The Shift to Private Capital: Dubai’s Position in Global Finance
Dubai International Financial Centre Reports Major Advancement
On September 8, 2025, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) unveiled the latest edition of its Future of Finance report series, aptly titled “Shift to Private Capital.” This report delves into the transformational role that private wealth is playing in reshaping financial markets globally and underscores Dubai’s emergence as a premier destination for high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and private capital investors.
Global Dynamics of Private Wealth
The report provides a compelling narrative about the growing trend of private market investments. As we look ahead to 2030, projections indicate that assets within private markets could surpass a staggering $30 trillion. A crucial driver of this shift is the remarkable expansion of global private wealth, which has now reached an unprecedented $471 trillion. This wealth has accumulated at a rate almost eight times faster than public wealth since 1995, illustrating a significant change in investor preferences.
One of the key topics tackled in the report is the anticipated $124 trillion intergenerational wealth transfer over the next two decades. Younger heirs increasingly gravitate towards investments centered around technology, sustainability, and social impact. This generational shift is not just a trend; it is fundamentally reshaping the financial landscape, with private wealth solutions becoming ever more personalized and sophisticated to meet these new demands.
Dubai’s Unique Advantages for Private Wealth
Dubai’s ascension as a global hub for private wealth is no small feat. The city combines the stability and institutional robustness of established financial markets with the agility of emerging economies. By 2025, Dubai has climbed to 12th place in the Global Financial Centres Index, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with global heavyweights like London, New York, and Paris, thanks to its extensive financial capabilities.
The DIFC plays a critical role in this narrative of growth. As of the first half of 2025, it hosts 7,700 active companies—a 25% year-on-year increase. This thriving ecosystem includes over 440 wealth and asset managers, 85 hedge funds, and a robust network of private equity and venture capital firms. Notably, the DIFC accommodates around 1,035 family-related businesses, making it an attractive environment for private wealth to flourish.
Diverse Players in the Ecosystem
Several influential financial entities have chosen DIFC and Dubai as their regional base, amplifying the city’s reputation as a leader in private markets. Companies such as Alarabi Investments, Baron Capital, and PIMCO have set up shop there, enabling a vibrant mix of investment strategies and opportunities. These firms are crucial in shaping Dubai into a fertile ground for private capital, attracting both regional and global investors who seek a stable yet dynamic market.
Insights from Industry Leaders
This report features contributions from prominent figures in global finance, showcasing diverse perspectives on the future of private capital. Notable inputs come from Mark Oshida of Cambridge Associates, Philippe Amarante from Henley & Partners, and Antoine Colson, CEO of the International Private Equity Market (IPEM). Their insights underscore the potential of Dubai as a future-oriented financial hub.
Additionally, IPEM has announced its first Middle East preview at DIFC scheduled for December 2025, followed by a significant event during Dubai Future Finance Week in May 2026. This move signals a growing alignment between Dubai’s financial infrastructure and global investment trends.
Strengthening Connections and Opportunities
Antoine Colson, CEO of IPEM, expressed enthusiasm about Dubai’s unique positioning. He noted that the city’s ability to align long-term capital with a forward-thinking vision, coupled with a robust regulatory framework, makes it an ideal environment for IPEM’s expansion. This indicates that Dubai is not merely keeping pace with global financial transformations but is actively contributing to and shaping these trends.
Future Implications for Dubai in Global Finance
The findings in the “Shift to Private Capital” report reiterate that Dubai is not just a participant in the world of finance but is at the forefront of transformative changes. By facilitating the growth of private markets and creating a tailored ecosystem for wealth management, Dubai is solidifying its role as a pivotal player in the global financial arena.
For further insights, the complete report is available via this link.
