#Abu Dhabi #UAE #climate action #Sustainable Finance

Abu Dhabi's Sustainable Finance Forum: Pioneering a Green Future

On December 11, 2025, Abu Dhabi hosted the 8th Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Forum (ADSFF), in collaboration with the Global Climate Finance Centre (GCFC), Hanwha, and the EU GCC Cooperation. This event showcased the UAE capital's dedication to establishing itself as an epicenter of sustainable finance. With a lineup of influential climate-finance leaders, innovators, and policymakers, the forum was designed to address the pathways needed for achieving net-zero goals and promoting sustainable investment on a global scale.

The day opened with an inspiring address from Salem Mohammed Al Darei, CEO of ADGM Authority, who emphasized Abu Dhabi's rapid emergence as a leader in sustainable finance. Al Darei explained the critical role of ambitious policies and climate-resilient ecosystems in directing capital towards impactful global solutions. "Our commitment is clear – Abu Dhabi will continue to serve as a destination where capital finds purpose and purpose finds progress," he stated. His remarks laid the groundwork for discussions on investment strategies and regulatory frameworks vital for the transition to a green economy.

Emphasizing Action towards Climate Financing

One of the forum's key sessions, titled 'From Ambition to Action: Financing the Transition to a Green Economy,' featured Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and CEO of Frontier25. She shed light on the current measures being taken in the region to facilitate its transition toward a greener economy and the additional steps necessary to enhance climate action.

Throughout the day, various discussions, fireside chats, and panel discussions delved into crucial topics such as renewable energy investment, biodiversity financing, and the integration of AI in ESG risk analysis. The event underscored the multifaceted approach required to align financial markets with climate ambitions.

A headline discussion focused on long-term capital investment and climate resilience strategies, further strengthening Abu Dhabi's position as a vital hub for sustainable investment. Attendees explored how forward-thinking urban planning and supportive policy frameworks contribute to this transformation.

Women in Finance Forum: Driving Inclusion and Leadership

Coinciding with the main event, the Women in Finance Forum presented an opportunity for prominent female leaders in finance, investment, and sustainability to discuss how to foster inclusivity and drive innovation in the industry. Sessions highlighted the essential contributions of women in reshaping financial practices and advancing climate-related initiatives.

Additional parallel forums, such as the EU-GCC Finance Investment for Green Transition Forum and the Islamic Finance Summit, contributed depth to the overall discussions by emphasizing collaboration among various sectors dedicated to climate financing and green-economy advancement.

New Collaborations and Commitments

The forum marked a significant point in Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW) with new contributions from organizations including J.P. Morgan, ERM, and DLA Piper, which announced their establishment or expansion in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). Notably, J.P. Morgan is set to enhance its payments business in the UAE, further solidifying Abu Dhabi's appeal as a location for substantial financial operations.

During the event's course, 23 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, indicating robust partnerships between local and international entities, showcasing a united front in the journey toward sustainability. The total number of signatories to the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Declaration has now reached 180 institutions, all committed to the long-term net-zero objectives of Abu Dhabi and the UAE.

Conclusion

The Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Forum has become a significant platform for fostering cooperation between various stakeholders in the sustainable finance space. This year's discussions reinforced the urgent need for innovative financial solutions, collaboration, and inclusivity in the transition to a sustainable global economy. With initiatives like ADSFF, Abu Dhabi is paving the way for future generations to build an environmentally and economically resilient world.