ADGM Strengthens Abu Dhabi's Global Financial Hub Status with 54% Growth in Managed Assets

ADGM Strengthens Abu Dhabi's Position as a Global Financial Hub

The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), Abu Dhabi's international financial center, reported a remarkable growth of 54% in managed assets during the first half of 2026 compared to the same period last year. This substantial increase highlights the ADGM's expanding role as a pivotal financial destination in the MEASA region, often referred to as the "capital of capital."

Continued Growth and Expansion

With almost 14,000 active licenses issued, the ADGM has created an environment that fosters international investment and cooperation. The total workforce in ADGM reached 49,027 specialists, marking an increase of 34% from the previous year. The increase in financial institutions choosing Abu Dhabi for structuring and managing their assets underscores the global confidence in the region's stability and opportunities.

According to His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, this growth reflects ADGM's commitment to enhancing the economic landscape of Abu Dhabi and promoting it as a trusted and well-connected financial hub. As ADGM drives the emirate's long-term economic vision forward, it positions itself among the world's top five leading international financial centers.

Asset Management Landscape

The asset management ecosystem within ADGM has remained vibrant in 2026, with managed assets (AUM) rising significantly and continuing a growth trend that began in early 2022. By the end of the first half of 2026, 190 fund managers operated within ADGM, a 23% increase from 154 in the previous year. Notably, 276 funds are currently active under ADGM, representing a 32% growth, in line with the rising appeal of Abu Dhabi for international investment companies worldwide.

ADGM’s recognition as the largest international financial center in the MEASA region is further cemented by its extensive range of services. It registered 13,974 active licenses by June 2026, 1,814 of which were newly issued during this reporting period.

Financial Services Sector Development

The number of operating businesses surged to 3,986, indicating a transformation from a base for startups to a dynamic and comprehensive financial ecosystem. Not only has the number of financial service companies increased significantly – jumping to 392, a rise of 27% – but this growth indicates the thriving nature of the financial services environment in Abu Dhabi.

In the first half of 2026, the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of ADGM granted 50 initial approvals and issued 45 new permissions, reflecting an active regulatory landscape aimed at facilitating growth. High-profile firms such as Capital Group, Man Group, and Bain Capital have established or expanded their operations in the first half of the year, further highlighting the region’s attractiveness.

Talent and Skill Development

Talent development also reflects the ADGM's business-friendly environment. The ADGM Academy plays a key role in advancing the UAE's national agenda for knowledge and talent, with 1,607 UAE nationals trained in the first half of 2026. Innovative programs like the Wealth Management Institute School of AI and collaborations with talent hubs highlight the ADGM’s commitment to fostering a skilled workforce.

This emphasis on education and training is essential as industries evolve, particularly with the increasing focus on sectors like Artificial Intelligence, where more than $100 billion is currently being managed in AI-related investments. The ADGM’s recognition as a favorable jurisdiction for AI investment cements its future as a leader in financial technology and innovation.

Technological Advancements

ADGM’s proactive approach includes significant investments planned through 2029 to develop its technological framework, allowing it to more effectively regulate and support an increasingly AI-driven financial sector. The introduction of AI across 25 business functions in licensing, supervision, and customer service has streamlined operations, reducing manual workloads significantly and enabling quicker response times for client inquiries.

The international footprint of ADGM continues to expand, with partnerships and collaborations being established in key markets like Asia and Europe, strengthening Abu Dhabi’s status globally.

As ADGM moves forward with regulatory improvements and enhanced collaboration with international bodies, the results achieved so far in 2026 show great promise as it continues to shape the financial landscape and maintain its reputation as a capital market leader.