ADGM Reports Remarkable Growth in AUM and Licenses in Early 2026

Abu Dhabi Global Market: Leading Financial Evolution in 2026

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the thriving international financial centre of Abu Dhabi, has kicked off 2026 with exceptional results that underscore its significance in the financial landscape of the Middle East, Africa, South Asia (MEASA) region. With a striking 57% growth in assets under management (AUM) alongside the surpassing of 13,000 active licenses, ADGM has fortified its position as the largest financial hub in the region. In the first quarter alone, ADGM issued 961 new licenses, reflecting a strong and continual rise in investor interest and business activity.

This remarkable momentum highlights not just ADGM's strategic vision to position itself among the world’s elite financial centres, but also the global confidence in Abu Dhabi's financial environment, as expressed by His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM. He stated, “The first quarterly figures mirror the scale and pace of Abu Dhabi’s financial ecosystem. Breaking past the 13,000 active license mark while enjoying a 57% increase in AUM signifies a crucial milestone for ADGM on its growth trajectory.”

The significant growth in AUM can be attributed to an influx of global asset management firms, with representatives managing over USD 4.4 trillion in assets now establishing operations in ADGM. This surge underscores ADGM's status as a preferred destination for institutional capital and drives overall business confidence in the financial centre.

Along with the impressive financial statistics, the demographic fabric of ADGM is evolving, with the workforce expanding by 44%, reaching a total of 47,047 individuals. This workforce growth solidifies ADGM as a pivotal talent hub in the region, facilitating the development of a dynamic and globally competitive financial ecosystem. The operational entities in ADGM rose significantly, culminating in a total of 3,741, marking a substantial 34.52% increase from the previous year.

Further bolstering this ecosystem are new initiatives launched by ADGM, particularly in the real estate sector, intending to raise industry standards while enhancing service accessibility. The introduction of the Broker Classification Framework is a testament to this commitment. In February 2026, ADGM opened a Service Centre at The Galleria Al Maryah Island, enhancing its direct engagement with businesses and residents, and furthering connectivity across the economy.

A noteworthy trend is the rising number of regulated asset and fund managers within ADGM, which grew to 179—a 24% increase year-over-year. The total number of investment funds managed through ADGM has also risen to 263, emphasizing the diversification and depth of its funds ecosystem.

ADGM's proactive approach in maintaining its global presence has included forging strategic partnerships and engaging in discussions across key international financial hubs, such as China, India, and Singapore. Notable achievements include a strategic partnership with China's Shenzhen Futian District, which aims to enhance capital markets connectivity and foster innovation.

As the global economic landscape continues to shift, ADGM's resilience and transparency rooted in English Common Law regulation position it well as a reliable gateway for capital flow between regional and international markets. With strong institutional frameworks and a robust regulatory regime in place, ADGM is set to attract more diverse global financial institutions.

In conclusion, ADGM begins 2026 on a strong note, reflecting both its ambitious plans and the steadfast commitment from global firms to establish and expand within its ecosystem. The future looks vibrant for ADGM as it continues to innovate and lead the financial narrative in Abu Dhabi and beyond.