Sheikh Maktoum Meets Mizuho CEO to Strengthen Financial Ties

Photo : Dubai Government Media Office

His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance of the UAE, met with Masahiro Kihara, President and Group CEO of Mizuho Financial Group, which is one of Japan's largest financial institutions. The meeting was held at His Highness' Court in Dubai.

During their meeting, Sheikh Maktoum emphasized the UAE’s ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with global financial institutions. This is part of the country’s plan to grow its role as an important player in the world’s financial markets. He pointed out that the UAE’s strong infrastructure, clear regulations, and modern business environment make it the perfect place for global financial companies to take advantage of growing opportunities in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA).

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The discussion also focused on Dubai’s exciting plans to grow its financial sector, including improving capital markets and liquidity, with the goal of making the city one of the top four financial centers in the world. This vision is part of the Dubai Economic Agenda, known as D33. Sheikh Maktoum also highlighted Dubai’s business-friendly policies, which continue to attract international financial institutions and promote new partnerships globally.

They also talked about ways Mizuho Financial Group could increase its involvement in the region, especially in sectors that are being transformed by new technologies. The meeting touched on how Dubai can serve as a key gateway for Japanese companies looking to expand their reach in the MEASA region.

The meeting was attended by several important figures, including His Excellency Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; His Excellency Helal Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism; His Excellency Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC; and His Excellency Hesham Abdulla Al Qassim, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Emirates NBD.

Mizuho Financial Group, which is based in Tokyo, offers a wide range of financial services including banking, securities, and asset management. With its global network, the company serves clients like large businesses, financial institutions, government agencies, and individuals. As of December 31, 2024, Mizuho had assets worth around ¥285 trillion and employed more than 52,000 people globally. In Dubai, Mizuho operates through its subsidiaries, Mizuho Bank and Mizuho International, both located in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).