Finance – Sahm Secures DFSA Licence to Expand UAE Investment Services
Finance – Sahm has taken a major step in strengthening its footprint in the Middle East after receiving regulatory approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). The licence, granted to its UAE-based arm Sahm Financial Limited, enables the company to operate within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a key financial hub in the region.
Licence Enhances Regulatory Standing in UAE
With this approval, Sahm Financial Limited is now permitted to offer a range of regulated financial services. These include providing advice on financial products, facilitating investment deals, and executing transactions on behalf of clients. The licence also allows the firm to work directly with retail investors and manage client assets, subject to strict regulatory oversight aimed at protecting investors and ensuring market transparency.
This development marks a significant milestone for the company as it transitions into a fully regulated entity within one of the world’s most competitive financial ecosystems.
Leadership Highlights Strategic Importance
Steven Chou, Chairman of Sahm Financial Limited in DIFC and Sahm Capital in Saudi Arabia, described the licence as a meaningful achievement for the group. He noted that Dubai continues to attract a diverse and knowledgeable investor base, driven by strong interest in modern and globally connected financial solutions.
According to Chou, the company intends to contribute to this dynamic environment by offering investors wider access to both regional and international markets. He also emphasized the importance of delivering a secure and user-friendly trading experience tailored to evolving investor needs.
Building on Saudi Arabia Success
Sahm’s expansion into the UAE follows its rapid growth in Saudi Arabia, where its local entity received approval from the Capital Market Authority in 2024. Since then, the firm has developed a comprehensive digital platform that allows users to trade in both Saudi and US markets from a single interface.
The Sahm App has gained strong traction among investors, particularly for its simplicity, efficient tools, and responsive customer service. The platform has already crossed one million users, reflecting growing trust in its offerings across the Saudi market.
Strengthening Presence Across GCC
With regulatory approvals now in both Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Sahm is positioned to serve a broader investor base across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The company aims to cater to increasing demand for accessible, technology-driven investment services in the region.
Its approach focuses on combining innovation with compliance, ensuring that all operations meet high regulatory standards while delivering seamless financial solutions. This dual focus is expected to play a crucial role in sustaining long-term growth.
Company Background and Global Reach
Sahm Financial Limited operates from DIFC as part of Valuable Capital Group Limited, a global fintech firm providing multi-asset investment services across various markets. The group has established licensed entities in several major financial centers, including Hong Kong, the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore.
A large portion of its workforce is dedicated to research and development, supporting the company’s emphasis on technology-driven solutions. This focus has helped the group build integrated platforms that cater to diverse investment needs.
Recent Investment and Future Outlook
In early 2025, Valuable Capital Group secured a $48 million strategic investment led by ewpartners, a firm backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. The investment reflects growing confidence in the company’s business model and its expansion strategy across key markets.
Looking ahead, Sahm plans to continue enhancing its services while maintaining strict compliance with regulatory frameworks. By expanding its presence and refining its technology, the company aims to provide investors across the Middle East with more flexible and reliable investment opportunities.