DIFC, in partnership with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), will host the Regional Economic Outlook for the Middle East and North Africa on Thursday 22 October at 11:30 am at the DIFC Atrium Moderated by Abeer Abu Omar, the session will feature Jihad Azour, Hasan T. Alhasan, Monica Malik, Dr Carole Nakhle for a discussion on the economic outlook and key developments shaping the region. Register here: cvent.me/0v5akx

Dubai AI Festival 2026 will convene global policymakers, technology leaders, investors and innovators on 26–27 October at Dubai World Trade Centre, advancing international collaboration and accelerating the adoption of artificial intelligence across industries. Organised by Dubai AI Campus at DIFC, in partnership with the Office of the UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, the third edition will take place under the theme "Where Intelligence Meets Opportunity", with attendees from over 100 countries expected, alongside 150+ speakers, 500 investors and 200 exhibitors. From AI governance and investment to enterprise transformation and emerging technologies, the Festival will explore the transition from experimentation to implementation, strengthening the connections between technology, capital and policy that will shape the future of the global AI economy. Register here: dubaiaifestival.com/register…

A new artistic perspective unfolds at Tabari Artspace, where contemporary expression and compelling narratives invite a closer exploration of art and its many interpretations. On view until 8 January 2027.

Dubai AI Festival brings together global leaders, industry pioneers and innovators to advance conversations on the future of artificial intelligence, explore emerging opportunities and accelerate the adoption of technologies transforming industries and economies worldwide. Join us on 26–27 October. Register here: dubaiaifestival.com

Renowned Emirati artist Abdulqader Al Rais shares the stories and inspirations behind his work, reflecting on the influence of heritage, memory and personal experiences throughout his artistic journey. On view at Opera Gallery until 25 October.

Strength, flexibility and balance came together in a DIFC Yogalates session, combining the fluidity of yoga with the precision of Pilates.

In this episode of #DIFCUnplugged, Husni Khuffash, Managing Director, Middle East and Africa at Positron AI, shares his perspectives on the evolving AI landscape, the growing significance of AI inference and the company’s decision to establish its first international office at DIFC. Ahead of the upcoming Dubai AI Festival, the discussion examines the technologies and economic considerations driving AI adoption at scale, and the region’s expanding role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence. Listen to the full episode on Spotify and YouTube.

In Leaders on the Move, leaders from across diverse industries shared valuable perspectives on leadership, innovation and the evolving landscape of their respective sectors. A series of conversations reflecting the depth of expertise, experiences and diversity of thought within DIFC’s community.

DIFC and S&P Global Ratings convened industry leaders and financial experts for the 16th Annual Islamic Finance Conference at The Atrium, DIFC. The conference brought forward perspectives on the outlook for Islamic finance in 2026 and 2027, examining evolving market dynamics, emerging opportunities and the forces shaping the industry’s next phase of growth.

DIFC Family Wealth Centre and the Arab International Women’s Forum convened business leaders from across the region at DIFC for ‘Women-Led Family Business in the Global Economy’, examining the evolving role of women in shaping leadership, governance and succession across family enterprises. The event also marked the launch of the Women in Family Leadership and Governance Programme, developed in collaboration with Hawkamah and AIWF to further strengthen women’s leadership and contribution to the long-term success of family enterprises.

As Chair of the Dubai Sustainable Finance Working Group, DIFC hosted the 14th Clean Energy Business Council Annual Summit, bringing together government leaders, investors, financiers and industry experts to advance dialogue on the future of energy and sustainability across the region. Discussions explored priorities including climate finance, industrial decarbonisation, water and energy security, circularity and the evolving demands shaping MENA’s energy landscape.

Signature dishes, bold flavours and a considered approach to every detail define the experience at Gymkhana, bringing its distinctive culinary character to Gate Village.

Signature dishes, bold flavours and a considered approach to every detail define the experience at Gymkhana, bringing its distinctive culinary character to Gate Village.

China Securities has established its regional office in DIFC, marking a new milestone in the Beijing headquartered investment bank’s international expansion. The new office will serve as a strategic base to support the Group’s engagement with clients, investors and financial institutions across the Middle East, while strengthening connectivity between Chinese, UAE and international capital markets. China Securities joins the UAE’s only cluster of leading Chinese banks and financial institutions in DIFC, further strengthening financial connectivity between China, the UAE and international markets. Read more: difc.com/whats-on/news/china…

An expression of the artist’s vision, a reflection of the viewer’s perspective. Art at AWC Gallery invites a dialogue that unfolds with every closer look.

RB Jones has chosen DIFC to expand its regional presence and bring its specialist underwriting expertise closer to the markets it serves. Focused on construction, energy and property, the firm is establishing its presence in Dubai to support growing demand for sophisticated insurance and risk solutions across the region. As the leading financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region, DIFC continues to attract global insurance and reinsurance firms seeking access to one of the world's fastest-growing markets. #WeChoseDIFC

Dubai has been ranked first globally for FinTech by industry professionals in the latest Global Financial Centres Index, reflecting DIFC’s role in advancing innovation and shaping the future of finance. Dubai also ranked second for Professional Services and sixth worldwide for global reputation, while retaining its leading position for future potential across four consecutive GFCI reports. The results reaffirm Dubai’s standing as the only financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region within the global top ten. Read more: difc.com/whats-on/news/dubai…

Real estate investment is evolving beyond traditional models. In this episode of #DIFCUnplugged, Manar Mahmassani, Co CEO and Co founder of @GetStake, shares the journey behind the platform and its growth from DIFC into international markets. The conversation explores the changing landscape of real estate investment, the role of regulation in building trust and credibility, and how emerging technologies including AI and tokenisation could shape the future of the sector. Listen to the full episode on Spotify, YouTube, and the DIFC App.