Sheikh Mohammed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, the honorary president of the UAE Traders Association, has emphasized that the Dubai government is embracing a forward-thinking economic vision focused on empowering financial institutions and individuals within the financial sector. This vision also aims to enhance the business environment and develop legislative and infrastructural frameworks that can attract innovation and investments across various financial services. He highlighted that hosting the 48th ICA conference and exhibition from November 13 to 15, 2025, underscores the UAE’s established role as a global hub for financial markets and fintech.
During his opening remarks at the conference, he stated that the ICA48 serves as a practical platform for exchanging experiences and discussing best practices in trading, liquidity management, and risk management. He reaffirmed that the anticipated discussions and outcomes will contribute to the stability of financial markets and the development of innovative financing tools that enhance the competitiveness of financial centers both regionally and globally.
He stressed the importance of collaboration among regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and international partners to ensure balanced and sustainable growth of the financial services sector in the UAE and the wider region. He noted the increasing involvement of young traders from the UAE in financial markets, attributed to their growing awareness of investment opportunities and their advanced technical and professional skills. The broad participation in the conference reflects the UAE’s status as a global financial center, gathering around 575 experts from 40 countries to deliberate on the development of trading sectors within the UAE, region, and worldwide. The event taking place in Dubai symbolizes the international financial community’s trust in the emirate as a pivotal link between East and West.
Additionally, Dr. Mahmoud Mohieldin, the UN Secretary-General’s envoy for financing sustainable development, affirmed that the UAE’s economy is poised for continued positive growth in 2025 and 2026, supported by economic stability, increased government spending, and rising investments in non-oil sectors across various emirates. This reinforces the attractiveness of the investment environment and the confidence of foreign capital.
Dr. Mohieldin also discussed significant challenges facing the global economy amid slowing growth, fluctuating interest rates, and climate change impacts. He pointed out the strategic necessity of directing more capital towards sustainable infrastructure projects and a low-carbon economy. He underscored that robust financial centers, particularly Dubai, are well-positioned to play a crucial role in mobilizing long-term financing through innovative financing tools and broader public-private partnerships. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of aligning sustainable finance agendas with financial market development plans to create new investment opportunities, support the stability of developing economies, and improve resource allocation efficiency.