Dubai DIFC continued to enhance its infrastructure, with more flagship projects added to the Centre’s masterplan — the most recent of which are the construction of Gate Avenue at DIFC and The Exchange building.
The amount of floor space leased in 2017 was a record for DIFC and indicates strong potential for future employee growth in the district.
“In 2017, we launched a number of initiatives to promote financial innovation, and in turn, financial inclusion in the broader MEASA region. This was accompanied by continuous evolution of our infrastructure and regulatory framework in order for us to enable Fintech SMEs to disrupt the way businesses operate today. This remains a key focus for us as we embark on new opportunities in 2018, guided by a clear roadmap towards the delivery of our 2024 vision,” said Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority.
Demand for retail space in DIFC continued to grow in 2017 with a 7 per cent increase in the number of active retailers registered in the Centre. 2017 saw the number of retailers reaching 226, up from 211 firms in 2016.
This growth will be cemented by an additional 200 dining, boutique, retail and entertainment options that will come on stream as Gate Avenue at DIFC nears completion. The new 660,000 square feet premium urban retail, leisure and cultural development at the heart of DIFC achieved significant progress in 2017 and a large number of retail units are in the process of being handed over to tenants for design and fit-out work. Preparations are already in progress for the opening of Gate Avenue at DIFC in 2018.
