Post by : Bianca
Haleem
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has further established its standing as a top-tier global financial center as eight significant international financial institutions, managing a total of US$4.4 trillion in assets, revealed intentions to operate from the emirate.
This significant announcement was made during ADGM's participation in the Milken Institute Global Conference 2026 held in Los Angeles. The delegation was headlined by Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM.
Throughout the conference, ADGM representatives engaged with global policymakers, leading asset managers, and institutional investors to discuss Abu Dhabi’s increasing significance in international investment and cross-border financial collaborations.
Al Zaabi emphasized that ADGM's outreach in the United States aims to bolster its relationships with prominent global financial institutions and capital bearers.
He noted that there is a noticeable shift of global capital towards financial hubs that guarantee robust regulations, stability, and extensive global connectivity. ADGM strives to cultivate a reliable ecosystem backed by transparent regulations and modern governance, while also offering access to international prospects.
Al Zaabi highlighted ADGM's status as the fastest-expanding international financial center across the Middle East and North Africa, noting that the mounting interest from firms managing nearly $4.4 trillion in global assets signifies Abu Dhabi’s ascendance in global finance.
Al Zaabi also participated in a compelling discussion alongside Alan Schwartz, Executive Chairman of Guggenheim Partners, addressing global financial innovations, the economic evolution of Abu Dhabi, and the trajectory of international finance.
He remarked that the UAE's economic resilience stems from long-term planning and diverse strategies rather than mere short-term measures.
In March 2026, ADGM granted 284 new licenses—up from 270 during the same month last year, representing a 5.2 percent growth.
Major financial institutions like Muzinich & Co., Hillhouse Investment Management, Barings, and Bain Capital have recently announced plans to advance their operations into Abu Dhabi via ADGM.
Additionally, Hashed Global Management Limited and Rokos Capital Management have received the necessary financial services permissions from ADGM.
Capital Group and Man Group also signaled intentions to establish a base in Abu Dhabi.
During the Milken conference, ADGM facilitated over 50 consultations with influential financial entities including Blackstone, Carlyle Global Investment Management, Coinbase, and Guggenheim.
These discussions were centered on investment avenues, potential business expansion into Abu Dhabi, and ADGM’s regulatory framework based on international norms and English Common Law.
ADGM continues to support Abu Dhabi’s long-range economic vision by affirming its role as a trusted and interconnected global financial center.
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