Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) reported strong growth in the first quarter of 2026, with a sharp rise in the number of companies setting up operations in the financial hub.
A total of 775 new firms joined DIFC between January and March 2026, marking a 62 per cent increase compared to 478 companies during the same period last year. March alone recorded 258 new registrations, up from 162 in March 2025.
The new entrants include global and regional financial institutions such as Janus Henderson Investors and National Bank of Canada, along with several investment and wealth management firms.
Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said: “Dubai continues to build a unique economic model rooted in a proactive and agile response to regional and global shifts.”
He added: “DIFC’s strong first-quarter performance reflects the rising international confidence in Dubai’s economic ecosystem, its advanced regulatory and legislative frameworks and financial infrastructure. These pillars reinforce Dubai’s ability to attract quality investments and underscore its competitiveness as a prime global destination for economic opportunity.”
Investor confidence
Essa Kazim said: “Dubai’s standing as a globally top ten ranked financial centre, particularly during a period of global uncertainty, reflects the strength of the emirate’s vision and the central role DIFC continues to play in delivering it.”
Arif Amiri said: “Our strong start to 2026 is driven by the continued influx of new clients choosing DIFC as their base in the region. This growth not only reflects the strength of our platform, but also enhances our reputation as the region’s leading financial centre.”
DIFC recorded a 21 per cent increase in financial services authorisations in the first quarter compared to the same period last year, reflecting continued demand from regulated institutions.
Family wealth growth
The number of foundations registered in DIFC more than doubled to 158 in the first quarter, representing a 108 per cent increase year-on-year. In March, 60 foundations were established, up 186 per cent compared to the same month in 2025, indicating rising interest in wealth structuring and succession planning.
DIFC also expanded its infrastructure to meet growing demand. It completed DIFC Square ahead of schedule, reaching full occupancy before handover. The centre plans to add 1.6 million square feet of commercial space between 2026 and 2027 through projects including DIFC Living, Innovation Two and Immersive Tower.
Work is also progressing on the Zabeel District expansion, which will include commercial, residential and retail spaces, as well as facilities focused on innovation and technology.
