Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s positions among the world’s leading financial centres reflect years of long-term investment by the UAE in infrastructure, regulation, talent and its wider business environment.
The September 2026 edition of the Global Financial Centres Index places Dubai ninth globally and Abu Dhabi thirteenth, with the two cities ranking first and second respectively in the Middle East and Africa.
Abu Dhabi climbed eight places, while Dubai retained its position among the world’s top ten financial centres.
These rankings reflect years of work to make the UAE an attractive place for financial institutions to operate, invest and recruit. Having two cities among the world’s leading financial centres strengthens the country’s ability to attract international business and supports growth across the wider economy.
Dubai Retains Its Global Standing
Dubai’s ninth-place ranking puts it alongside leading international financial centres including New York, London, Hong Kong and Singapore.
Although the city slipped two positions from seventh, its underlying score improved. This suggests that the change in ranking reflects stronger competition among the world’s leading financial centres rather than a weakening of Dubai’s position.
Dubai continues to strengthen its offering. Its established infrastructure, international talent pool and financial services sector remain important advantages as it competes with other major global financial hubs.
Abu Dhabi’s Rise Reflects Growing Institutional Presence
Abu Dhabi’s eight-place rise comes as international asset managers continue to establish and expand their operations in the emirate.
ADGM reported a 54% year-on-year increase in assets under management in the first half of 2026.
Major financial firms establishing, launching or expanding their presence during the period included Bain Capital, Barings, Hillhouse Investment, Rokos Capital Management and Man Group.
The growing presence of international fund managers provides an indication of how global institutions view Abu Dhabi’s longer-term potential.
These firms bring expertise, capital and business activity into the market, helping deepen the financial sector while also creating opportunities in areas beyond financial services.
Long-Term Growth Prospects Remain in Focus
The UAE’s progress reflects sustained investment in infrastructure, regulatory frameworks that support financial businesses, and visa and residency options designed to attract investors and skilled professionals.
The impact can extend well beyond the financial sector.
As international institutions establish offices and expand their teams, they can support employment, increase demand for commercial and residential property, and contribute to activity across professional services and other parts of the economy.
Regional geopolitical uncertainty remains a significant influence on near-term market sentiment.
However, the continued expansion of international financial institutions suggests that many firms are taking a much longer-term view of the UAE.
Short-term market sentiment will remain sensitive to developments across the region, but institutions typically make expansion and investment decisions over a much longer horizon.
If geopolitical tensions ease, the UAE’s expanding financial sector and its ability to continue attracting international businesses could provide further support for investor confidence and local markets.
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