Dubai, UAE – 28 January 2026
Dubai Launches DIFC Zabeel District, an AED 100 billion Expansion Set to Redefine Global Finance
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, today launched DIFC Zabeel District, a landmark expansion of the Dubai International Financial Centre that will further strengthen Dubai’s position as the leading financial hub for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, while reinforcing its status as a global destination for business and lifestyle.
Covering a site area of 7.1 million square feet and a total gross floor area of 17.7 million square feet, DIFC Zabeel District represents the largest demand led expansion of a financial centre in the region, with an estimated gross development value exceeding AED 100 billion.
His Highness said Dubai’s progress has always been driven by action rather than anticipation. “Dubai is a story of ambition with no limits. We do not wait for change we create it. We turn ideas into reality and lead by example,” he said.
He added that Dubai continues to enhance its global standing through forward looking projects that combine world class business infrastructure with a high quality of life, making the city a preferred destination for companies, investors and talent from around the world.
The DIFC Zabeel District will significantly expand DIFC’s capacity, enabling it to accommodate more than 42,000 companies, support a workforce of over 125,000 professionals, and dedicate more than one million square feet to future technologies and artificial intelligence. The development will integrate commercial, residential, educational and innovation focused spaces, reinforcing DIFC’s role as a vital engine of Dubai’s economy and a bridge connecting global markets.
The launch ceremony took place at the Zabeel site adjacent to the existing DIFC Gate District and was attended by senior members of Dubai’s leadership, including His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, along with ministers and senior officials.
Speaking at the event, His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the project reflects Dubai’s commitment to building a fully integrated financial ecosystem that supports innovation and sustainable growth. He noted that the development aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the emirate’s economy by 2033 and position Dubai among the world’s top four financial centres.
DIFC Zabeel District will be developed in six phases, with the first phase scheduled to open in 2030 and full completion expected by 2040. The masterplan includes a central boulevard, commercial towers, residences, hotels, retail, cultural spaces, and extensive green areas designed to promote connectivity, wellbeing and sustainability.
The expansion will also house the world’s largest innovation hub and the first purpose built AI Campus, alongside facilities for education, gaming, immersive technologies and creative industries. Designed as a seamless extension of the existing DIFC, the new district will be connected via a signature bridge and supported by enhanced transport infrastructure.
With its scale, ambition and integrated design, DIFC Zabeel District marks a defining step in Dubai’s journey to shape the future of global finance and innovation.
