Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) announced the launch of its largest-ever expansion project – DIFC Za'abeel District. This ambitious plan, with an estimated gross development value exceeding AED 100 billion (USD 27.2 billion), marks a decisive step in consolidating Dubai's position as a leading global financial hub.

Shaping Change, Not Awaiting It

"We don’t wait for change in Dubai, we make it. We turn ambitions into tangible outcomes that speak the language of leadership," stated His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the launch ceremony. He emphasized that DIFC Za'abeel District is a pivotal initiative to advance the financial sector in Dubai and worldwide, serving as a crucial nexus for investment and innovation connecting East and West.

His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, and President of DIFC, noted that the project is a robust response to the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). It aims to lead the transformation of the financial sector by creating a comprehensive ecosystem integrating infrastructure with regulatory frameworks, supporting Dubai's goal to double its economy by 2033 and rank among the world's top four financial centres.

Unprecedented Scale, Ambitious Vision

Spanning a site area of 7.1 million sq. ft. with a total gross floor area of 17.7 million sq. ft., DIFC Za'abeel District represents the largest demand-led expansion of a financial centre in the region. Upon full completion, DIFC's capacity will see a transformational increase, poised to host over 42,000 companies and a workforce of more than 125,000, solidifying its role as the undisputed financial heart of the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region.

Focus on the Future: Technology, Innovation, and Talent

A central highlight of the expansion is its significant commitment to future technologies:

• World's Largest Innovation & AI Campus: Over 1 million sq. ft. is dedicated to housing the world's largest integrated innovation hub and the first purpose-built AI campus, designed to serve more than 6,000 tech firms and 30,000 specialists.

• Gaming & Immersive Technologies Hub: A dedicated centre aims to establish Dubai as a global powerhouse for next-generation gaming, simulation, and digital content creation.

• Education Hub: The district plans to attract top-tier universities ranked within the global top 25, while the DIFC Academy will expand tenfold with an annual capacity for 50,000 learners, creating a regional talent incubator for fintech and business.

Building a Vibrant Community: Integrating Work, Life, and Culture

DIFC Za'abeel District is envisioned not just as a financial and business precinct but as a dynamic, comprehensive community:

• Comprehensive Amenities: The masterplan includes upscale residential units, hotels, a conference centre, luxury retail, and diverse dining options, connected by a central boulevard.

• Art and Culture: The district will feature a first-of-its-kind art pavilion and spaces for landmark art and architecture, continuing DIFC's legacy as Dubai's home for arts and culture.

• Greenery and Connectivity: The design prioritizes green spaces, biodiversity, and walkability, seamlessly linking to the existing DIFC Gate District via a signature bridge, forming an integrated loop.

Phased Implementation: A Vision to 2040

The expansion will be developed across six phases. The first phase is scheduled to open to the public in 2030, with the entire masterplan expected to be completed by 2040. Site preparation for the initial phase is now underway.

Since its inception in 2004, DIFC has been a key engine for Dubai's economic growth. This AED 100 billion Za'abeel District expansion represents not merely a physical enlargement but a strategic investment in the future of finance, innovation ecosystems, and quality of life, laying the foundation for Dubai's sustained prosperity for the next two decades and attracting global capital and talent.