• The DIFC is the leading financial hub for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia. A strategically placed platform for business development in the region is especially appealing to financial institutions.

• It was founded in 2004 pursuant to a number of UAE Federal and Dubai Laws, including Federal Decree No. 35/2004 on the Establishment of a Financial Free Zone in the Emirate of Dubai, Dubai Law No. 9/2004 on the Dubai International Financial Centre (which recognized the financial and administrative independence of the DIFC), and Dubai Law No. 12/2004 on the Judicial Authority at Dubai International Financial Centre (which established along with the DIFC Judicial Authority the DIFC Court System).

• DIFC : The Dubai International Financial Centre.

• DIFCA : The DIFC Authority.

• DFSA : Dubai Financial Services Authority.

The DIFC is strategically placed to offer a competitive platform between Western Europe and East Asia for expansion into the Gulf region, especially for financial players.

The DIFC is comprised of three independent bodies:

• the DIFC Authority (DIFCA), the central authority whose job is to develop an overall strategy and supervision for the Centre,