Innovation and investment
From the office
Perspectives
Selected developments in Dubai's investment climate, business ecosystem and international connections.
This week
Edition of
Selected headlines · Open a headline to read the source
Capital markets
Dubai Financial Market trading value rises 22% in nine months
Financial technology
Robinhood selects DIFC for its Middle East headquarters
Innovation and investment
In focus
Dubai announces Nad Zabeel research and innovation campus
Dubai has announced Nad Zabeel, a planned research, development and innovation campus in Zabeel Park. The campus is intended to house laboratories, research centres and incubators, bringing together technology companies, universities, investors and government bodies. Construction is expected to be completed within five years under Dubai Future Foundation supervision.
Also noted
Dubai & UAE- Capital markets
Dubai Financial Market trading value rises 22% in nine months
Dubai Financial Market reported AED162 billion in trading value for the first nine months of 2026, up 22% from the same period in 2025. Average daily traded value rose 25% to AED883 million, while the DFM General Index was down 1.4% for the year to the end of September.
- Trade and logistics
Dubai Chambers and DHL Express agree support for exporters
Dubai Chambers and DHL Express signed a memorandum of understanding to support local companies expanding internationally. The agreement provides for preferential shipping rates and tailored packages for Dubai Chamber of Commerce members, alongside customs support, trade advice and training for SMEs.
- Infrastructure investment
DEWA International and Shanghai Electric explore global projects
DEWA International and Shanghai Electric have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore energy, water and infrastructure opportunities in global markets. The framework covers identifying and structuring potential projects and participating in tenders. Areas of cooperation include renewable power, battery storage, desalination, electricity networks, green hydrogen and green ammonia.
- Financial technology
Robinhood selects DIFC for its Middle East headquarters
Robinhood has received Dubai Financial Services Authority authorisation to introduce its retail investing platform from DIFC, according to the financial centre. The company plans to launch its product suite in 2027. DIFC says the authorisation covers trading and custody across ten approved asset classes, including equities, exchange-traded funds, crypto and investment tokens.
- Commodities and economic zones
DMCC announces diamond education partnership at Dubai conference
At the Dubai Diamond Conference, DMCC announced an education partnership between Dubai Design Academy and HRD Antwerp covering diamond grading, gemmology and jewellery design. DMCC said Dubai’s diamond trade totalled USD41.7 billion in 2025, with natural diamonds representing 95.8% by value.
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