#Abu Dhabi #United Arab Emirates #Financial Center #ADGM

ADGM: A Beacon of Financial Growth in the MENA Region

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has firmly secured its status as the leading international financial center (IFC) in the MENA region, concluding the first half of 2025 with a remarkable total of 11,128 active licenses. This milestone not only highlights ADGM’s rapid growth but also its pivotal role as a catalyst for financial innovation and investment in the region.

At the heart of this expansion is a 42% increase in assets under management, reflecting a burgeoning confidence in Abu Dhabi's financial capabilities. The market capitalization of registered and listed companies within ADGM places it firmly at the top of the regional financial ecosystem, emphasizing the center's strategic objectives to bolster non-oil sector contributions to the UAE’s economy. In fact, Abu Dhabi's non-oil economy experienced a commendable 9.1% growth in Q1 2025, underscoring the efficacy of ADGM’s initiatives.

Transformative Partnerships and Growth

The first half of the year has witnessed transformative business activities and collaborations between prominent Abu Dhabi institutions and ADGM-based companies. These partnerships are crucial in enhancing the center's ability to attract global investments and facilitate strategic alliances within local and regional markets. S.E. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, stated, "As we approach our tenth anniversary, the enduring commitment of ADGM to excellence is reflected not only in these growth figures but also in the increasing global trust in Abu Dhabi as a financial hub and 'capital city'."

The number of operational units within ADGM has surged to 2,972 by mid-2025, revealing a 42% year-on-year increase. This diverse representation includes 308 financial firms along with 2,664 non-financial enterprises, indicating a thriving commercial environment.

In a record-setting achievement, 1,869 new licenses were issued in the first half of 2025, marking the highest figure since ADGM's inception. This represents a 47% increase compared to the prior year, reinforcing the appeal of ADGM as a favorable jurisdiction for business operations.

Regulatory Developments and Strategic Approvals

Moreover, the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) granted 52 principal approvals (IPAs) for financial services firms, which is a 27% rise from the last year. In addition, 45 new financial services licenses (FSPs) were issued, constituting a remarkable 45% increase over the previous period.

ADGM is home to notable global firms like Fortress, Circle, and Bitcoin Suisse, and has expanded its portfolio to include 154 registered fund and asset managers, contributing to a total of 209 funds by the end of June 2025. Noteworthy developments include Fortress Investment Group establishing an office in ADGM and entering a $1 billion global co-investment partnership with Mubadala, further solidifying ADGM's reputation in the international financial landscape.

The engagement between ADGM and prominent global players like Kimmeridge and Mubadala has initiated collaborations in developing natural gas and LNG projects, establishing transatlantic corridors under ADGM’s auspices.

Growing Workforce and Enhanced Regulatory Framework

The rising demand for operational licenses has led to an increase in employment, with the workforce on Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands reaching 35,964 by mid-2025. This growth correlates with ADGM's proactive measures in improving its regulatory frameworks, including four new MoUs signed with regulatory authorities in Azerbaijan, Bhutan, Hong Kong, and Sweden.

ADGM has also introduced significant legal enhancements relating to sanctions compliance and cybersecurity, showcasing its commitment to aligning with international best practices. Such measures are crucial for maintaining high governance standards as ADGM further cements its place as a global financial entity.

The ADGM's Registration Authority has significantly upgraded its processes, launching AccessRP, a digital tool intended to simplify ownership verification, and streamlining regulatory fees to lower the market entry barriers for new businesses.

The Future of ADGM and Its Global Outreach

ADGM representatives participated in the CityWeek 2025 conference in London, engaging with leading figures in the global finance sector to discuss collaboration, sustainable finance, and advancements in artificial intelligence within capital markets. Furthermore, with an extensive delegation, ADGM is actively promoting Abu Dhabi as an attractive location for private banking, asset management, and family offices through roadshows in China and Japan.

As the financial landscape continues to evolve, ADGM’s steadfast commitment to fostering innovation and strategic collaborations positions it as a core player in the future of global finance, aiming to achieve unparalleled heights in the coming years.

In summary, ADGM not only stands as a symbol of financial authority in the MENA region but also as a beacon of growth and opportunity in the global financial arena, setting the stage for further evolution and development.