H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Announces AED100B DIFC Expansion Project

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Dubai’s DIFC Zabeel District to accommodate 125,000 professionals and accelerate its ambition to rank among the world’s top four financial centres.

In a landmark announcement on Monday, January 27, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, unveiled a Dh100 billion (AED100B / approx. $27.22B) expansion of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The project, known as the Zabeel District, marks the next major phase in Dubai’s strategic vision to establish the city as one of the top four global financial hubs.

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Unveiled during a ceremony at the site adjacent to the existing DIFC Gate District, the new development will span over 1.5 square kilometres (17 million square feet) and is designed to accommodate around 125,000 professionals when complete.

Sheikh Mohammed highlighted that the Zabeel District expansion will feature world-class technological infrastructure tailored to the needs of financial firms and global investors. The project also aims to bolster innovation and knowledge sectors with the expansion of the Financial Centre Academy, which will serve up to 50,000 students annually.

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In addition, the development will include a one-million-square-foot innovation hub focused on the digital economy, projected to host 6,000 companies and employ 30,000 specialists in artificial intelligence and related technologies.

“Our goal is to be among the world’s top four financial centres,” Sheikh Mohammed said, underscoring Dubai’s commitment to innovation, growth, and global competitiveness.

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Beyond finance and tech, the project will integrate arts, culture, and convention facilities, alongside advanced digital infrastructure to support future industries. These additions aim to enhance DIFC’s appeal as a dynamic business and lifestyle destination.

DIFC’s role as a fiscal hub has steadily grown since its inception in 2004, with the centre hosting nearly 7,700 active registered companies and a workforce of almost 48,000 professionals in 2025. The new Zabeel District is expected to build on this success by attracting international firms and talent.

The launch of the Dh100B expansion underscores Dubai’s long-term economic plans and its continued emphasis on diversification, innovation, and global leadership in finance.