Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Achieves Record Growth, Adding 1,081 New Companies in H1 2025 and Increasing Total Number of Active Registered Firms to 7,700.

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has reported a record first-half 2025 performance, with 1,081 new companies added, a 25% YoY increase in active registered firms to 7,700, and a 9% rise in professionals to 47,901. The number of firms regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority increased by 17% to 980, and financial services authorisations rose by 28% to 78. DIFC's expanding influence in the global financial sector and its contribution to the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 are highlighted by the Centre's performance.

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has reported a robust first-half 2025 performance, underscoring its growing influence in the global financial sector. According to recent data, DIFC has seen a significant increase in new companies, professionals, and regulatory oversight.

Between January and June 2025, DIFC registered 1,081 new active companies, marking a 32% increase from the same period in 2024 [2]. This surge has contributed to a 25% year-on-year (YoY) increase in the total number of active registered firms, which now stands at 7,700 [2]. Additionally, the number of professionals working in DIFC rose by 9% to 47,901, highlighting the Centre's expanding workforce and expertise [2].

The regulatory environment in DIFC has also seen significant growth. The number of firms regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) increased by 17% to 980, while financial services authorisations grew by 28% to 78, indicating a robust regulatory framework [2].

Among the notable new entrants to DIFC's client base during the first half of 2025 were ABK Capital, Avaloq, Baron Capital, Bluecrest Capital, Bridge Investment Group, Cambridge Associates, China International Capital Corporation, dLocal, Manulife, National Bank of Kuwait, Pearl Diver Capital, PIMCO, RV Capital, Silver Point Capital, Tourmaline, TransAmerica Life Bermuda, and Welwing Capital Management [2].

The CEO of DIFC Authority, Arif Amiri, expressed the Centre's achievements, stating, "In the first half of 2025, DIFC has exceeded expectations across every metric. Our strong performance demonstrates the power of our ecosystem, the scale of our platform, and the depth of expertise we bring to the industry" [2].

DIFC's performance reflects its strategic role in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai as a global financial hub. The Centre's continued growth and influence highlight its commitment to fostering innovation and attracting international talent and investment.

References:
[1] https://www.morningstar.com/news/business-wire/20250728133231/baron-capital-expands-global-footprint-and-establishes-office-in-dubai
[2] https://international-adviser.com/record-number-of-firms-open-offices-in-dubai-in-h1-2025/