Dubai Regulator DFSA Names Former FAB and ADGM Exec as Chief Operating Officer

The Dubai
Financial Services Authority (DFSA) has appointed Juma
Thani Alhameli as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective June 10,
2025. Alhameli will also join the DFSA’s Executive Committee, marking a
significant addition to the regulator’s leadership as it seeks to bolster its
oversight of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

DFSA Names Juma Thani
Alhameli as Chief Operating Officer

Alhameli
brings over two decades of experience across the technology, financial
services, and aviation sectors in the UAE. Most recently, he served as Group
Chief Technology Officer at First Abu Dhabi Bank, where he oversaw the bank’s
technology strategy.

His career
also includes senior leadership roles at Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), where
he contributed to business development and communications, and board positions
with the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange for almost a decade.

“I am honored
to join the DFSA and to lead its operational agenda at a time of opportunity
and ambition across the region’s financial sector,” Alhameli said, expressing
enthusiasm about his new role. “I look forward to working with the talented
team and to further the DFSA’s work in delivering regulatory excellence while
contributing to the continued growth of the DIFC, Dubai, and the UAE as a
leading financial hub.”

Earlier, he
held technology posts at the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Tanfeeth (Emirates
NBD), and e& (Etisalat). He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer
Engineering from Khalifa University and has completed executive programs at
Harvard University and IESE Business School.

Booming Financial Market
in Dubai

The DFSA,
as the independent regulator for financial services in the DIFC, oversees a
broad mandate including banking, asset management, securities, insurance, and
anti-money laundering compliance. Alhameli’s appointment comes as the authority
continues to expand its regulatory reach in support of Dubai’s ambitions as a
global financial center.

“Juma’s
leadership and operational expertise will be instrumental in supporting our
core mission,” DFSA Chief Executive Mark Steward commented, “delivering robust,
transparent, and forward-looking regulation so that the DFSA remains a
benchmark of excellence, both regionally and globally. I look forward to
working closely with Juma to advance our strategic priorities and deliver
lasting impact.”

In recent
years, an increasing number of financial companies have been opening offices in
the largest city of the United Arab Emirates. Among
them is the U.S.-based retail broker Interactive Brokers, which obtained a
local license at the end of last year. Why this destination? According to
company representatives, it’s due to the booming financial market.

This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.