ADGM Marks 10 Years With Record Growth and Global Rise

Marking a decade of operations, Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has delivered a year of exceptional growth and strategic progress, reinforcing its position as a leading international financial centre (IFC) and advancing Abu Dhabi’s global financial standing.

In 2025, ADGM recorded significant expansion across key metrics. The number of active licences rose by 30 per cent to reach 12,671, while its workforce grew by 51 per cent to 44,339 professionals. Assets Under Management (AUM) also surged by 36 per cent, reflecting growing global confidence in Abu Dhabi as a trusted hub for asset and wealth management.

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, described 2025 as a “defining year,” highlighting strong investment performance, increasing global participation, and the centre’s growing reputation as a gateway for capital, talent and innovation.

ADGM continued to attract major international firms across sectors such as fintech, digital assets, banking, sustainability, and legal services. Notable companies including Circle, Binance, BBVA, UBS Group, KKR, and Julius Baer established or expanded their presence within the financial centre.

In a landmark regulatory development, Binance became the first crypto exchange to receive a global licence from ADGM’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), strengthening the emirate’s position in the digital asset ecosystem.

The financial hub now hosts 171 asset and fund managers overseeing 244 funds, along with 347 financial institutions, reflecting its rapid ecosystem growth. Additionally, 3,495 operational entities joined ADGM in 2025, marking a nearly 40 per cent increase year-on-year.

Abu Dhabi’s global financial reputation also gained recognition as it ranked first in the MENA region and 12th worldwide in the Financial Centre Competitiveness Index (FCCI).

Throughout the year, ADGM strengthened international partnerships through roadshows across major global markets including China, Japan, the UK, the US, Singapore and India, signing multiple agreements to boost investment flows.

Regulatory advancements remained a key focus, with the FSRA introducing new frameworks aligned with global standards to enhance transparency, consumer protection and oversight. New initiatives included a Funds Reporting Regime and updated digital asset guidelines.

Meanwhile, ADGM expanded its real estate jurisdiction following the integration of Al Reem Island, launching over 70 digital services to streamline property transactions and improve efficiency.

A major highlight was the announcement of a AED60 billion joint venture between Mubadala and Aldar to expand Al Maryah Island, further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a global financial district.

On the human capital front, ADGM Academy supported over 9,500 individuals through training programmes, created 6,000 job opportunities, and helped 3,000 graduates enhance employability skills.

With sustained growth, global recognition, and continuous innovation, ADGM is firmly on track to achieve its ambition of becoming one of the world’s top five international financial centres.