Company registrations at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) rose by 32% in the first half of the year, with 1,081 new companies joining the hub. This growth reflects a broader trend of economic diversification in the Gulf region, as countries move away from oil dependency and attract firms in financial services, asset management, and hedge funds. The total number of active companies in DIFC reached 7,700, marking a 25% increase from the previous year, indicating a robust demand for financial services in Dubai.

The number of hedge funds operating in DIFC surged by 72%, reaching a total of 85, with notable new entrants like RV Capital and Silver Point Capital. Additionally, wealth management firms increased by 19%, and family business entities grew by 73%. This influx of firms is driven by favorable tax conditions, regulatory clarity, and the presence of major sovereign wealth funds, positioning DIFC as a leading financial hub in the region.