The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) has announced its Business Plan for 2025-2026, aiming to solidify the Dubai International Financial Centre’s (DIFC) position as a leading global financial hub. The plan aligns with Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33, Digital Dubai, and the DIFC 2030 Strategy, focusing on regulatory excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth.

The DFSA highlighted four strategic themes in its plan: regulatory delivery, stakeholder engagement, innovation, and sustainability. These areas aim to ensure DIFC remains competitive and responsive to the evolving financial landscape.

Chairman Fadel Al Ali emphasized the DFSA’s commitment to maintaining international standards while embracing digital transformation. He stated via WAM that the new plan demonstrates a forward-looking approach to supporting DIFC’s growth and Dubai’s broader prosperity.

Key priorities include strengthening risk-based regulation by aligning with global standards and fostering innovation, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence and fintech. The DFSA plans to enhance its Innovation Testing Licence and regulatory sandboxes to support technological advancements.

Fighting financial crime and boosting cybersecurity are also at the forefront of the agenda. The DFSA will work with federal authorities to implement Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations and expand its Threat Intelligence Platform internationally to bolster cyber resilience.

Additionally, the DFSA will invest in its workforce, focusing on nurturing Emirati talent to build a skilled, future-ready organization capable of meeting industry challenges.

Ian Johnston, DFSA Chief Executive, highlighted the focus on collaboration, agility, and transparency, ensuring the DIFC remains a prominent player in the global financial services sector.