Sheikh Maktoum Meets Robinhood CEO to Boost Cooperation

His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, and President of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), met with Vlad Tenev, Chief Executive Officer and President of Robinhood Markets, Inc. The meeting was held at His Highness’s office in Nad Al Sheba, Dubai, and focused on future opportunities in the financial sector.

Dubai’s Vision for Finance

During the meeting, Sheikh Maktoum underlined the UAE’s and Dubai’s commitment to continuously advancing their financial ecosystem. He highlighted that innovation, resilience, and global competitiveness remain the pillars of Dubai’s strategy. Dubai is determined to maintain its position as a world-class financial hub that attracts top global firms and nurtures local talent.

Strengthening Collaboration with Robinhood

The discussions with Vlad Tenev revolved around ways to enhance cooperation between Dubai and Robinhood. Both sides explored how Dubai’s robust infrastructure, supportive business environment, and advanced technological ecosystem could serve as a strong base for Robinhood’s expansion into new markets. The meeting also reaffirmed Dubai’s role as a gateway for financial companies aiming to grow across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.

Aligning with Dubai Economic Agenda D33

Sheikh Maktoum stressed that partnerships with global firms like Robinhood support the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. This ambitious plan aims to double Dubai’s GDP within the next decade and place it among the world’s top four financial hubs by 2033. He added that by leveraging Dubai’s infrastructure, regulatory support, and vibrant financial industry, international innovators are given the right platform to expand in fast-growing regions.

Robinhood’s Journey and Growth

Robinhood was co-founded in 2013 by Vlad Tenev. Over the years, it has grown into a leading global financial services company best known for its commission-free trading and investment services. Headquartered in Menlo Park, California, the company now serves 26.7 million funded customers worldwide. As of August 31, 2025, Robinhood reported total platform assets worth $304 billion, highlighting its significant growth and trust among global investors.

Strong Financial Performance

Robinhood has shown robust financial growth in recent years. In 2024, the company’s total net revenues increased by 58% compared to the previous year, reaching $2.95 billion. This performance underscores Robinhood’s ability to adapt to market trends and expand its reach in the financial technology space. The company’s innovation-driven business model aligns with Dubai’s goals of attracting pioneering firms that redefine modern finance.

Robinhood’s Expansion Opportunities in Dubai

For Robinhood, Dubai offers a unique opportunity to enter and expand in emerging markets. With its strategic location, business-friendly regulations, and advanced financial infrastructure, Dubai acts as a launchpad for global firms to grow across Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. Vlad Tenev expressed optimism about strengthening ties with Dubai and recognized the emirate’s role in shaping the future of finance.

Presence of Senior Officials

The meeting was also attended by Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, and Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. Their presence highlighted the importance of this engagement in strengthening government and private sector collaboration for economic growth.

Reinforcing Dubai as a Financial Hub

This high-level engagement reflects Dubai’s consistent efforts to reinforce its standing as a trusted financial hub. By building strategic alliances with global leaders such as Robinhood, Dubai showcases its readiness to embrace financial innovation and strengthen its role in the global financial community. The city’s strong ecosystem supports firms in exploring new opportunities while driving long-term economic growth.

The meeting between Sheikh Maktoum and Vlad Tenev marks the beginning of potential future collaborations. By aligning Dubai’s strategic ambitions with Robinhood’s expertise in digital trading and investment, both sides stand to benefit from shared growth. This partnership demonstrates Dubai’s continued focus on attracting global innovators and creating new opportunities for financial excellence in the years ahead.