DIFC Authority appoints Abdulla Al Awar as its new Managing Director

Abdulla brings with him a wealth of experience gained from a diverse background of working with a wide range of knowledge institutions in the Financial, ICT, Media and Education sectors.

As Managing Director of the DIFC Authority, Abdulla Al Awar will oversee business development activities of the DIFC. His main responsibilities will include attracting licensees to operate in the DIFC across the financial services sectors as well as supporting firms and activities.

Welcoming the appointment, HE Dr. Omar Bin Sulaiman, Governor of DIFC said: "As the organisation enters a new phase of expansion and growth, leadership will play a key role in our ability to realise our full potential. Abdulla will bring new energy and ideas to the DIFC's efforts to enhance its position as a global financial hub. He has a strong commitment and passion for DIFC's mission and possesses the right mix of skills and experience to add value to this role."

Nasser Al Shaali, CEO, DIFC Authority said: "As one of the world's leading international financial centres, the DIFC has experienced unprecedented growth and development in a very short space of time. As Managing Director of the DIFC Authority, Abdulla will play a key role in driving the DIFC into the future and, by utilising his skills and experience, we are certain that his contribution will be of great benefit to the centre."

Abdulla joined the DIFC as Business Development Manager in 2004 and in 2005 was installed as Executive Director of the Ancillary Service Providers and Non Regulated Organisations Department. In this role, he was responsible for creating and supervising the ancillary service providers sector within the centre, thus playing a key role in supporting the growth of the region's financial services industry.

Abdulla said: "In this new role, I am keen to contribute further to the success of an organisation that has become a powerful force for financial industry growth in this region. I look forward to working more closely with the team to drive business development strategies that will support the company's mission."

Abdulla holds a Bachelors of Science Degree in Business Administration majoring in Information Systems from the University of Colorado at Boulder. He has also been a member of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Program for Leadership Development since 2005.