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FISD Dubai at Ritz-Carlton DIFC, sessions to 19:00

The FISD Dubai business conference takes place on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre. Registration opens at 13:15, with sessions running until 19:00.

The host is S&P Global, with FISD convening its first Middle East program in Dubai. Capacity is limited, so advance registration is required.

Expect an afternoon agenda focused on market data, regulation, and AI across regional financial hubs. Panel topics include the UAE’s dual market structure and emerging tech shaping finance.

Speakers listed by the organizer include program leads and senior executives from Bloomberg, Nasdaq, S&P’s Kensho, LSEG, ADIA, FactSet, and regional wealth managers. Speaker line-ups can change on the day.

The venue is The Ritz-Carlton DIFC, Gate Village, off Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Hotel phone: +971 4 372 2222.

For timing, plan your arrival around the 13:15 check-in to avoid last-minute queues. Arrive 20–30 minutes early.

Dress code is business formal or smart business. This is a professional event and not suitable for children. (not suitable for children)

Admission policy indicated by the organizer: members free; non-member consumer firms free; vendor/exchange non-members approximately AED 1,840. Treat all prices as approximate.

Networking segments bookend the day, including coffee and a closing reception through 19:00. Bring business cards and keep your LinkedIn QR ready.

If you drive, note DIFC’s premium valet and VIP options in Gate Village and Gate Avenue with hourly charges. Parking capacity is limited at peak times.

Self-parking is available around DIFC and nearby towers, but evening demand spikes as offices empty and restaurants fill. Allow extra time for parking after 16:30.

Metro access is straightforward: Red Line to Financial Centre Station (R24), then a short walk to Gate Village. Public transport is often faster than driving at peak.

From Dubai International Airport, a taxi to DIFC typically runs approximately AED 40–60 depending on traffic. Keep small notes or card/Nol ready for payment.

Coming from Abu Dhabi: drive via E11 (approximately 90–110 minutes off-peak), or take intercity bus E100/E101 to Al Ghubaiba or Ibn Battuta and connect to the Red Line for Financial Centre. Intercity bus fares are approximately AED 30 one-way. (suitable for solo)

Returning to Abu Dhabi after the reception, consider the later E100 departures from Al Ghubaiba and factor Metro headways after 20:00. Avoid last-bus risk by leaving a time buffer.

From Sharjah and Ajman: E303/E307/E400 buses run to Union/Deira City Centre with frequent service; connect to Red Line for Financial Centre. Typical intercity fares range approximately AED 10–15. (suitable for solo)

If using taxis from Union or Deira City Centre to DIFC in the afternoon, plan an additional 20–30 minutes for Sheikh Zayed Road congestion. Book a ride a few minutes before you leave the station.

Weather for Thursday, November 13 shows warm “Dubai winter” conditions around 32°C daytime and near 22°C at night. Hydrate and bring light layers for indoor AC.

Weekend check: Saturday, November 15 and Sunday, November 16 are forecast near 32–33°C by day with clear, hazy sun and mild evenings. No rain or mud risk is expected. (children/family-friendly for outdoor plans)

Note that Saturday often brings early-morning road activity and fun runs around DIFC and Downtown, which can briefly affect access. Check road advisories if you plan meetings that morning.

If you plan to dine in DIFC after the event, many restaurants fill for the 20:00–21:00 wave. Reserve in advance if you want a specific spot. (suitable for couples)

For accessibility, The Ritz-Carlton DIFC provides on-site accessible parking and step-free access; call +971 4 372 2222 for specific requests. Notify the hotel if you need assistance.

Cashless is widely accepted in the hotel and DIFC. Carry a charged phone for QR check-ins and digital business cards.

If you are new to DIFC’s layout, use Gate Village as your anchor; the hotel connects easily to Gate Avenue by foot. Signage can be subtle—watch for gate numbers.

Data-sharing notice is indicated by the organizer in line with local regulations. Register with your legal name and bring ID if requested.

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