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Abu Dhabi Finance Week 2025: A Milestone in Global Finance

Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW) 2025, held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, has concluded on a high note, marking a significant moment in the global finance landscape. With over 35,000 attendees participating from around the world, the event emphasized Abu Dhabi's growing prominence as a pivotal financial hub.

Organized by the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) in collaboration with ADQ as the headline partner, this year's edition saw participation from over 30% international guests, representing 175 nationalities across 68 events and 394 thematic sessions. The participation of 819 renowned speakers and partnerships with over 69 regional and global organizations, including Hanwha as a strategic ally, showcased an unprecedented assembly of ideas and innovation.

A notable highlight of ADFW 2025 was the representation of total assets amounting to over USD 62 trillion, a figure that reflects approximately 53% of the global GDP, attesting to the vastness of capital and inspiration that flowed during the week. H.E. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, remarked, “ADFW has gained recognition as one of the world’s most influential financial gatherings, exemplifying Abu Dhabi’s capability to unite global capital at a significant scale.”

Advancing Global Finance: Discussions and Announcements

The ADFW catalyzed impactful dialogue and announcements that have far-reaching implications for global finance. The event marked the arrival of 11 global financial institutions managing assets over USD 9 trillion within the jurisdiction of ADGM, highlighting a historic moment in global capital consolidation within Abu Dhabi. Major players such as UBS Group, KKR, and Julius Baer announced their establishment and operations in Abu Dhabi, demonstrating the city’s potent appeal to investors.

Additionally, the convergence of finance and philanthropy was palpable. A historic USD 1.9 billion commitment to eradicate polio was made during a pivotal session led by the Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity, with illustrious donations from Bill Gates and other global philanthropists. This unique blend of financial acuity and humanitarian effort solidified ADFW as a humanitarian beacon along with its financial endeavors.

In a groundbreaking regulatory achievement, Binance became the first cryptocurrency exchange worldwide to receive a global license under the ADGM’s regulatory framework, exemplifying Abu Dhabi’s ambition to lead in financial innovation. The addition of ERM, a leader in sustainability consultancy, further emphasizes the financial center's role in promoting global sustainability initiatives.

Recognition as MENA's Financial Epicenter

During this year’s edition, the Financial Centres Competitiveness Index (FCCI) was unveiled, ranking Abu Dhabi as the premier financial center in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and standing at 12th globally. This commendable achievement solidifies Abu Dhabi's reputation on the global financial stage, fueled by the infrastructural and regulatory prowess of ADGM.

Engineering the Future of Finance

Anchored by the theme 'Engineering the Capital Network,' ADFW 2025 showcased Abu Dhabi's role as a burgeoning global finance epicenter. The event served as a platform for collaborating entities to establish Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and strategic partnerships, with 82 significant agreements announced during the week. Participants included BlackRock, Franklin Templeton, and Mastercard, indicating a collective stride towards enhancing financial innovation and building enduring cross-border relationships.

Set to continue this momentum, Abu Dhabi Finance Week will return from December 7 to 10, 2026, reinforcing its status as the leading global financial gathering in the region. As ADFW evolves, it stands as a testament to Abu Dhabi's role in shaping the future of global finance, thus maintaining its esteemed title as the 'Capital of Capital.'

For further information, please visit www.adfw.com.