Dubai ranked 7th in Global Financial Centres Index

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Dubai ranked 7th in Global Financial Centres Index

March 26, 2026

DUBAI,— Dubai reached its highest position ever in the Global Financial Centres Index, ranking seventh worldwide and highlighting its growing role among leading financial hubs.

The result marks progress in Dubai’s plan to become one of the top four global financial centres by 2033, part of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

The ranking is the highest achieved by any financial centre across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, known as MEASA.

Dubai remains the only centre from the region listed in the top 20, reflecting its position in regional and global markets.

The financial sector is supported by Dubai International Financial Centre DIFC, which continues to expand its international reach and services.

The index places Dubai alongside cities such as London, New York City and Singapore.

It also remains among ten cities identified as global industry leaders and was ranked the top centre expected to gain further importance.

Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC, said the ranking reflects Dubai’s long term vision and rising presence in global finance.

He said the centre’s infrastructure and regulatory system support growth and attract international firms and skilled workers.

DIFC has recorded strong expansion in recent years, with more than 9,000 active companies.

These include major banks, asset managers, hedge funds, insurers and professional services firms.

The workforce has grown to over 50,000 employees.

Industry participants ranked Dubai in the top 15 across all sectors for the first time.

Banking placed 14th, while finance, investment management and insurance were within the top 10.

FinTech, government, regulatory, professional services and trading ranked in the top five.

Dubai also appeared among the top ten cities worldwide for business environment, financial sector development, human capital and infrastructure.

These indicators measure competitiveness and support for financial activity across global markets.

According to DIFC the data shows Dubai’s continued progress as it builds its position within the international financial system and expands its role in cross border investment and services for businesses and institutions worldwide in multiple sectors and regions over time periods globally.

(With files from Dubai International Financial Centre | difc.com)