Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has introduced a pioneering Dubai AI license to attract a new wave of AI-driven companies to the emirate. This innovative license is designed to position Dubai as a key global hub for artificial intelligence, aligning with DIFC’s strategic focus on technology, finance, and business. By offering this license, DIFC aims to foster a supportive ecosystem for AI companies, making Dubai an attractive destination for AI firms seeking a robust regulatory and business framework.

In addition to the new AI license, DIFC has launched an "AI as a Service" model. This service enables companies to evaluate their AI readiness, identify potential opportunities, receive strategic recommendations, and implement AI-driven transformations. By providing tailored support, DIFC aims to help businesses effectively integrate AI into their operations, facilitating growth and innovation across various sectors.

These announcements were made at the inaugural Dubai AI & Web3 Festival, a major event held in September that brought together 6,800 delegates from over 100 countries. The two-day festival was a showcase for emerging technologies, with over 100 exhibitors presenting the latest advancements in AI and Web3. Attendees included government representatives, academic experts, industry leaders, and representatives from the AI and Web3 sectors, underscoring the event’s importance as a platform for innovation and cross-industry collaboration.

Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority, emphasized the role of innovation in shaping the future of Dubai’s finance and technology ecosystem. He noted, “Our culture of innovation serves as the foundation for propelling the region’s biggest ecosystem for business, finance, and emerging technologies.”

Amiri also shared updates on the Dubai AI Campus, which has attracted over 120 companies, surpassing its first-year goal of 75 firms. Looking ahead, DIFC plans to expand the AI Campus to over 100,000 square feet by 2028, bringing in more than 500 AI companies, creating over 3,000 jobs, and attracting $300 million in investments. This ambitious roadmap reflects DIFC’s commitment to establishing Dubai as a premier AI hub.

DIFC’s initiatives are designed to create a fertile environment for businesses to explore and implement AI. The AI licence and AI Campus expansions highlight DIFC’s proactive approach in catering to the evolving needs of tech companies, establishing Dubai as a go-to destination for AI and Web3 advancements.

The DIFC Free Zone offers unique benefits, including 100% foreign ownership, top notch ecosystem and a robust regulatory framework under English common law. These advantages make DIFC an appealing choice for companies looking to leverage Dubai’s strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and favorable business environment.

If you need assistance with the setup of an entity in DIFC or with any other related company formation in UAE, restructuring, local partner, PRO support or any other related service, please contact us on +971 4 270 3400 email us at Dubai@sovereigngroup.com or complete the contact form below and we will be delighted to assist.