Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, and President of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), today met with Georges Elhedery, Group CEO of HSBC, at His Highness’s office in Dubai.
The meeting reviewed the longstanding relationship between the UAE and HSBC and explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation in banking, finance and investment. Discussions highlighted the UAE’s expanding financial sector, as well as its advanced infrastructure and regulatory environment, which provide a strong foundation for international financial institutions to grow their operations across the region and beyond.
His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed emphasised the importance of partnerships with leading global financial institutions in supporting economic growth, facilitating international trade and investment, and advancing innovation in financial services.
The meeting also focused on Dubai’s growing role as a global financial hub and the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, particularly its goal of positioning the emirate among the world’s top four financial centres. Discussions highlighted Dubai’s ability to attract international financial institutions, investment and highly skilled talent, as well as its role in connecting global markets.
Participants also discussed developments in global banking, particularly the role of digital transformation and artificial intelligence in enhancing financial services and responding to evolving market needs.
The meeting was attended by His Excellency Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; His Excellency Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers; His Excellency Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of the DIFC Authority; and His Excellency Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation.