services and sixth for global reputation, while retaining the top position for future potential for the fourth consecutive GFCI report.
The 40th edition of the index was compiled by London-based consultancy Z/Yen in partnership with the China Development Institute. It was based on 39,531 assessments from financial professionals worldwide, alongside 143 instrumental factors covering the performance and development of financial centres.
DIFC remains a major part of Dubai’s financial ecosystem, with 10,018 active firms and more than 50,200 professionals. Its ecosystem includes 1,134 regulated entities across banking, capital markets, insurance, wealth and asset management, while 1,933 companies operate across AI, FinTech and innovation.
The centre is also expanding through its 17.7 million sq ft Zabeel District development, which is expected to accommodate more than 42,000 companies and a workforce of over 125,000. The district will include Grade A offices, an Innovation Hub, an AI campus, an expanded academy, residential and hospitality developments, and the Museum of Digital Art.
As Dubai continues to attract financial institutions, technology companies, investors and specialised talent, the latest GFCI results highlight the emirate’s expanding role at the intersection of finance, technology and innovation.
At One Investments, we see developments like this as a strong reminder of the value of forward planning. We prioritise understanding our investors objectives and identifying opportunities that match their vision, ensuring a careful balance between potential growth and security.
