Abu Dhabi's IFC announces 36% Surge in AUM, 51% Increase in Workforce and Over 12,000 Licences in 2025

Core Insights - Abu Dhabi's International Financial Centre (ADGM) experienced significant growth in 2025, with a 36% increase in Assets Under Management (AUM), a 51% rise in workforce, and over 12,000 active licenses issued, reinforcing its status as a leading global financial hub [1][2][4]. Growth Metrics - The number of active licenses in ADGM reached 12,671, marking a 30% increase from the previous year, solidifying its position as the largest International Financial Centre (IFC) in the Middle East and Africa [4]. - The workforce within ADGM grew by 51%, increasing from 29,338 in 2024 to 44,339 in 2025 [4]. Institutional Developments - ADGM attracted a diverse range of global firms, including leading fintech and digital asset companies, which established operations in the financial centre [5]. - Binance became the first crypto exchange to obtain a formal global license from ADGM's Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) in December 2025, enhancing ADGM's regulatory framework for digital assets [6]. Financial Institutions - By the end of 2025, ADGM hosted 171 asset and fund managers managing a total of 244 funds, with 347 financial institutions based in the centre, 80 of which were licensed in 2025 [7][8]. Regulatory Achievements - The FSRA issued 120 In-Principle Approvals (IPAs), a 32% year-on-year increase, and secured 94 new Financial Services Permissions (FSPs) [9]. - ADGM's regulatory ecosystem was strengthened through legislative updates aligned with international standards, enhancing market integrity and consumer protection [14][15]. International Engagements - ADGM increased its international presence through roadshows in key markets such as China, Japan, London, New York, Singapore, and India, signing multiple memorandums of understanding to promote investment opportunities [12]. - The International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds (IFSWF) annual meeting held in Abu Dhabi further established the city as a trusted platform for global capital flows [11]. Recognition and Events - Abu Dhabi was ranked as the number one financial centre in the MENA region and 12th globally in the Financial Centre Competitiveness Index (FCCI) published by NYU Stern School of Business [10]. - Abu Dhabi Finance Week 2025 was the most successful edition to date, featuring 68 events and attracting over 35,000 attendees, showcasing the emirate's growth plans [18][19].