Latest news with #DubaiFintechSummit2025
Fintech News ME
21-07-2025
- Business
- Fintech News ME
DFSA Report: Quantum Computing and AI Introduce New Risks to Finance
As implementation of emerging technologies accelerates, operational resilience, technology risk management, and adaptive oversight will be fundamental to maintaining stability in financial markets. Regulators and institutions must act to raise awareness of emerging threats, enhance readiness, and strengthen technology governance, global financial regulators and experts said during a closed-door meeting. The session, hosted by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) at the Dubai Fintech Summit 2025 in May 2025, bought together 70 representatives from 18 financial regulatory authorities from across the globe, alongside senior experts from the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Innovation Hub and the International Monetary Fund. These participants examined how cybersecurity, AI, and quantum technologies intersect, discussing practical measures to address the evolving risk landscape, and reflecting on current progress and persistent gaps. An evolving cyber threat landscape Participants warned of the evolving cyber threat landscape, highlighting that cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and harder to control because they easily cross borders and affect many different industries at once. They emphasized the shift from ransomware encryption towards double extortion, which combines data encryption with threats to leak stolen information, as well as the growing use of AI for social engineering. They also noted that threat actors are increasingly attacking newer technologies such as Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices with physical sensors and supply chains, and are using legitimate tools to evade detection mechanisms. To manage these risks, these experts agreed on the need to balance innovation with robust cybersecurity. They advised on strengthening basic defenses, such as keeping software up to date, dividing networks to limit damage, training employees to spot threats, using strong access controls and multifactor authentication, sharing information about threats, and carefully managing risks from third parties like suppliers and partners, while also emphasizing the importance of cross-sector and public-private collaboration as cyber-attacks become orchestrated at industrial scale and are no longer isolated events. Regulators, meanwhile, should provide guidance on quantum and AI-related risks, and raise awareness about these threats. They should also embed cybersecurity into supervisory assessments, and build their own skills and suptech tools to monitor and respond to cyber and emerging technology risks. Quantum risk evolution Quantum risks were another key topic of discussion. Quantum computers, which utilize quantum mechanics to process information, have the potential to revolutionize fields like cryptography, drug discovery, and complex optimization by solving problems exponentially faster than classical computers. However, these same capabilities also pose significant cybersecurity risks. Such powerful quantum computers could theoretically break widely used encryption methods that currently secure online banking, payment systems, and other digital payments. And while these computers, called cryptographically relevant quantum computers (CRQCs), don't exist yet, they could emerge by 2030-2040, emphasizing the urgency to prepare for a post-quantum world now. Participants warned that the financial sector is likely to be among the prime targets for quantum threats because of the high value of financial assets transactions financial institutions process. Though the space benefit from strong governance structures and prudential frameworks, important gaps persist, including limited awareness of quantum threats, incomplete inventory of vulnerable systems, and slow global standardization and interoperability. Against this backdrop, experts highlighted that regulatory authorities have a vital role to play in raising awareness on quantum threat, and supporting gradual transition planning. They should also consider introducing regulatory sandboxes for experimentation, cross-border collaboration, and scenario planning that simulate quantum-risk impacts to better prepare for the challenges that quantum technologies may bring. AI risk oversight Finally, the group examined the risks associated with the growing adoption of AI in financial services. First, they noted that financial institutions process large volumes of highly sensitive personal and financial data that are increasingly used to train complex machine learning (ML) models. This enhances the risks of data breaches and intellectual property theft. They also emphasized that AI expands the attack surface for cyber threats, and introduces new points of failure not present in traditional information and communication technology infrastructure, such as data pipelines and ML models. Meanwhile, threat actors are increasingly incorporating AI into their offensive toolkits to enhance, automate, and scale cyberattacks, as well as to adapt to counter-defensive measures. Experts also highlighted the growing resilience on a limited number of dominant AI providers, contributing to supply chain concentration risk and heightening the risk of systemic disruptions in the event of supply chain incidents. They also drew attention to the expanding influence of bigtech companies across the AI ecosystem. Participants encouraged regulators to map supply chains and assess concentration risks across critical technology providers. They also stressed the importance of balancing innovation with adequate oversight, advising for principle-based approaches, and an adaptive, learning-focused posture to respond more effectively to the evolving nature of AI applications. The potential of quantum computing and AI Quantum computing and AI are transforming technologies poised to transform the financial services and banking industry by accelerating secure transaction processing, revolutionizing risk analysis, optimizing complex portfolios, and enhancing fraud detection. McKinsey estimates that quantum computing use cases in the finance industry could create US$622 billion in value by 2035. Meanwhile, generative AI (genAI), a subset of AI that creates new content, could add as much as US$340 billion a year in additional value, representing 2.8% to 4.7% of total industry revenues, largely through increased productivity. However, genAI also introduces risks, such as deepfake and fraud. Deloitte's Center for Financial Services predicts that genAI could enable fraud losses to reach US$40 billion in the US by 2027, from US$12.3 billion in 2023. Despite these challenges, adoption is accelerating rapidly. According to the latest McKinsey Global Survey on AI, 78% of respondents said that their organizations used AI in at least one business function as of late 2024, up from 55% a year earlier. Boston Consulting Group (BCG)'s AI Radar found that one in three financial institutions plans to spend over US$25 million on AI in 2025, and some will spend in the range of 0.5% to 1% of revenues towards AI technologies.
