ICA48 highlights Dubai’s status as leading hub for financial markets

The 48th edition of the Interarab Cambist Association (ICA) Conference and Exhibition (ICA48) officially launched on Saturday in Dubai, in an exceptional start that reaffirmed the emirate’s rising global status as a leading hub for financial markets and fintech innovation.

The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Maktoum Bin Juma Al Maktoum, Honorary Chairman of the UAE Financial Markets Association (UAEFMA), whose keynote address outlined a clear strategic vision for the UAE’s pioneering role in shaping the future of global financial systems and strengthening Dubai’s position as an international financial powerhouse linking East and West.

In his opening remarks, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Maktoum Bin Juma Al Maktoum emphasised that Dubai’s support for this world-class event reflects the emirate’s forward-looking economic policies—policies designed to empower financial institutions, support business ecosystems, and provide a global platform that brings together decision-makers, experts, and traders from around the world to define the next chapter of the financial industry.

His speech was a pivotal moment in the ceremony, expressing strong confidence in the UAE’s capacity to lead global discussions on the new economy, sustainable finance, financial innovation, and market governance—a message that received wide praise from participating delegations.

Mohammed Al Hashemi, President of the UAE Financial Markets Association, delivered a keynote speech highlighting that hosting this major event in Dubai reflects the increasing international confidence in the UAE’s financial and regulatory infrastructure. He noted that this year’s edition is the largest in the Association’s history in terms of attendance and the caliber of participants, reaffirming the Association’s commitment to developing financial talent and strengthening global institutional partnerships.

Al Hashemi reiterated that the Association operates with an ambitious vision to elevate trading practices, empower professionals, and expand channels of cooperation between global financial entities—further evidence of the world’s growing trust in the UAE’s financial landscape.

Delivering a comprehensive address, Abdullah Daoud, President of ACI – The Financial Markets Association, stressed the strategic importance of holding the 48th edition in Dubai at this particular moment, amid rapid global economic shifts. He highlighted the organization’s role in developing international professional standards and harmonizing best practices for traders worldwide, affirming that Dubai is an ideal platform to discuss the future of digital assets, innovative financing tools, and advanced financial technologies.

One of the most impactful speeches of the day came from Dr Mahmoud Mohieldin, UN Special Envoy for Financing the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. His address captured the audience’s attention with sharp economic insights on global challenges, sustainable financing mechanisms, and the vital role of financial institutions in supporting development and economic growth. Many experts and delegates described it as one of the strongest and most compelling speeches of the entire conference.

Following the opening remarks, the conference proceeded with the Keynote Speaker session and a series of high-level panel discussions featuring global leaders, economists, and top figures from the financial markets industry. The sessions tackled critical topics across the financial ecosystem, enriched by the contributions of experts from more than forty countries.

The first day recorded 575 delegates, a new benchmark for ICA, underscoring the importance of this year’s event and its ability to attract top-tier professionals, policymakers, and international institutions. The exhibition area witnessed strong participation from leading local and global banks, fintech companies, and asset-management firms, alongside interactive sessions, workshops, and discussions covering digital transformation, artificial intelligence, digital currencies, treasury services, and financial derivatives.

The opening ceremony also witnessed the distinguished presence of the full Board of Directors of the UAE Financial Markets Association, including President Mohammed Al Hashemi, Vice President Salman Hadi, Treasurer Dr Ahoud Al Ali, Dr Khaled Ashour, Abdulaziz Kashwani, Maryam Bourzaq, and Ahmed Al Ahli—reflecting the Association’s unified commitment to supporting this global event and reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in the international financial arena.

The resounding success of Day One of ICA48 confirms Dubai’s continued rise as a global financial crossroads. This year’s edition stands out as one of the most powerful conferences in the organization’s nearly five-decade history—marked by unprecedented leadership presence, rich content, and participation from major international financial institutions. ICA48 is poised to set a new benchmark for global cooperation and to redefine the future of financial markets in the region and beyond.