June 10, 2025
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the international financial centre of the UAE capital, has reported another quarter of robust growth in Q1 2025, building on the record-breaking momentum of 2024. The continued expansion of its jurisdiction and the implementation of strategic initiatives have further elevated Abu Dhabi’s global financial standing.
Sustained Growth Across Core Metrics
ADGM experienced notable growth across all key indicators:
- Assets Under Management (AUM) rose by 33% YoY, with 119 asset and fund managers overseeing 184 funds.
- Operational Entities increased by 43% to 2,781.
- Financial Services Firms grew by 26%, reaching 367 licensed entities.
- New Licences surged 67% compared to Q1 2024.
This performance underscores ADGM’s ability to attract global firms seeking a stable, innovative, and well-regulated financial environment.
Leadership Commentary
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, stated:
“ADGM’s Q1 2025 performance marks the beginning of another landmark year. This momentum reflects not only ADGM’s ability to drive sustained growth but also the trust it has earned globally, solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a centre for finance and innovation.”
Jurisdictional Expansion to Al Reem Island
The strategic expansion to Al Reem Island delivered strong results:
- Over 600 new businesses established operations in the new jurisdiction.
- 500+ existing firms migrated to ADGM licences.
- A total of 1,100 new entities now operate in the expanded zone.
- 3,509 new work permits were issued, and workforce size on Al Maryah Island grew 17%, reaching over 29,000 professionals.
Enhancing Business Accessibility and Talent Appeal
ADGM introduced a new flat licence fee of AED1,000 for non-financial and retail entities, reducing costs by up to 50% and supporting SME growth. Additionally, updated Employment Regulations strengthened workplace protections and business agility, enhancing ADGM’s attractiveness to global talent.
Digital and Regulatory Innovation
Key digital and regulatory achievements in Q1 2025 include:
- Launch of a new mobile app for businesses, residents, and employees.
- Introduction of a digital real estate transaction platform, enabling fully virtual property workflows—a first in the region.
- Partnership with Chainlink to develop compliant tokenisation frameworks under ADGM’s DLT Foundations framework.
- Onboarding of Stacks Asia and Bitgrit to strengthen the blockchain ecosystem.
Human Capital and Education Initiatives
The ADGM Academy achieved:
- 800 job placements for UAE nationals.
- Delivery of 23 global certifications across nine specialised career tracks.
- Strategic partnerships, including with Arab Youth and the Federal Tax Authority, to support tech innovation and national development goals.
- Publication of six research papers focused on AI’s growing role in the UAE’s financial sector.
Global Recognition and Momentum
With firms like Skadden, Investindustrial, Arcapita, Polen Capital, TON, Olive Gaea, and Aquila Group joining its ranks, ADGM continues to deepen international partnerships and diversify its ecosystem, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming the “Capital of Capital.”
