Canada’s National Bank Opens Office in Dubai to Support Canadian Businesses

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published January 16, 2026

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The National Bank of Canada (NBC), one of Canada’s six major banks, announced the opening of an office in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) in the United Arab Emirates. The move is aimed at strengthening support for Canadian companies with operations or ambitions in the Middle East and North Africa region.

The announcement was made public on January 14, 2026, when the bank released an official press statement confirming the establishment of its Dubai office. Subsequent news reports from multiple reputable sources have verified the accuracy of this development.

According to the bank, the Dubai location will serve as a platform to assist Canadian clients pursuing business and investment opportunities across the UAE and the wider region. This expansion further strengthens commercial ties between Canada and the UAE.

Étienne Dubuc, Executive Vice‑President of Capital Markets at NBC, said the new office will enable the bank to provide tailored support to Canadian companies active in the region or looking to enter it, as well as facilitate investments between the UAE and Canada. Ali Fares, Managing Director and Head of Middle East and North Africa, has relocated to Dubai to lead the bank’s regional operations.

This development occurs amid broader efforts to deepen economic cooperation between Canada and the UAE, including negotiations on a proposed comprehensive economic partnership agreement.