Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has completed a decade of operations with robust growth across key financial and business indicators, underscoring Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a leading international financial centre.
Established in 2015, ADGM has grown into one of the region’s most significant financial free zones, serving as a hub for asset management, banking, fintech, legal services and investment activity. Its 10-year milestone comes amid continued expansion in assets, business licences and workforce strength.
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Strong Growth in Assets and Business Activity
ADGM reported a 36% increase in assets under management (AUM) by the end of 2025, reflecting sustained investor confidence and continued capital inflows into Abu Dhabi’s financial ecosystem.
The total number of active licences within the financial centre increased by 30% to 12,671, while approximately 3,700 new licences were issued during the year, highlighting strong momentum in business formation and expansion.
This growth points to rising interest from both regional and international firms seeking to establish a presence in Abu Dhabi’s evolving financial market.
Workforce and Institutional Expansion
The number of professionals working within ADGM rose by 51%, reaching more than 44,000 individuals, demonstrating significant expansion in employment and talent attraction across the financial services sector.
By the end of 2025, the financial hub was home to 171 asset and fund managers collectively overseeing 244 funds, reinforcing its role as a strategic destination for wealth management and investment-related activities.
The expansion of institutional participation further reflects ADGM’s increasing importance as a platform for capital deployment, fund structuring and cross-border investment operations.
Sector-Wide Development
Growth was recorded across multiple sectors, including asset management, banking, fintech, digital assets, legal advisory services and sustainability-focused businesses.
The continued entry and expansion of international financial institutions within ADGM contributed to the rise in licensed entities and strengthened the overall business ecosystem.
Regulatory Strength and Strategic Role
ADGM also continued to enhance its regulatory framework in line with international standards, introducing measures aimed at strengthening financial governance, reporting systems and oversight of emerging sectors such as digital finance.
The performance aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader economic diversification strategy, particularly its focus on expanding non-oil sectors and strengthening its global competitiveness in financial services.
The 10-year milestone highlights ADGM’s growing role in attracting global capital, institutions and professional talent, further positioning Abu Dhabi as a major international centre for finance and investment.
