DIFC remains a critical link between East and West and a central pillar of Dubai's economy. The DIFC expansion directly supports the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double Dubai's economy by 2033 and position the emirate among the world's top four financial centres. His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum described DIFC Zabeel District as a strategic step that will accommodate rapid growth in global financial and technology firms while maintaining a flexible, innovation-driven business environment.
A defining feature of the DIFC expansion is its focus on future technologies. Over 1 million sq. ft. will house the world's largest innovation hub. The district will include the world's first purpose-built AI Campus. Facilities are designed for 6,000+ businesses and 30,000 tech professionals. The district will also introduce a Gaming and Immersive Technologies Hub, supporting next-generation gaming, simulation, and digital content creation.
Aligned with Dubai's Education 33 (E33) strategy, DIFC Zabeel District will become a major hub for higher education, attracting top-ranked global universities. The DIFC Academy will expand tenfold to 370,000 sq. ft. His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum stated, "In Dubai, we do not wait for change, we make it. We build the future with urgency and purpose. We turn dreams into reality through leadership." He added that Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a global finance and business hub by launching landmark projects that combine economic growth with quality of life, making the city a top destination for global businesses and talent.
The DIFC expansion will double DIFC's capacity, allowing it to host over 42,000 companies, a workforce of more than 125,000 people, and more than 1 million sq. ft., supporting up to 50,000 learners annually. The expansion will also feature a landmark art pavilion, commercial and residential towers, hotels, retail, and a conference centre, as well as green open spaces designed for wellbeing and connectivity.
The DIFC expansion will be delivered in six phases. The first phase opens in 2030, with full masterplan completion by 2040. The district will connect seamlessly to the existing DIFC Gate District via a signature bridge and will benefit from enhanced transport infrastructure and sustainable urban design.
With more than 20 years of success since its launch in 2004, DIFC continues to evolve as the region's only financial centre operating at scale across all business sectors. The DIFC expansion through Zabeel District positions Dubai as a future-ready global financial capital, offering a powerful mix of investment opportunity, innovation, and lifestyle appeal.
