The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), the independent regulator of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), has launched DFSA Connect at GITEX.
This next-generation platform is designed to streamline application processes for authorisations and regulatory approvals. With DFSA Connect, applying for authorisation to conduct financial services in and from the DIFC is now faster, simpler and more user-friendly and efficient.
Throughout 2025, the DFSA has continued to receive rising volumes of applications for authorisation, with an 18% increase in applications during the first three quarters of the year to 30 September 2025.
As well as making the application process easier for firms, DFSA Connect will enable the regulator to manage further increasing volumes with an expected 33% efficiency gain, resulting in faster turnaround times for applicants seeking authorisations and approvals.
DFSA Connect’s capabilities enable smarter automation, streamlined workflows and a more applicant-friendly online system, reducing manual steps and delays. All of this is part of the DFSA’s commitment to enabling innovation in a responsible and customer-centric way and ensuring new firms are meeting the DFSA’s high standards.
