What was launched
In January the Ruler of Dubai launched DIFC Zabeel District, an expansion of the Dubai International Financial Centre: a 7.1 million square foot site with 17.7 million square feet of floor space and an estimated development value above AED 100 billion. It is planned to hold more than 42,000 companies and a workforce above 125,000, joined to the current Gate District by a bridge. It is built in six phases, opens to the public in 2030 and is completed by 2040.
What goes in it
Offices, and alongside them homes, hotels, upscale retail, a conference centre and green space along a central boulevard. More than a million square feet for technology and AI, including what DIFC calls the first purpose-built AI campus, planned for 6,000 businesses and 30,000 tech specialists. The DIFC Academy grows to 370,000 square feet, for 50,000 learners a year. The first phase is in preparation now.
Why it matters for property
Well-paid jobs close to home are one of the steadiest drivers of rents.
Our read
The areas within a short drive, Business Bay, Downtown and City Walk, are the natural beneficiaries, and so is anything along the new Metro Gold Line, which passes City Walk and Business Bay. This is a reason to prefer these areas for a long hold, not a reason to pay more today.
The catch
The first phase opens in 2030, and a plan to 2040 will change along the way. It does nothing for rents this year.
Source: Dubai Media Office, 27 January 2026.