Business Recorder
25-06-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
UAE fintech market set to hit $5.71 billion by 2029
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) fintech market is expected to grow from $3.16 billion in 2024 to $5.71 billion by 2029, according to 'From code to capital: The UAE's FinTech revolution' 2025 report, published by Emirates NBD, in collaboration with PwC. It was previewed at the recent Dubai Fintech Summit 2025, where it was revealed that fintech startups in the UAE attracted around $265 million in 2024 – approximately one-third of total startup funding in the country. It also highlighted the proliferation of digital adoption, venture capital investment, as well as the widespread integration of artificial intelligence (AI). UAE boasts over 90% smartphone penetration and 88% regular use of digital payments, according the report. Neeraj Makin, group head of strategy, analytics and venture capital at Emirates NBD said, 'UAE's $265 million of fintech funding in 2024 signals strong investor confidence. Bolstered by a robust venture capital network, diverse talent, and clear exit paths, the UAE is primed to attract even greater investment and cultivate future FinTech leaders'. Stephen Anderson, Strategy Leader at PwC Middle East, said, 'This report illuminates the dynamic fintech landscape within Dubai. We see a region transformed by innovation, driven by technology and visionary strategies,' he was quoted as saying. The report also highlighted the impact of AI in transforming every layer of financial services from personalisation to compliance and risk modeling. In 2024, Dubai's venture-capital-backed FDI soared 39 per cent, attracting $222 million that flowed into startups based in Dubai – underscoring the city's growing appeal among global venture firms. Dubai was also recently ranked in the top five cities for fintech in the latest edition of Global Financial Centre Index (GFCI) rankings, with success being attributed to the contributions of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) over the past 20 years.
Mid East Info
13-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Blue Remit Limited and Saad Exchange join forces to drive Innovation in Cross-Border Digital Payments - Middle East Business News and Information
Blue Remit Limited, a subsidiary of Al Ansari Financial Services PJSC, one of the fastest-growing digital remittance players, has partnered with Saad Exchange, a leading cross-border remittance provider in the UAE. This strategic alliance aims to expand access to secure, seamless, and compliant cross-border digital payment solutions through a wide variety of accessible channels for customers. The agreement was officially signed during the Dubai Fintech Summit 2025, where senior leaders from both organisations highlighted their shared vision for digital transformation, enhanced customer experience, and continued growth within the UAE's financial ecosystem. By combining Blue Remit's cutting-edge fintech capabilities and deep-rooted legacy, with Saad Exchange's strong market presence in the country, the collaboration aims to deliver a range of digitally enabled financial products. These offerings will be designed to meet the evolving needs of consumers seeking reliable, efficient, and instant cross-border money transfers. 'We are excited to partner with Saad Exchange to support their aspirations in the cross-border remittance space, being an agile partner like us.' said Omer Farooq, Director of Operations, Blue Remit Limited. 'This collaboration not only reinforces our commitment to ensuring seamless instant remittances but also adds more value to our users through enhanced credibility, regulatory strength, and innovation.' Muhammad Faiz Alam, CEO of Saad Exchange, stated: 'Partnering with Blue Remit marks a significant milestone in our journey to modernise traditional financial services. Together, we aim to support the UAE's ambition of becoming a global fintech hub by developing impactful, future-ready solutions tailored to the needs of our communities.'
