Mohammed Al Hashimi, the Chairman of the UAE Financial Markets Traders Association, has stated that the UAE is solidifying its position as a global economic and investment hub, thanks to its flexible regulatory environment and advanced digital infrastructure. He highlighted that financial innovation and digital transformation have become central to the development strategy within financial markets. The upcoming 48th conference and exhibition of the Arab Federation of Financial Market Traders, scheduled to take place from November 13 to 15 in Dubai, will serve as a vital regional platform for discussing the integration of technology with investment markets.
In his remarks, he emphasized that financial markets are significant drivers of economic growth due to their role in mobilizing resources and directing them towards productive investments, which in turn create job opportunities and enhance gross domestic product. He noted that the combined market capitalization of the UAE’s financial markets reached nearly 4 trillion dirhams by the end of the first half of 2025, with expectations to maintain this momentum, reflecting strong confidence from both local and international investors.
He further explained that the adoption of artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, and big data analytics has transformed the trading and investment landscape, allowing for immediate access to information, the provision of smart trading services, and improved market efficiency. He pointed out that technological advancement has become an economic necessity rather than a luxury to meet challenges, with the UAE leading many emerging economies in this regard. Financial innovation is a critical factor in boosting competitiveness, especially with the rise of new financial instruments like digital assets and smart funds.
Regarding Dubai, he mentioned that it has become a global model for the integration of financial and technological infrastructures, leveraging its geographical location and proactive plans to establish itself as a key link between the East and West. He noted that the Dubai Stock Exchange attracted over 20 new listings in 2024 alone, with a market capitalization exceeding 120 billion dirhams, which clearly indicates its growing appeal.