Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading financial hub in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia region (MEASA), today marked its first participation in the annual GITEX Technology Week, in collaboration with Smart Dubai. Participation comes as part of DIFC’s ongoing efforts to support the Smart Dubai initiative and to promote innovation and Smart Finance in the UAE and the wider region.

DIFC inaugurated its participation with the launch of “DIFC Connect”, the official Mobile App for DIFC which aims to offer an interactive platform that enhances the residents and visitors’ experience around the Centre.

Alya Al Zarooni, Senior Vice President of Operations, of DIFC Authority, commented: “Innovation sits at the core of what we do at DIFC. It defines our culture and the values we stand for, and aim to promote amongst our community. Our participation in GITEX for the first time this year is testament to this belief and to our ongoing commitment towards supporting the ambitious strategy of Smart Dubai. The Smart initiatives we are showcasing are in line with the Smart Dubai District Guidelines, aiming to ensure the best experience of efficient, seamless, safe and impactful operations for our community.”

“We continue to work closely with the government to shape the future of finance in the region, building on our position as one of the top ten global financial centres and the leading financial hub for the MEASA region.” She added.

For the duration of the event, which runs from 8 to 12 October, DIFC will be present at the Smart Dubai booth to showcase its various initiatives that aim to enhance its clients and community experience These include FinTech Hive at DIFC, DIFC’s Facility Management Automated Services, as well as the newly launched “DIFC Connect”.

DIFC Connect

The official Mobile App for DIFC. “DIFC Connect” will offer an interactive platform that provides users with the latest DIFC news and other features to help them navigate around the Centre. Users will be introduced to the numerous means of transportation to and from the Centre, as well as a wayfinding selection; directory of all retailers, galleries and F&B outlets; and a calendar of events.
To download the “DIFC Connect” App, please visit: iOS - Android.

FinTech Hive at DIFC

DIFC’s latest initiative towards driving the future of finance in the UAE and the wider region. The 12-week accelerator programme aims to bridge the SME funding gap by offering leading technology entrepreneurs the opportunity to exchange knowledge and develop the necessary solutions to meet the needs of a larger client base. 11 start-ups have already started the Programme, where they can develop and test their technologies under the dedicated supervision of senior executives from DIFC and leading financial institutions. The programme will conclude in an ‘Investor Day’  this coming November, where participants will be given the chance to showcase their products in front of potential investors and partners from the region’s financial industry.

Facility Management Automated Services

DIFC’s Facility Management Automated Services provide clients with Smart technologies in the various domains of energy, logistics and fit-out, through environment-friendly solutions. Examples of these services include the DIFC Truck Tunnel, a state-of-the-art 1.7 km long support corridor, that eases congestion of heavy vehicle traffic within the Centre’s dynamic ecosystem. The DIFC Computer Aided Facilities Management System which provides the link between the Centre’s administration and operation at the site, allowing agility and control in managing the facility almost immediately. Lastly, DIFC’s Fit-out Automation System, a unique and advanced online system which caters to fit-out and events process, from the application stage to the final completion.