Finovate has teamed up with the UAE’s Ministry of Finance this week to support the region’s growth of financial, banking and payments technology.

Attendees of the announcement event, held earlier today, received a sneak peek of what to expect at FinovateMiddleEast, which will take place February 26 and 27 in Dubai. Today’s event featured a panel discussion titled Innovation versus Digital Disruption: Perspectives from Banks and Fintechs. During the panel, Jagadeshwaran Kothandapani and Shadab Ahmed of Citi, as well as Sara Grinstead of RAKBank talked about the need for collaboration and partnerships between fintechs and FIs, as well as the need to embrace change, adopt new technology, and manage risk.

Finovate VP Heather Stowell noted that Finovate is also embracing fintech in the UAE, saying, “Supporting fintech globally is the crux of Finovate. We are excited to showcase the region’s fintechs, as well as grow the dialogue and interest in fintech for the region and the UAE as a fintech hub.”

FinovateMiddleEast will take place during UAE Innovation Month and Dubai Innovation Week. The show will bring together early-stage startups, leading established companies, media, financial service institutions, and funders. Book your ticket before December 21 and save up to $400.

With the UAE Ministry of Finance as the strategic partner, FinovateMiddleEast is supported by platinum sponsor UAE Exchange, silver sponsor Temenos, and bronze sponsor Loxon.