Entrepreneur
13-05-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Sheds a Spotlight on the UAE's Climate Financing Strides at DFS 2025
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. During a fireside chat on day one of the Dubai Fintech Summit 2025 -the third edition of an annual event by DIFC that convenes regional and global fintech stakeholders, which was held from May 12-13 this year- H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, noted that the UAE "has always been a supporter for countries to achieve their climate action and climate agenda." Moderated by Lenah Hassaballah, editor and presenter at CNN Business Arabic, the conversation put a spotlight on the intersection of sustainability, policy, and economic growth. The UAE's Loss and Damage Fund -an initiative launched during 2023's COP28 which is aimed at assisting developing countries most vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change- was the opening point of discussion. "I would like to start by reminding everyone that the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund happened on the very first day of COP28, where we witnessed the pledge from the UAE of US$100 million to support this fund," Dr. Al Dahak noted. "And from there, we have seen the ball rolling and the momentum being gained. Up until today -as of March 2025- we have US$766 million pledged into the Loss and Damage Fund from 25 countries." Dr. Al Dahak then emphasized that the UAE has been deeply committed to aiding the communities that have been the first to be affected by the ongoing climate crisis- a pivotal reason behind the formation of the Fund in the first place. "It was essential to make sure that this fund is moving forward because, well, the UAE…we're always about impactful action, and we have seen the need for this," Dr. Al Dahak added. "And the operationalization of this fund shows the global commitment toward achieving or supporting those countries and their climate agendas. Now, since then, we have seen the progress in this fund as per the third board meeting in September 2024, which took place in Baku…So we can see now that all the groundwork has been laid for this fund to operationalize and become into action. Now, we need to make sure through all international conversations and through multilateral platforms that are focused on climate action, that those countries who have committed and pledged to support this fund -which was announced in COP29 in Baku to be currently fully operationalized- continue to translate those pledges into actions to make sure that resources are available and accessible for those countries and the most vulnerable communities at the moment." These opening remarks from Dr. Al Dahak eventually steered the fireside chat towards the urgency surrounding, and opportunities presented by, aligning financial systems with climate goals. At the crux of this conversation was the ALTÉRRA Fund- said to be the world's largest climate investment fund with a goal to mobilize US$250 billion globally by 2030 towards climate-related investments and initiative that supports the global transition to a low-carbon economy. Launched in the midst of 2023's COP28 in the UAE, it aims to not only mobilize capital for climate initiatives, particularly in developing countries, but also seeks to bridge the climate finance gap. But Dr. Al Dahak noted that even before addressing the aforementioned issues, the ALTÉRRA Fund sought to, first and foremost, "change the people's perception about investment." "We want people to know that investment, the return on investment and the return on the environment with respect to climate action and climate agenda can go hand in hand," she said. "Two words we have been hearing from Dr. Sultan Al Jaber [the COP28 President] is that we have to be practical and pragmatic. So we have to always ensure that we're translating action in a way that is providing more innovative solutions but also making the investment where it matters. The ALTÉRRA Fund started, or rather was announced, in COP 28 with a commitment of $30 billion [from the UAE]. And it is designed, from the very beginning, to mobilize up to $250 billion by 2030 and with a completely different paradigm than what is understood to be, or what is looked at, as investment funds." Ultimately, these efforts by the UAE are to, quite simply, make climate action "affordable, accessible and at scale to the most vulnerable communities," reiterated Dr. Al Dahak- a strategy that moderator Hassaballah noted as a "win-win situation." "The most important thing is that it's designed with the right return on investment model but at the same time the right return on environment as well," Dr. Al Dahak declared. As the conversation then moved into the realms of climate change challenges, the growing significance of clean energy models and the need to create more innovative models of climate financing. Dr. Al Dahak further stressed upon the UAE's role in "green transition" and in helping businesses efficiently reach their net zero goals. Watch the full video to gather more insights from this DFS 2025 fireside chat!
