Abu Dhabi Global Market ( ADGM ), the Emirate’s international financial centre ( IFC ), marks its 10th anniversary, reflecting on a decade of growth, regulatory progress, and institutional development.

Since its establishment in 2015, ADGM has attracted more than 300 financial firms that collectively manage approximately USD 28.6 trillion in assets globally, according to estimates from the Alternative Investment Management Association ( AIMA ). These firms include hedge funds, banks, asset managers, private equity, venture capital, and credit funds.

Growth in recent years has been particularly strong: the number of financial firms increased from 131 at the end of 2021 to 308 as of mid-2025—a 135% rise over 42 months. ADGM has also achieved the main objectives outlined in its 2022–2027 Growth Strategy ahead of schedule.

Created to support Abu Dhabi’s broader economic diversification goals and establish the Emirate as a centre for international business and finance, ADGM has continued to expand its activities and institutional base despite global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. It is now the largest financial centre in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia ( MEASA ) region by number of active licences.

From 2015 to the end of 2024, Assets Under Management ( AUM ) within ADGM grew at an average annual rate of 123%. The number of funds and fund managers both recorded an average annual growth rate of 62%, while active licences and operational entities rose by 71% and 62%, respectively.

Commenting on the milestone, H.E. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, chairman of ADGM, says, “aligned with the vision and guidance of Abu Dhabi’s strategic leadership, ADGM has seen unprecedented growth within its short history and matured into a global financial powerhouse, attracting some of the world’s leading financial institutions. As we look to the next decade, our ambition to make ADGM one of the top five international financial centres globally is stronger than ever. Given what we’ve achieved so far, what we can build in the next ten years will be even greater..”

Data for the first half of 2025 show continued growth: AUM increased 42% year-on-year, with 154 fund and asset managers overseeing 209 funds. The number of active licences reached 11,128, while operational entities rose to 2,972.

Building a framework for trust and market confidence

ADGM’s regulatory framework—unique in the region for directly applying English common law—has been a key factor in establishing market confidence. By the end of 2024, financial entities accounted for an increasing share of all operational entities, growing at an average annual rate of 55% since inception.

Strong links with Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth funds, which together manage around USD 1.82 trillion, have further enhanced ADGM’s position as a destination for global asset managers. Recent additions to the ADGM community include major international firms such as UBS, Davidson Kempner, Monroe Capital, and HarbourVest, among others.

Expanding infrastructure and institutional capacity

ADGM’s growth has been supported by the expansion of its physical and institutional infrastructure. Its jurisdiction now spans 14.3 million square metres across Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island—making it one of the largest financial districts globally.

The expansion to Al Reem Island increased ADGM’s jurisdiction tenfold, providing additional capacity for international firms. The area also includes a mix of commercial, residential, educational, and healthcare facilities that support a broader urban and professional ecosystem.

Supporting human capital development

Workforce growth within ADGM’s financial district averaged 23% annually from 2015 to 2024. Today, more than 36,000 professionals work within ADGM’s jurisdiction. This expansion aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader objectives to foster a skilled workforce and attract global talent to the Emirate.

Advancing regulatory standards and financial innovation

Over the past decade, ADGM has introduced a range of regulatory frameworks across areas such as virtual assets, digital foundations, tokenisation, real property, and sustainable finance. Initiatives including the RegLab, FinTech and Digital Sandbox, and the UAE Sustainable Finance Working Group have further supported the development of a transparent and innovation-friendly financial ecosystem.

Looking ahead

In 2024, ADGM introduced its “The Path to Forward” initiative, signalling a continued focus on innovation, connectivity, and resilience. Over the coming decade, ADGM aims to strengthen its role as a global financial hub by advancing regulation, digital assets, sustainable finance, and family office services, while expanding its international partnerships and outreach.

ADGM’s flagship event, Abu Dhabi Finance Week ( ADFW ), continues to serve as a key platform for dialogue among global financial leaders, further contributing to Abu Dhabi’s growing profile as a centre for international finance.