Post by : Badri Ariffin

The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has kicked off 2026 with significant growth signals, showcasing a thriving financial landscape and heightened confidence from global investors.

For the first quarter of 2026, ADGM celebrated a major milestone by reaching 13,353 active licences, which included 961 newly issued licences during Q1. This surge indicates a notable demand for business and ongoing development within the finance hub. March 2026 alone saw an increase of 5.2% in new active licences compared to March 2025, reinforcing the growth trajectory.

Assets Under Management (AUM) also surged impressively by 57%, reflecting heightened activity among both global and regional asset managers.

Dynamic Financial Sector Growth

The population of asset and fund managers within ADGM grew to 179, from 144 in Q1 2025, marking a notable rise of 24%. As a result, total funds managed by ADGM soared to 263, a 43% increase from the previous 184 funds.

New global firms that joined ADGM in 2026 now manage over US$4.4 trillion in AUM, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's status as an international investment nexus.

Expanding Business and Job Creation

The count of operational entities in ADGM reached 3,741, reflecting an impressive growth of 34.52% from 2,781 in Q1 2025. Financial services firms also climbed to 365, a 30% increase from the previous year.

The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) has granted 22 In-Principle Approvals (IPAs) and 29 Financial Services Permissions (FSPs), a remarkable 45% rise from Q1 2025.

ADGM's workforce grew robustly, reaching 47,047 employees—a notable increase of 44%, showcasing a thriving job market and talent acquisition.

Institutional Strength and Trust

This solid performance can be attributed to ADGM's robust regulatory framework and adherence to English Common Law, positioning it as a highly trusted financial centre in the region.

Focus on Education and Skill Development

The ADGM Academy (ADGMA) has generated 441 job placement opportunities for UAE nationals across nine distinct programs. It has also launched multiple accredited upskilling initiatives, including anti-money laundering training and other government-backed efforts.

Global Outreach and Strategic Partnerships

ADGM has broadened its global footprint with engagements in China, India, Singapore, Italy, and the United States while forming a strategic partnership with Shenzhen’s Futian District to boost financial collaboration and innovation.

Participation in the Milken Institute Global Conference 2026 in the US allowed ADGM to connect with major global firms such as Bain Capital, Vista Equity Partners, and Man Group.

ADGM asserts that its consistent growth underscores strong investor faith in Abu Dhabi's stable and progressive financial ecosystem, as it aspires to fortify its stature as a global hub for capital, innovation, and sustainable finance.

#Global News #UAE News #Abu Dhabi News #Abu Dhabi