DFSA Outlines 2025-2026 Strategic Focus: Excellence, Innovation, Growth

The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) has officially launched its Business Plan for 2025-2026, titled Advancing Regulatory Excellence and Innovation within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). This initiative reinforces Dubai’s position as a global financial hub, aligning with major strategic frameworks such as Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33, Digital Dubai, and the DIFC 2030 Strategy.

Strengthening DIFC’s Global Standing

The newly announced plan underscores the DFSA’s commitment to regulatory excellence, innovation, and sustainable economic growth. By adopting a proactive approach, the authority aims to ensure that the DIFC remains at the forefront of the international financial landscape, adapting to the evolving needs of businesses and investors.

Four Pillars of Strategic Focus

The Business Plan revolves around four fundamental themes that will guide its implementation over the next two years:

> Delivery – Enhancing and refining the regulatory framework to stay adaptable and effective in a rapidly evolving financial sector.

> Engagement – Fostering stronger relationships with key stakeholders and encouraging collaboration across the financial industry.

> Innovation – Leveraging cutting-edge technology to modernize operations and position DIFC as a leader in global financial innovation.

> Sustainability – Promoting long-term economic, environmental, and social sustainability to support a resilient financial ecosystem.

Fadel Al Ali, Chairman of the DFSA, said: “Our Business Plan for 2025-2026 underscores our dedication to maintaining international standards and best practices. By enhancing our regulatory frameworks and embracing digital transformation, we aim to support the DIFC’s growth and contribute to the prosperity of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. This Plan is a testament to our forward-thinking approach as we navigate the evolving financial landscape.”

Key Priorities for 2025-2026

The DFSA has outlined a set of core priorities that will shape its regulatory and operational efforts over the next two years.

- Advancing Risk-Based Regulation: The DFSA will strengthen its risk-based regulatory approach, ensuring alignment with international standards. This includes active participation in global regulatory discussions, engagement with the regulated community, and enhanced collaboration with authorities across Dubai and the UAE.

- Embracing Innovation and Technology: With artificial intelligence (AI) and fintech rapidly transforming the financial sector, the DFSA is committed to adapting its regulatory framework to provide clarity while safeguarding market integrity. Initiatives such as the Innovation Testing Licence and expanded regulatory sandboxes demonstrate the DFSA’s dedication to supporting financial innovation.

- Strengthening Financial Crime Prevention and Cybersecurity: A key focus of the plan is combatting financial crime and improving cyber resilience. The DFSA will continue working closely with federal authorities to implement Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations and enhance financial crime prevention measures. Additionally, plans are in place to expand the Threat Intelligence Platform internationally, boosting cybersecurity cooperation on a global scale.

- Investing in Talent and Organisational Culture: The DFSA recognizes that a resilient and forward-thinking workforce is essential for future success. As part of its strategy, the authority will introduce new initiatives to attract, develop, and retain talent, with a strong emphasis on nurturing Emirati professionals. This investment in human capital ensures that the organization remains agile and equipped to meet emerging challenges.

A Vision for the Future

The DFSA’s Business Plan for 2025-2026 represents a bold step forward in regulatory innovation, financial security, and global competitiveness. By reinforcing risk-based regulation, technological advancements, and sustainable growth, the DFSA aims to solidify the DIFC’s position as a world-class financial hub, ready to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Ian Johnston, Chief Executive of the DFSA, concluded: “We are committed to ensuring that the DIFC thrives as an international centre for financial services. Our Business Plan emphasises agility, collaboration, proportionate enforcement, a streamlined and transparent licensing process, and regulatory excellence, which are all vital to navigating an ever-evolving global financial landscape.”