Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is celebrating a decade since its establishment, marking a period of robust growth and strategic achievements that solidify Abu Dhabi’s position as a “capital of capital.”
In recent years, ADGM has successfully attracted substantial international investments, top talent, and leading institutions to the capital.
By the end of 2025, the number of active licenses surpassed 12,000, while the workforce grew by 51%, reaching 44,339 individuals. Additionally, the assets under management increased by 36%, highlighting the ongoing confidence in Abu Dhabi as a reliable hub for asset and wealth management globally.
A Pivotal Moment
His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, stated that 2025 represented a critical juncture for ADGM, reflecting significant growth in assets under management. This growth showcases the increasing trust from global partners and the strength of their investment strategies. ADGM has successfully attracted elite global institutions, enhancing its role as a major platform for talent and capital while fostering innovation.
He noted that this progress exemplifies the robustness of the integrated business ecosystem driven by impactful partnerships, sustainable value creation, and a strong commitment to excellence. By aligning its goals with the strategic vision of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, ADGM continues to focus on sustainable growth and enhancing global competitiveness, aiming to position itself among the top five international financial centers worldwide.
The accelerated growth of the financial sector in Abu Dhabi is reflected in the notable increase in new licenses within ADGM, as many leading global firms have chosen it as their regional base. The total number of active licenses increased by 30%, reaching 12,671 by the end of 2025.
Simultaneously, the expansion across Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands attracted a diverse and highly qualified workforce, resulting in a 51% increase in the total workforce to 44,339, compared to 29,338 in 2024.
Throughout the year, several leading companies in fintech, digital assets, banking, infrastructure investments, sustainable consulting, global legal services, and tech-driven financial platforms announced their operations in ADGM.
By the end of the past year, the number of asset managers and funds in ADGM reached 171, overseeing a total of 244 funds. Moreover, 347 financial companies are now based in ADGM, with 80 receiving licenses last year.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) issued 120 initial approvals, marking an increase of approximately 32% from the previous year, while 94 new companies were granted permits to provide financial services.
Over the year, 3,495 new companies joined ADGM, showing a growth of nearly 40% compared to the previous year, which underscores the diversity of companies establishing a regional presence in the financial center.
In December, Abu Dhabi’s global standing was further enhanced when it was ranked as the leading financial center in the Middle East and North Africa, and 12th globally, in the Financial Centers Competitiveness Index published by NYU Stern School of Business. This achievement reflects the strength of its institutional framework, advanced regulatory environment, and readiness for the future.
In November 2025, Abu Dhabi hosted the annual meeting of the International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds, featuring key funds representing long-term institutional capital.
Throughout 2025, ADGM continued to develop its regulatory framework to improve market integrity, enhance transparency, and bolster consumer protection.
The FSRA implemented significant legislative updates in line with international standards, including Basel Committee banking supervision principles and the International Organization of Securities Commissions, and launched a new fund reporting system aimed at enhancing data transparency and regulatory oversight in the asset management sector.
To strengthen international collaboration, the FSRA signed six memoranda of understanding with global regulatory bodies in 2025, facilitating strategic interactions with major global and regional authorities, thus enhancing supervisory cooperation and engagement with international markets.
The registration authority at ADGM introduced several new regulations during the year, covering aspects of commercial permits, consumer protection, data privacy, and modifications to the family wealth management framework.
ADGM showcased its ability to bring together major financial forces during Abu Dhabi Finance Week 2025, hosting its most successful edition yet, featuring 68 events and 394 specialized sessions.
With over 800 influential speakers and around 70 global and regional partners, the event attracted participants managing a combined total of over $60 trillion in assets, representing more than 50% of the world’s GDP, and welcomed over 35,000 attendees, of which 30% were international participants representing 175 nationalities.