UK Securities & Investment Institute accreditation of the Dubai International Financial Exchange (DIFX) Academy

The DIFX will offer the SII’s technical units in Investment Management and Derivatives from the SII Certificate suite.

In addition the SII and the DIFX Academy are developing a regulatory exam that will include the environment in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), where the DIFX is located. This exam will be based largely on the requirements of the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), which regulates financial services in the DIFC to international standards.

The SII, the professional body for those working in the UK securities and investment industry, was approached by the DIFX to help develop these programmes.

Ruth Martin, Managing Director of the SII, said: ‘The SII is delighted to be able to contribute its expertise in enabling the DIFX Academy to offer a rigorous and internationally recognized examination framework, to support the growth of Dubai as a financial centre in the global economy.’

The qualifications will enable financial services workers in Dubai and elsewhere in the DIFX region to further their professional development. Candidates will be able to take intensive courses in Dubai and take an examination at a Computer Based Testing centre located at the Dubai Knowledge Village.

Nasser Alshaali, Chief Operating Officer of the DIFX, said: ‘With the setting up of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the DIFX, demand for qualified finance professionals is increasing quickly. As more financial institutions come into the DIFC they need staff with world class skills and training.’

Pauline Olson, Head of DIFX Academy, said: "These exams are a huge step forward for financial training in the region. They will complement the training already provided by the Academy in areas such as Islamic finance and trading."