This episode is also available as a blog post: https://10leaves.ae/publications/difc/setting-up-a-regulated-fintech-license-in-the-difc

Firms interested in carrying out fintech activities from the DIFC are required to submit applications to the Dubai Financial Services Authority, or DFSA.

The DFSA, for the purposes of authorisation and supervision, categorises fintech activities based on the type of activity being carried out, and the minimum base capital required.

Consequently, fintech activities can form part of Category 3 and Category 4 licenses, which various related activities such as advising and arranging investments, portfolio management (discretionary and non-discretionary), money service businesses and digital/robo advisory activities.