Dubai Rises to 7th in Global Financial Centres Index

Dubai has reached its highest-ever position in the Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI), securing the 7th spot globally. This milestone highlights the emirate’s rapid rise as a major global financial hub and reinforces its growing influence in the international financial system.

The achievement aligns with Dubai’s long-term vision under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position the city among the world’s top four financial centres by 2033.

Regional Leadership and Global Competitiveness

Dubai now holds the highest ranking ever achieved by any financial centre in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region. It also remains the only financial hub from the region to feature in the global top 20.

This performance places Dubai alongside leading global financial cities such as London, New York City, and Singapore, further strengthening its global standing.

DIFC Driving Growth and Innovation

A major factor behind Dubai’s success is the expansion of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), which continues to play a central role in shaping the emirate’s financial ecosystem.

DIFC has seen record growth in recent years, now hosting over 9,000 active companies and more than 50,000 professionals. It has attracted leading global banks, asset managers, fintech firms, and insurance companies, making it one of the most comprehensive financial hubs worldwide.

Strong Performance Across Financial Sectors

Dubai has demonstrated impressive progress across multiple financial sectors:

• Banking ranked 14th globally

• Finance, investment management, and insurance ranked in the top 10

• FinTech, trading, and professional services entered the top 5

Additionally, Dubai is recognized among the top cities globally for business environment, infrastructure, financial sector development, and human capital.

Leadership Vision Behind the Growth

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum credited the achievement to Dubai’s forward-looking economic strategy and strong global confidence in its financial ecosystem.

He emphasized that the emirate is not only adapting to global financial changes but actively shaping the future of finance through innovation, resilience, and strategic planning.

A Global Bridge Between East and West

Dubai’s strategic location and business-friendly regulatory framework position it as a vital bridge connecting markets across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

With initiatives like the DIFC Innovation Hub and Dubai AI Campus, the city continues to strengthen its role as a global centre for finance, investment, and technology-driven innovation.

Path to Top Four by 2033

Dubai’s rise to 7th place signals strong momentum toward its ambitious goal of becoming one of the world’s top four financial centres by 2033.

With sustained growth, investor confidence, and a thriving financial ecosystem, Dubai is well on track to further elevate its global leadership in the years ahead.