Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed has approved a new financial strategy aimed at reinforcing Dubai's global standing as a leading financial hub, with plans to double its GDP contribution and expand asset management.

In an important step towards bolstering Dubai’s economic future, His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired a significant meeting where he sanctioned the ambitious Dubai Financial Sector Strategy (DFSS). This comprehensive plan aims to enhance Dubai’s status as a premier global financial center.

The DFSS sets forth an ambitious roadmap designed not only to solidify Dubai’s position but also to significantly increase its economic contributions. Key objectives include doubling the sector's impact on the emirate's GDP and expanding assets managed within Dubai.

Maktoum bin Mohammed: We approved the Dubai Financial Sector Strategy during the meeting of the Higher Committee for the Development of the Economic and Financial Sector in Dubai, along with its transformative projects...

During this meeting, Sheikh Maktoum evaluated the performance of the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) throughout 2025 and discussed plans by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) aiming to further develop this burgeoning sector.

His Highness remarked on how Dubai has rapidly ascended to become the world's largest licensed Virtual Assets market. Current transaction volumes have reached approximately AED2.5 trillion ($680 billion), reflecting VARA's strong regulatory framework.

The discourse covered implementation strategies for transformative projects under DFSS and assessed ARENA, an IPO platform initiated by DFM. These initiatives aim to propel growth through 15 programs focusing on vital areas such as capital markets, SME financing, virtual assets, and FinTech over three years.

Highlighting this milestone, Sheikh Maktoum stated that these efforts are poised to create innovative opportunities for investors while reinforcing trust in Dubai’s business landscape. He emphasized continuing improvements in capital markets following international standards and applauded VARA for enhancing transparency within virtual asset dealings.

Growing Influence of Virtual Assets

VARA's advancements have been pivotal in establishing Dubai as a key global hub for virtual assets services. With substantial participation from major institutions, assets under management surpassed AED9.6 billion this year alone.

DFM Market Success

The DFM General Index has witnessed impressive growth of 14.7% this year - among top-performing indices worldwide - pushing market capitalisation over AED1 trillion ($270 billion). The momentum underscores strategic goals aligned with maintaining economic vitality as part of Akhbrna News' ongoing coverage around regional developments in finance and economics.