Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has solidified its position as the largest and fastest-growing international financial centre (IFC) in the MENA region, reporting a record-breaking performance for the first half of 2025. The financial hub saw its total number of active licences surpass 11,000 and recorded a significant 42% year-on-year surge in Assets Under Management (AUM).
By The Numbers: H1 2025 Highlights
- Active Licences: 11,128
- New Licences Issued: 1,869 (A record for a six-month period)
- AUM Growth: +42% YoY
- Operational Entities: 2,972 (+42% YoY)
- Market Cap of Listed Entities: Over AED 500 Billion
Unprecedented Business Activity
ADGM’s growth accelerated in the first six months of the year, with 1,869 new licences issued—a 47% increase compared to H1 2024 and the highest number since its inception. The total number of operational entities within the financial free zone, which includes both financial and non-financial firms, grew to 2,972. This momentum is attributed to ADGM’s progressive regulatory frameworks, access to capital, and its unique status as the only jurisdiction in the region with the direct application of English Common Law.
A Magnet for Global Financial Heavyweights
The first half of 2025 saw a significant influx of top-tier global and regional firms establishing a presence in ADGM. Notable new entrants include Fortress, Circle, Kimmeridge, Partners Group, Polen Capital, and renowned law firm Skadden, among others. This underscores growing global confidence in Abu Dhabi’s role as a financial powerhouse.
Asset Management Sector Continues Strong Trajectory
The asset management sector was a key driver of growth, with AUM surging by 42% compared to the previous year. By the end of June 2025, ADGM was home to 154 fund and asset managers operating a total of 209 funds. This strong performance reinforces the capital’s reputation as a magnet for global financial players seeking access to capital and strategic connectivity.
Hub for Transformative Deals
H1 2025 was also defined by a series of transformative, large-scale partnerships anchored in ADGM, highlighting its role in enabling major investment flows. Key deals included:
- A $1 billion+ AI-native reinsurance platform launched by Lunate, BlackRock, and IHC.
- A $1 billion global credit co-investment partnership between Fortress Investment Group and Mubadala.
- The scaling of the Mubadala and Alpha Dhabi private credit joint venture to $2.5 billion.
About ADGM
Abu Dhabi Global Market is the international financial centre of the UAE’s capital city. Established in 2015, ADGM operates under a regulatory framework based on English Common Law and governs the entirety of Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island. It is consistently ranked as the top IFC in the Middle East and Africa region.
Looking Ahead
Commenting on the results, H.E. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, stated, “As we approach a decade of operations, ADGM’s sustained commitment to excellence is strongly reflected not just in its growth numbers, but also in the rising global confidence in Abu Dhabi’s role as a financial powerhouse and the ‘Capital of Capital’.” As ADGM prepares to mark its 10th anniversary, its focus remains on driving long-term impact through regulatory innovation and strategic institutional partnerships.
Source: Zawya