Mid East Info
12-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Alibaba Cloud Expands Fintech Footprint with LuLu Financial Holdings and Ant Digital Technologies AI Partnerships
New collaborations pledge to accelerate financial innovation and resilience through advanced cloud solutions and Gen-AI technologies Dubai, The United Arab Emirates, May , 2025 – Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, today announced its strategic partnerships with LuLu Financial Holdings('LuluFin'), a leading UAE-based financial services company and Ant Digital Technologies during the Dubai Fintech Summit 2025. These collaborations underscore Alibaba Cloud's ongoing commitments to supporting the region's digital transformation by equipping businesses with effective tools and robust infrastructure to thrive in an AI-powered world. These alliances come amid a wave of AI-led disruption and digital reinvention in the UAE and the wider GCC, where financial institutions are being redefined by national innovation strategies, ecosystem investments, and future-focused talent development. This technological shift holds immense economic potential, with McKinsey estimating a $1 trillion annual value opportunity in global banking, and PwC projecting a $320 billion contribution to the Middle East's economy by 2030. Eric Wan, Vice President of Alibaba Cloud International, General Manager of the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence, said: 'We've always believed that technology has the power to drive real-world change, and our collaboration with leading financial institutions like LuLu Financial Holdings and Ant Digital Technologies reinforces this belief. It allows us to support them not just adapt but thrive in an increasingly digital world. With our dynamic cloud solutions and AI capabilities, we're supporting their journey to deliver smarter, more secure financial services – unlocking countless opportunities and reimagining the future of the financial sector.' Alibaba Cloud's robust cloud infrastructure and Generative AI capabilities are key to LuLuFin' transformation into an AI-native organization. With Alibaba Cloud's advanced solutions and technologies, LuLuFin has adopted a multi-cloud strategy that strengthens business resilience, enhances disaster recovery capabilities, and guides the development of innovative, customer-centric financial services. Alibaba Cloud's extensive portfolio of services, including its Elastic Compute Service (ECS), Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS), PolarDB, and the EMAS mobile testing platform, provides LuLuFin with unprecedented agility, scalability, and security. Additionally, by leveraging Alibaba's proprietary large language model Qwen, LuLuFin is developing an internal AI agent called Treasury AI, as part of the joint Agentic AI development program. This intelligent platform is engineered to optimize fund allocation and movement. Treasury AI helps in transaction costs, currency exposure, and regulatory compliance. These innovations, powered by Qwen, are poised to significantly enhance LuluFin's service capabilities, revamp customer interactions, and streamline decision-making through predictive analytics and natural language processing. Joseph Cleetus, VP of Business Transformation, LuLu Financial Holdings said: 'AI is no longer on the horizon. It's already transforming the way we live, work, and transact. This collaboration marks a pivotal step forward in our journey to redefine cross-border payments, not just as a service, but as an intelligent, anticipatory experience. Together with Alibaba Cloud, we are building a future where technology doesn't just support finance — it elevates it.' During the Summit, Alibaba Cloud also announced its plan to deepen collaboration with Ant Digital Technologies to expand the suite of joint solutions into its Dubai region later this year, including ZOLOZ for digital identity verification, mPaaS for SuperApp development and operations, and cutting-edge AI capabilities tailored for the financial services industry (FSI). Leveraging the advanced technologies of Ant Digital Technologies and robust cloud and AI infrastructure of Alibaba Cloud, the partnership aims to deliver secure, scalable, and intelligent digital transformation services for local FSI customers. This initiative underscores both companies' commitment to empowering financial institutions in the region with innovative cloud and AI-native tools and trusted digital infrastructure. By partnering with forward-thinking organizations like LuLu Financial Holdings and Ant Digital Technologies, Alibaba Cloud is helping businesses harness the full potential of technology to deliver meaningful change and create value for their customers and communities. Alibaba Cloud has been a leading provider of cloud services to local private companies and public institutions in the UAE and the wider Middle East region since 2016. It has a robust local ecosystem in the MEA region with partners covering banking, financial services and insurance, media, public sectors, and customers locally across different sectors. Photo caption: Eric Wan Vice President of Alibaba Cloud International, General Manager of the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence and Joseph Cleetus VP of Business Transformation, LuLu Financial Holdings witnessing the strategic partnership between Alibaba Cloud and LuLu Financial Holdings with the launch of Treasury AI platform at Dubai Fintech Summit. About Alibaba Cloud: Established in 2009, Alibaba Cloud ( is the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group. It offers a complete suite of cloud services to customers worldwide, including elastic computing, database, storage, network virtualization services, large-scale computing, security, big data analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) services. Alibaba has been named the leading IaaS provider in Asia Pacific by revenue in U.S. dollars since 2018, according to Gartner. It has also maintained its position as one of the world's leading public cloud IaaS service providers since 2018, according to IDC. About LuLu Financial Holdings: LuLu Financial Holdings is a leading global financial services provider, offering a wide range of services including cross-border payments, currency exchange, and financial technology solutions. With over 370 customer engagement centers in over 10 countries across the Middle East, Indian subcontinent and APAC regions, and a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, LuLu Financial Holdings continues to set benchmarks in the financial services industry. About Ant Digital Technologies: Ant Digital Technologies is the technology commercialization business division of the Ant Group, which started independent operation in April 2024. Ant Digital Technologies originated from AntChain and has the leading technologies and patents in the field of blockchain globally. It has continuously developed several commercialized product brands such as ZOLOZ, mPaaS, and ZAN, with representative technological capabilities and businesses that are always committed to helping enterprises better embrace the digital age.
