AI and emerging technologies driving the future of finance

DIFC and Asia House Unveil Future of Finance 2025 Report on AI’s Transformative Impact on Global Finance

Dubai, UAE – The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), in collaboration with Asia House, has released the third edition of its Future of Finance series, spotlighting the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies in reshaping the global financial services industry.

The report highlights how AI, blockchain, cloud computing, and digital assets are redefining financial operations, driving efficiency, expanding inclusion, and enabling faster, more secure transactions. It underscores Dubai and the UAE’s rapid ascent as global leaders in financial innovation, powered by robust regulatory frameworks, AI strategy, and dedicated innovation hubs.

Key findings include:

• AI is revolutionizing financial services, enhancing customer experiences, fraud detection, compliance, and investment strategies.

• Digital finance is reducing barriers to access in emerging markets through mobile banking, AI-driven credit scoring, and alternative lending.

• Blockchain and digital assets, including CBDCs and stablecoins, are accelerating cross-border payments and financial democratization.

• Cloud computing enables operational agility, real-time analytics, and cost-effective scaling.

• AI-driven automation and upskilling are reshaping the financial workforce, requiring new capabilities in data science and governance.

The report features expert insights from leaders at Swift, Ripple, Microsoft UAE, and CAMB.AI, emphasizing the need for responsible AI adoption, regulatory clarity, and public-private collaboration.

Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority, stated:“As AI reshapes the financial world, Dubai is not just adapting — it is leading. Through the DIFC Innovation Hub and AI Campus, we are creating a dynamic ecosystem for global financial technology advancement.”

The report signals an urgent call to action for financial institutions to adopt AI-ready strategies, partner with FinTech disruptors, and leverage innovation clusters like DIFC to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.