ADGM Sees 33% AUM Surge in Q1 2025, Reinforces Global Finance Role

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) kicked off 2025 with exceptional performance, recording a 33% year-on-year increase in assets under management (AUM) during the first quarter. The surge is a strong indicator of both market confidence and Abu Dhabi’s growing stature as a global financial hub.

The milestone reinforces ADGM’s strategic role in the region’s economic diversification plans and its ability to attract top-tier institutions, asset managers, and fintech innovators from around the world.

Expansion on Al Reem Island Powers Growth

Central to this growth is ADGM’s recent expansion beyond Al Maryah Island to include Al Reem Island, which welcomed over 600 new businesses in Q1 alone. The jurisdiction’s enlarged footprint has allowed ADGM to cater to a wider array of financial and non-financial sectors, adding both capacity and competitiveness to its offering.

The influx of new entities highlights Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a business destination that combines political stability, economic vision, and investor-friendly regulatory frameworks.

Strengthening Abu Dhabi’s Global Financial Status

The latest AUM growth is more than a quarterly success, it reflects years of deliberate policymaking aimed at positioning Abu Dhabi as a financial and innovation powerhouse. ADGM has emerged as a centerpiece in this strategy, hosting global institutions, sovereign funds, fintech pioneers, and family offices.

Its alignment with Abu Dhabi’s broader goals such as digital transformation, financial inclusivity, and capital markets development, has made it a magnet for forward-looking firms and global investment flows.

Commenting on ADGM’s growth momentum, His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, said:

"ADGM’s Q1 2025 performance marks the beginning of another landmark year. This is not just a reflection of ADGM’s capabilities to deliver sustained growth, but also the trust it has gained among global and regional institutions, boosting Abu Dhabi’s status as a global financial and innovation hub. As the world's safest and most dynamic jurisdiction for asset and wealth management, ADGM continues to expand and diversify with purpose, welcoming leading firms, deepening international partnerships, and driving digital and sustainable transformation across sectors. ADGM remains committed to contributing towards capital formation and innovation in alignment with the UAE’s long-term economic vision."

Leadership Statement: A Landmark Start to the Year

ADGM’s leadership describes the Q1 performance as a landmark beginning for what is expected to be a record-setting year. The center’s strategy is focused not only on numbers, but on trust, long-term impact, and sustainable financial innovation.

This includes deepening ties with global regulators, launching new frameworks for virtual assets and sustainable finance, and empowering startups and large institutions alike to innovate from within the UAE.

A Conducive Environment for Global Capital

With its expanding jurisdiction, strong legal infrastructure based on English common law, and commitment to regulatory excellence, ADGM is emerging as a preferred base for regional and international players seeking to deploy capital, access emerging markets, and drive innovation in financial services.

As the UAE solidifies its role in shaping the future of finance, ADGM’s Q1 performance signals that Abu Dhabi is not just participating in global finance—it’s helping to lead it.