The DFSA and The Union of Arab Securities Authorities Lead Regional Discussion on Innovation and Regulatory Advancement
The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), the independent regulator of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), in collaboration with the Union of Arab Securities Authorities (UASA), hosted a Regulatory Insights Session to promote innovation in the financial services sector across the Arab region. This high-level session, held in the DIFC, brought together key representatives from regional financial regulatory bodies and capital market authorities to discuss the evolving challenges, opportunities, and regulatory strategies in financial services.
The session, part of Dubai AI Week 2025, focused on integrating financial technology, digital assets, artificial intelligence, and other emerging innovations into regulatory frameworks. The event highlighted the importance of regional cooperation among Arab securities regulators to drive sustainable growth, investor protection, and market integrity across the region.
Fadel Al Ali, Chairman of the DFSA, welcomed the initiative, stating:
“Innovation is no longer a concept of the future – it is a present-day imperative. At the DFSA, we believe that by fostering collaborative dialogue and sharing regulatory insights, we can build a dynamic, forward-looking financial ecosystem that balances innovation with strong regulatory safeguards. Our partnership with the Union of Arab Securities Authorities reflects a shared commitment to shaping a resilient and competitive financial future for Dubai, the UAE, and the wider region.”
HE Dr Tamy Bin Ahmed Bin Ali Al-Binali, Chairman of UASA, added:
“Our region is rich in opportunity, and innovation is key to unlocking its full potential. This session marks an important step in aligning regulatory visions and approaches across Arab securities authorities. Through collaboration, we aim to empower our markets, ensure investor confidence, and embrace technologies that are reshaping financial services globally.”
The event included discussions on topics such as the DFSA’s Innovation Testing Licence, the DIFC financial services ecosystem, and the critical role of regional cooperation in accelerating innovation.
Cyber Threat Intelligence Platform Update
The DFSA also provided an update on its Cyber Threat Intelligence Platform, which was established in 2020 as the first regulator-led platform of its kind in the Middle East. The platform plays a vital role in enhancing the cybersecurity landscape within the DIFC. Since its launch, it has issued over 46 million compromise indicators, helping businesses strengthen their cyber defence strategies.
Moving forward, the DFSA plans to scale the platform by adding new data feeds to promote further threat intelligence and information sharing. Businesses in the DIFC are encouraged to leverage the platform for actionable intelligence to safeguard their operations.
Innovation Hub Tour
The session concluded with a tour of the DIFC Innovation Hub, a vibrant facility designed to foster innovation, enterprise, and talent across future-oriented industries. The hub aims to generate new economic value by encouraging entrepreneurship and technological advancement. The session wrapped up with a shared commitment to further cooperation and knowledge exchange through future joint initiatives.
For more information, contact:
Level 13, The Gate, PO Box 75850, Dubai, UAE
Telephone: +971 (0)4 362 1500
www.dfsa.ae
