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

ADGM: A Key Player in MENA's Financial Landscape

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) stands tall as the most significant and fastest-growing International Financial Center (IFC) in the MENA region. As announced recently, ADGM boasts over 11,128 active licenses at the end of the first half of 2025, showcasing remarkable growth and resilience amid the changing economic landscape.

With a striking 42% increase in assets under management, ADGM continues to position itself as a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi's non-oil economy, which saw a rise of 9.1% in the first quarter of 2025. This growth is indicative of the center's successful strategy to enhance its appeal to both local and international businesses.

Record-Breaking Growth

The first half of 2025 has witnessed a surge in operational entities within ADGM, totaling 2,972—a 42% year-on-year increase. This includes 308 financial and 2,664 non-financial businesses, representing a diverse array of sectors keen to tap into the promising financial environment ADGM provides. Furthermore, ADGM issued 1,869 new licenses, marking the highest number registered in a single semester since its inception—an impressive 47% increase compared to the previous year.

The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) has also been proactive, granting 52 Approvals in Principle (IPAs) to financial service providers, which is a 27% increase year-on-year. With 45 new Financial Services Permits (FSPs) issued—up 45%—ADGM illustrates its commitment to fostering a robust regulatory ecosystem that attracts global players.

Strategic Collaborations

ADGM has increasingly become a hotspot for major international firms, such as Kimmeridge, Fortress, and BlackRock, that have established operational bases within its premises. Notably, Fortress Investment Group launched a $1 billion co-investment initiative in credit and real estate with Mubadala, while Kimmeridge entered into an agreement with Mubadala Energy to co-develop natural gas and LNG projects. The partnerships extend ADGM's influence and operational capacity, affirming its role as a facilitator for global investment.

Fintech and Innovation

The ADGM is not just resting on its laurels; it’s also at the forefront of fintech and innovation. The establishment of an AI-driven reinsurance platform by IHC and BlackRock within ADGM is one of the pioneering moves aimed at positioning Abu Dhabi as a nucleus for global financial solutions. The ambition to manage over $10 billion in liabilities highlights the center's push towards integrating cutting-edge technology into its operations, ensuring it stays relevant in an ever-evolving financial landscape.

Global Outreach and Regulatory Enhancements

As part of its effort to enhance its global presence, ADGM representatives engaged in discussions at the CityWeek 2025 conference in London, focusing on regulatory collaboration, sustainable finance, and ongoing initiatives in AI and capital market innovation. Moreover, ADGM's delegation participated in tours across China and Japan, aimed at promoting Abu Dhabi as a premier location for business setup.

To strengthen its regulatory framework, the FSRA announced four new memoranda of understanding with regulatory counterparts in Azerbaijan, Bhutan, Hong Kong, and Sweden. This move is set to expand ADGM's regulatory network and bolster investor confidence. Alongside these international relations, ADGM introduced various legislative improvements to align its frameworks with best international practices in cyber risk and financial reporting.

Conclusion

As ADGM approaches a decade of operation, its steadfast commitment to excellence resonates not only through its impressive growth figures but also through the increasing global trust in Abu Dhabi's role as a financial powerhouse, aptly dubbed the "Capital of Capital." With continued investment in strategic alliances, innovative solutions, and regulatory enhancements, ADGM is well-poised to maintain its position as the leading financial hub in the MENA region.