Exploring how the UAE continues to strengthen its position as a leading global financial centre, attracting international firms and talent, fostering innovation and creating an environment in which the alternative investment industry can thrive.

Mohamed Sharaf

COO-FDI, Dubai Economy & Tourism

This fireside conversation will explore the regulatory and market developments influencing the region’s financial ecosystem, from fund manager licensing and the rise of tokenisation and digital assets to the strategies being deployed to attract world-class talent. The discussion will also examine how Gulf financial centres are positioning themselves for long-term competitiveness and global relevance.

Emmanuel Givanakis

Chief Executive Officer, ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA)

Charlotte Robins

Managing Director of Policy & Legal, Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA)

This panel will explore the outlook for direct lending, the growing appeal of asset-backed finance, and the opportunities emerging in distressed and special situations strategies. Speakers will also examine private credit deployment across the Middle East and discuss how non-bank lenders are meeting evolving borrower demand.

David Beckett

Managing Director, SC Lowy

Declan Tiernan

Partner and Head of EMEA Client Coverage, Oak Hill Advisors

Emira Socorro

Senior Executive Officer, PGIM

Ryan McNelley

Managing Director, Kroll