The 11th annual World Takaful Conference (WTC) will be convened by leading financial intelligence platform, Middle East Global Advisors, in strategic partnership with the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). DIFC is the financial hub for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, providing a world-class platform connecting the region's markets with the economies of Europe, Asia and the Americas. It also facilitates the growth in South-South trade and investment. An onshore, international financial center, DIFC provides a stable, mature and secure base for financial institutions to develop their wholesale businesses. The Centre offers all the elements found in the world's most successful financial industry ecosystems, including an independent regulator, an independent judicial system with a common-law framework, a global financial exchange, inspiring architecture, powerful, enabling support services and a vibrant business community. Speaking ahead of WTC, Ehsan Abbas, Chairman of Middle East Global Advisors, said: "We are delighted to host the World Takaful Conference in strategic partnership with the DIFC Authority. For over a decade, WTC has generated powerful insights to spur industry growth in Dubai and indeed it is very fitting to have the DIFC as our partner, as well as to have the participation of luminaries from the Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre and UAE Insurance Authority." On April 11, WTC will host keynote addresses by Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre; Ebrahim Obaid Al Zaabi, Director General Insurance Authority; Salmaan Jaffrey, Chief Business Development Officer, Dubai International Financial Centre Authority; and Dave Matcham, Member of Executive Committee, Islamic Insurance Association of London. Speaking on DIFC's partnership with the World Takaful Conference (WTC), Jaffery said: "With the Islamic finance industry registering a sustained momentum, the demand for takaful products has witnessed a proportionate year-on-year surge, gaining increasing popularity among people seeking Shariah-compliant insurance options." He added: "At the same time, it is crucial for policy makers and key stakeholders to address the challenges facing the industry in order to achieve the long-term sustainable growth of the Islamic economy. The WTC is the ideal thought leadership platform for engaging with decision-makers and delivering insights on the long-term development of the takaful industry." Jaffrey noted that the "DIFC is privileged to support the 11th World Takaful Conference as a strategic partner. We will continue to articulate the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in making Dubai a global hub for Islamic finance. We look forward to engaging in productive discussions with industry leaders on current takaful trends, expected challenges and opportunities, and to facilitating actionable recommendations." WTC will take place on April 11-12, in Dusit Thani Hotel, Dubai. WTC 2016 will convene high profile guests and dignitaries from Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre, Dubai International Financial Centre, Islamic Insurance Association of London, Insurance Authority UAE, PwC, Moody's, EY, Swiss Re, Munich Re, Noor Takaful, Watania, Emirates RE, among others.
