DIFC Surges as Global Insurance Hub with 35% Growth in Premiums, Hosts Record-Breaking Congress
April 29, 2025
The Middle East insurance sector is thriving, bolstered by investments in mega projects across tourism, retail, and infrastructure, aimed at diversifying economies away from fossil fuels.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is committed to enhancing the insurance ecosystem through engagement, transparency, and talent development, solidifying its status as a global insurance hub.
In 2024, DIFC reported a remarkable 35% increase in gross written premiums, rising from USD 2.6 billion to USD 3.5 billion, showcasing the growth of the insurance and reinsurance sectors.
This significant announcement was made during the Dubai World Insurance Congress 2025, which attracted 1,700 attendees from 82 countries, marking it as the largest gathering of insurance professionals in the region.
The global insurance industry, valued at USD 8 trillion, is expanding, driven by increasing demand for resilience against extreme weather and cyber threats, trends that are also evident in the Middle East.
Insurers are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance claims processing and product distribution, while InsurTechs are collaborating with traditional insurers to streamline operations.
DIFC stands out as a leading financial center for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, characterized by a diverse talent pool and a robust regulatory framework.
The Congress featured over 6,000 scheduled deal-making meetings and was extended to three days due to overwhelming demand, reflecting the growing interest in the insurance market.
Consumer awareness and adoption of insurance products in the region are on the rise, supported by a favorable regulatory environment that attracts captive insurers and InsurTechs.
Emerging technologies, including Web3 and crypto assets, are presenting new growth opportunities for the insurance sector as decentralized finance gains traction globally.
DIFC's Chief Executive Officer, Arif Amiri, emphasized that the centre's progressive regulations and stable environment are key factors in its growth as a leading insurance hub.
A report titled 'Embedding Resilience: Opportunities for the Global Insurance Industry' was launched, highlighting the need for insurers to address the gap between insured and uninsured assets.
Summary based on 2 sources