Dubai: In a landmark recognition, the latest Global Financial Centre Index (GFCI) published on 20 March 2025 by Z/Yen in London has hailed Dubai as a global leader in finance.
Based on 31,314 assessments from nearly 5,000 financial services professionals, the index rated 119 financial centres worldwide and spotlighted Dubai’s significant progress over the past 20 years through the initiatives of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
Dubai has achieved several firsts, including being ranked as a top five global FinTech hub for the first time—a recognition driven by DIFC’s innovative initiatives. The city is now one of only eight financial centres worldwide to be recognized for its broad and deep capabilities across all finance sectors, placing it alongside established giants like London, New York, and Paris.
Overall, Dubai’s ranking has advanced to 12th globally, and it is the only financial city in the region to feature in the top 15 across multiple categories including infrastructure (9th), business environment (10th), reputation (11th), and human capital (12th).
Sector-specific accolades further underscore Dubai’s growing influence: it ranks 5th in FinTech, 6th in Professional Services, 8th in Investment Management, 13th in Trading, and 14th in Banking/Finance.
His Excellency Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC, stated, “With Dubai being one of only eight cities worldwide recognized as a global leader in the financial industry, we are proud to be shaping the future of global finance. Dubai’s emergence as a top five FinTech hub is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence.”
His Excellency Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority, added, “Dubai’s continued rise in the Global Financial Centres Index reflects our unwavering focus on developing the region’s leading financial ecosystem and ensuring that our city remains at the forefront of global competitiveness.”
These achievements are seen as a major boost to the Dubai Economic Agenda, reinforcing the city’s status as the region’s premier global financial centre and a significant player in the future of finance.
