Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is entering a new stage of development. The first phase of the project Zabeel District, at a cost 20 billion dirhams, will be part of a large-scale expansion of the financial center and will be completed by 2029—2030.

This is a strategic event for the Dubai real estate market, as DIFC It is traditionally one of the most expensive and popular business locations in the city.

What will be included in the first phase of Zabeel District

The first phase of the project involves the construction of about 3.7 million square feet and includes:

• next-generation office spaces;
• architecturally significant buildings;
• AI Campus and infrastructure for tech companies;
• art gallery;
• widening DIFC Academy up to 370,000 square feet.

This set of functions forms not just a business district, but multifunctional ecosystem, focused on finance, technology and creative industries.

Why expand DIFC important for the real estate market

DIFC — one of Dubai's most stable business clusters, showing steady growth even in the face of global volatility. The Zabeel District extension means:

• growth in demand for Class A office property;
• increased interest in residential projects near DIFC;
• an influx of international companies and professionals;
• increase in rental rates and asset capitalization in adjacent areas.

The creation of 125,000 jobs under the full project will further increase pressure on the housing and service real estate market.

Financial stability as a factor of investor confidence

Indicators DIFC 2025 confirms the financial stability of the zone: an increase in profits, revenue and assets, as well as a record number of new companies. This creates a high level of confidence on the part of institutional and private investors.

The fact that the first phase of Zabeel District will be mainly financed by internal resources reduces the financial risks of the project and increases its investment attractiveness.

DIFC and the future of financial technology

Special attention should be paid to the emphasis DIFC upon FinTech and AI. These areas already form about 20% of the center's business community. The allocation of large spaces for innovative companies enhances the role of DIFC as a point of attraction for capital, talent and technology startups.

For the real estate market, this means long-term demand for offices, serviced apartments and premium housing near the financial center.

Conclusion: Zabeel District will strengthen its position DIFC as a key business district

The first phase of Zabeel District is more than just an expansion DIFC, but a step towards shaping a new scale in Dubai's financial and business core. For investors and property buyers, the project confirms that DIFC and surrounding areas will remain among the most promising areas for investment in the long term.