DIFC Celebrates 20 Years with Record Revenue, Innovation Surge, and Commitment to Net Zero by 2045
February 18, 2025
DIFC hosted the Dubai AI and Web3 Festival, attracting 6,800 delegates and reinforcing its role as a global tech hub.
Plans are underway to launch a dedicated Funds Centre in 2025, aimed at supporting investment managers in raising and deploying capital.
DIFC's workforce expanded to 46,078, reflecting a 10% rise due to job creation from new and existing businesses, with a notable 37% female representation.
The technology and innovation sector at DIFC was the fastest-growing, with a 38% year-on-year increase, driven by the launch of the Dubai AI Campus.
DIFC experienced a remarkable 25% year-on-year rise in active companies, reaching a total of 6,920 in 2024, alongside a historic 1,823 new registrations.
The centre reported that the top 120 families and high-net-worth individuals managed over USD 1.2 trillion in wealth, with family-owned businesses increasing by 33% since 2023.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024, reporting record financial results including a 37% increase in total revenue to AED 1.78 billion (USD 484 million).
DIFC is committed to achieving Net Zero by 2045, showcasing its leadership in environmental sustainability ahead of the UAE's target.
Emerging technologies, particularly AI and FinTech, are reshaping financial services, highlighted by initiatives under the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence.
The wealth management sector at DIFC saw a net increase of 60 firms, growing to 410 firms, contributing to the overall expansion of the financial services market.
This growth reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, positioning Dubai as a leading global financial centre.
DIFC houses over 260 banking and capital markets firms and 410 wealth and asset management companies, solidifying its status as a global financial hub.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources

Zawya • Feb 18, 2025
UAE: DIFC marks 20th anniversary with record annual performance
Gulf Business • Feb 19, 2025
DIFC marks 20th anniversary, reports record performance in 2024
Gulf Today • Feb 18, 2025
DIFC marks 20th anniversary with record annual performance