Dubai – 3 November 2026
The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) among financial services firms operating within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has more than doubled since 2024, according to the latest survey published by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).
The DFSA’s 2026 Artificial Intelligence Survey found that 71% of surveyed authorised firms now use at least one form of AI, compared with 52% in 2025 and 33% in 2024. The findings reflect the growing role of AI in the financial services industry, as companies increasingly incorporate the technology into their daily operations.
Generative AI has also seen significant growth, with adoption rising from 22% in 2024 to 67% in 2026. Among firms already using AI, 94% reported using generative AI. These tools are being applied across various internal business functions, including human resources, legal services and finance.
The survey also highlighted increased use of AI in internal systems and controls. In 2026, 52% of generative AI users reported applying the technology in areas such as auditing, compliance and risk management, up from 39% in 2025. However, its use in activities directly affecting clients and other external stakeholders remains more limited.
Despite the growing adoption, the DFSA noted that the level of AI integration varies between firms. While some have expanded its use across wider business operations, others are still testing applications or introducing them on a smaller scale. The survey also found that 84% of respondents expect their use of AI to increase over the next three years.
Alongside this growth, the report highlights the importance of responsible AI use, particularly as financial firms increasingly rely on third-party applications and cloud-based systems. These developments can introduce risks relating to data security, service continuity and oversight. The survey found that 61% of firms using AI have established an AI governance framework, while others are still developing their policies and monitoring arrangements.
The DFSA will use the findings to inform its risk-based supervisory approach, including its assessment of how financial institutions manage AI-related risks, governance and reliance on external technology providers.
The results underline how AI is becoming an increasingly important part of DIFC’s financial services landscape, while highlighting the need for firms to balance technological development with appropriate controls, accountability and regulatory oversight.
Source: DFSA News
