The Dubai Financial Market (DFM) has delivered a powerful statement on the strength of the region’s capital markets, reporting a staggering 43% increase in net profit for the first quarter of 2026. Reaching a net profit of AED 193.3 million before tax, the exchange has outperformed expectations and demonstrated the deep liquidity and resilience of Dubai’s financial ecosystem. This growth was underpinned by a 56% year-on-year surge in the average daily traded value, which has now crossed the significant AED 1 billion milestone—a key indicator of a mature and highly active market.
One of the most compelling aspects of these results is the profile of the investors driving this activity. During the first quarter alone, the DFM attracted over 20,700 new investors, with an incredible 79% of them originating from outside the UAE. Foreign investors now contribute 54% of the total trading value, while institutional investors account for 70%. This overwhelming international interest confirms that global capital is increasingly viewing Dubai as a safe, transparent, and high-growth destination for investment. The total market capitalization stood at AED 897 billion by the end of March, reflecting a broad-based confidence in the companies listed on the exchange.
Helal Saeed Al Marri, Chairman of DFM, noted that the results highlight increasing market depth and global relevance. This financial performance is more than just a win for the exchange; it is a bellwether for the wider economy. As more international institutions and retail investors pivot toward Dubai, the availability of capital for local companies to expand and innovate increases. The success of the DFM is a direct result of Dubai’s pro-business policies and its continuous efforts to enhance transparency and regulatory standards. With the market showing such robust momentum early in the year, the outlook for 2026 remains exceptionally bright, reinforcing Dubai’s position as one of the world’s top financial powerhouses.
