14 Major Financial Institutions Announce Plans to Establish Presence in ADGM

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is set to welcome 14 major global financial institutions planning to establish a presence in the financial centre during the first half of 2026, collectively representing more than $5 trillion in assets under management worldwide.

The announcement was made by Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, during the third Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF) in London, highlighting Abu Dhabi’s growing appeal as an international financial hub.

Al Zaabi said Abu Dhabi’s economy grew by 7% in 2025, while its non-oil economy expanded by 8%, contributing more than half of the emirate’s total gross domestic product (GDP).

He highlighted the emirate’s strategic investments across artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, energy and life sciences, describing these sectors as critical to shaping future markets. He also pointed to the growing international reach of Abu Dhabi-based businesses through partnerships and expansion into new markets.

“Abu Dhabi has long-term capital, competitive energy, world-class infrastructure, and access to some of the world's fastest-growing markets,” Al Zaabi said.

He also underscored ADGM’s legal and regulatory framework as a key factor in attracting international financial institutions. ADGM operates under the direct application of English Common Law, supported by independent courts and a regulatory framework designed to uphold transparency, fairness and the enforceability of commercial rights.

Al Zaabi said Abu Dhabi’s economic strategy is focused on long-term growth and sustainable prosperity, rather than short-term capital inflows.

“Our leadership has built the foundations of an economy designed not only to compete today, but to create prosperity for generations to come,” he said. “And as we look ahead, our measure of progress is not simply how much capital comes to Abu Dhabi, but how much opportunity that capital creates.”

The planned arrivals of the 14 financial institutions would further strengthen ADGM’s position as an international financial centre, supporting Abu Dhabi’s broader ambitions to attract global investment, expand its financial services ecosystem and diversify its economy beyond oil.