The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has officially registered its 100th hedge fund, solidifying its position as one of the top five global hubs for hedge fund managers. This milestone marks a significant leap for the centre, which has seen the number of registered hedge funds double from 50 at the beginning of 2024. Among these, an impressive 81 firms manage assets exceeding one billion dollars.
This rapid growth is reflected in the influx of new hedge funds in 2025, including prominent names such as Baron Capital Management, BlueCrest Capital, and Naya Capital Management. Other notable newcomers include Nine Masts Capital, North Rock Capital, Oak Hill Advisors, Pearl Diver Capital, Select Equity Group, Strategic Investment Group, Silver Point Capital, Squarepoint Capital, and Welwing Capital Group. These firms join established players like Balyasny, BlackRock, Blue Owl, and Brevan Howard.
The DIFC’s appeal is attributed to its strategic location, allowing hedge fund managers to trade across Asian, European, and American markets. The centre also offers access to a deep pool of talent and a robust network of ultra-high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and sovereign wealth funds.
His Excellency Arif Amiri, CEO of the DIFC Authority, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating, “Becoming a leading hedge funds centre reflects the maturity of the DIFC platform as well as the confidence of its participants.” He noted that the commitment to client focus and industry partnerships drives product innovation, which is essential for the continued growth of the centre.
Innovation and Growth in Alternative Investments
A key aspect of DIFC’s growth is the establishment of the DIFC Funds Centre, a pioneering asset management co-working space that accommodates industry giants alongside mid-sized firms and startups. This facility enhances collaboration and innovation within the hedge fund community.
More than 85% of hedge fund managers based in DIFC have the capability to raise and manage private and sovereign capital from the centre. Recent reports from DIFC highlighted that technological advancements, regulatory reforms, and broader investor access are propelling investments into alternative assets, which are increasingly viewed as vital components of diversified portfolios.
The wealth and asset management sector within DIFC continues to experience rapid expansion, now encompassing over 470 firms. Managers benefit from access to the highest concentration of private wealth in the Middle East, which includes more than 1,250 family-related business entities based in the centre.
As DIFC continues to attract hedge fund managers and build its reputation as a global financial hub, it positions itself as a significant player in the evolving landscape of alternative investments. The centre’s growth not only reflects its operational capabilities but also its ability to influence the global financial environment from Dubai.
