Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) marked its 10th year with strong expansion across key metrics, highlighting its rapid evolution into a global financial hub.
Assets under management (AUM) grew by 36 percent in 2025, reflecting increased investor confidence and the rising scale of capital being deployed through the center.
Surge in Licenses and Business Activity
ADGM issued 3,769 new licenses during the year, taking the total number of active licenses to 12,671, a 30 percent increase year-on-year.
This growth signals a sharp rise in business activity, with more global and regional firms choosing ADGM as their base for operations.
The ecosystem also expanded significantly, with 3,495 operational entities joining in 2025, marking nearly 40 percent growth compared to the previous year.
Workforce Expansion Reflects Talent Inflow
The expansion in business activity translated directly into job creation.
ADGM’s workforce increased by 51 percent, rising from 29,338 in 2024 to 44,339 in 2025, as talent continued to flow into Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands.
This growth reflects the center’s ability to attract a highly skilled and diverse workforce aligned with global financial services demand.
Rise in Asset and Fund Management Activity
The number of asset and fund managers within ADGM reached 171, collectively managing 244 funds.
This positions ADGM as a key destination for asset management firms looking to access regional and international capital markets.
Global Institutions Strengthen Presence
Several major international players established operations within ADGM during the year, including Cantor Fitzgerald, BBVA, Arab Bank Switzerland, and Plenary Middle East.
Their entry reinforces ADGM’s growing reputation as a gateway for global capital and financial expertise.
Regulatory Milestones and Innovation
In a notable regulatory development, Binance became the first crypto exchange to secure a formal global license from ADGM’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) in December 2025.
Additionally, the FSRA issued 120 In-Principle Approvals during the year, reflecting a 32 percent increase and signaling strong pipeline activity.
Global Recognition and Positioning
Abu Dhabi’s financial ecosystem received further validation through its ranking in the Financial Centre Competitiveness Index (FCCI), published by NYU Stern School of Business.
The capital was ranked first in the MENA region and 12th globally, highlighting its institutional strength, regulatory framework, and long-term growth potential.
What to Expect Next
ADGM’s growth trajectory reflects a deliberate strategy focused on scale, regulation, and global integration.
With rising AUM, increasing institutional participation, and continued talent inflow, the financial center is positioning itself to compete among the world’s top international financial hubs while aligning closely with Abu Dhabi’s broader economic vision.
Source: Entrepreneur Middle East
