S&P Global Ratings and DIFC to Host 16th Annual Islamic Finance Conference
Leading financial institutions convene in Dubai to examine growth prospects and strategic opportunities for Islamic finance across the GCC and beyond.
S&P Global Ratings and the Dubai International Financial Centre are preparing to host their sixteenth annual Islamic Finance Conference on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at The Atrium in the Gate District. The prestigious gathering will bring together regulators, financial institutions, investors and industry specialists to assess the outlook for Islamic finance throughout 2026 and 2027.
The conference programme will explore the evolving landscape of the GCC’s capital markets and credit environment, with particular emphasis on the opportunities and challenges that will define sector growth in the period ahead. Key sessions will examine factors influencing sovereign credit fundamentals, economic trajectories and developments within the global energy markets.
Hadi Melki, Managing Director and Regional Head for the Middle East at S&P Global Ratings, emphasised the sector’s continued relevance to regional economic development. “The Islamic finance industry continues to demonstrate its relevance as governments and corporates across the region seek diversified sources of funding for growth and economic transformation,” he remarked. “Against a more uncertain global backdrop, the sector’s resilience will depend on sound credit fundamentals, disciplined risk management, and the continued development of deep, liquid capital markets.”
A principal panel discussion, entitled “Islamic Finance 2026–2027: Navigating Rough Waters,” will provide detailed examination of the key opportunities and challenges confronting the sector. The session will be moderated by Rawan Oueidat, Director of Corporate Ratings at S&P Global Ratings.
Alya Al Zarouni, Chief Operating Officer of DIFC Authority, highlighted the centre’s strategic commitment to advancing Islamic finance on the global stage. “Islamic finance continues to play an important role in advancing more resilient, inclusive and sustainable financial systems around the world,” she stated. “As the industry enters a new phase of growth, innovation and cross-border collaboration will be key to unlocking its full potential and enhancing its contribution to economic development. DIFC remains committed to fostering innovation, strengthening industry collaboration and reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading global centre for Islamic finance.”
The conference opening remarks will be delivered by both Ms Al Zarouni and Mr Melki, setting the stage for substantive discussion of the sector’s trajectory and strategic imperatives.
Source: WAM