The Abu Dhabi Global Market ADGM has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 13,353 active licences as assets under management jumped 57% in 2026.
What the ADGM Does
The ADGM is a financial free zone in Abu Dhabi, offering a range of services and benefits to businesses and investors. Established in 2013, the ADGM has grown to become a leading financial hub in the Middle East, providing a platform for companies to operate and grow.
The ADGM offers a range of services, including company incorporation, licensing, and regulatory services. It also provides a range of facilities and infrastructure, including office space, data centres, and a range of other amenities.
Why It Matters for Businesses
The growth in active licences and assets under management is a testament to the ADGM's success in attracting businesses and investors to Abu Dhabi. According to Arabian Business, the ADGM has seen a significant increase in the number of companies registering to operate in the free zone, with over 13,353 active licences issued as of 2026.
The ADGM's growth is also driven by its strategic location, with Abu Dhabi serving as a key hub for trade and commerce in the region. The free zone's proximity to major airports and seaports makes it an attractive location for businesses looking to expand their operations in the Middle East.
Supporting the UAE's Economic Vision
The ADGM's growth is also a key contributor to the UAE's economic vision, which aims to diversify the economy and increase foreign investment. The ADGM's success in attracting businesses and investors is a key part of this vision, with the free zone playing a crucial role in driving economic growth and development in the UAE.
The ADGM's growth is also driven by the UAE's business-friendly environment, with the country offering a range of incentives and benefits to businesses operating in the free zone. These incentives include 100% foreign ownership, no corporate tax, and a range of other benefits that make it an attractive location for businesses looking to expand their operations in the Middle East.
A Digital First for Abu Dhabi's Financial Sector
The ADGM's digital transformation is a key factor in its success, providing businesses with streamlined services and increased efficiency. The free zone has invested heavily in digital infrastructure, including a range of online platforms and tools that make it easier for businesses to operate and grow.
The ADGM's digital transformation has also enabled the free zone to provide a range of innovative services, including a range of fintech solutions and a digital platform for company incorporation and licensing. These services have made it easier for businesses to operate in the free zone, and have helped to drive growth and development in the UAE's financial sector.
