Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
A Dubai financial free zone with its own common-law-based legal system and regulator, the DFSA.
Overview
Firms in the DIFC are regulated by the DFSA rather than onshore UAE financial regulators.
Authorities in this jurisdiction include the DFSA.
This glossary covers one authority here: DFSA.
Check the official sources below for legal scope, applicable dates and exceptions. This entry is an explanatory reference, not legal advice.
Why it matters
Operating here brings this jurisdiction’s laws and authorities into scope, on top of any parent jurisdiction’s.
Who it affects
Organisations established in, or serving customers in, Dubai International Financial Centre.
Where it sits
Ten linked steps connect where you operate to the proof that you complied.
- 01Jurisdiction
- 02Industry
- 03Activity
- 04Authority
- 05Regulation
- 06Requirement
- 07Guidance
- 08Control
- 09Evidence
- 10Enforcement
Hierarchy
- Part of
- United Arab Emirates
- Members & authorities
- DFSA
Connections
The terms most closely tied to DIFC. Select one to open it.
What to do about it
- 1Establish your nexus: establishment, licences, customers or employees there.
- 2List the authorities with power over you there.
- 3Map local requirements and how they differ from the parent jurisdiction.
- 4Track local guidance and enforcement.
From requirement to evidence.
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