The four-day conference brings together top decision-makers from finance, technology, regulation, and investment in the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). finews is the official media partner of ADFW, which is now being held for the fourth time.
Organized by the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) financial free zone, this year’s ADFW is taking place «under the sign of dynamic change in the global financial landscape». Stock markets are booming, cryptocurrencies—with their roller-coaster rides—are leaving Web3 enthusiasts breathless, and banks from Asia, Europe, and North America are establishing one branch after another in the Gulf region.

High-ranking government representatives, CEOs of international banks, major asset managers, venture-capital investors, fintech pioneers, and experts in artificial intelligence, blockchain, Web3, and sustainable finance are expected. Among them are Sergio Ermotti, Group CEO of UBS; Philipp Hildebrand, Vice Chairman of Blackrock; Oliver Bäte, CEO of Allianz SE; Jenny Johnson, President & CEO of Franklin Templeton; and Clare Woodman, CEO International at Morgan Stanley, to name just a few. At the last moment, Bill Gates also confirmed his participation.

A broad program with global relevance

Abu Dhabi Finance Week comprises several thematic summits, including:


• Asset Management Forum

• Fintech & Innovation Summit

• Crypto & Blockchain Day

• Regulatory Forum

• Sustainable Finance Track

Each day highlights different focal points and offers discussions on topics such as geopolitical market trends, digital assets, tokenization, AI-powered investment solutions, and Abu Dhabi’s role («the capital of capital») as a growing global financial hub. 

ADGM strengthens its role as an international hub

With ADFW, Abu Dhabi once again underscores its ambition to become one of the world’s leading financial centers. The event provides a platform for new partnerships, investment initiatives, and regulatory announcements that resonate far beyond the region. Assets under management (AUM) within ADGM recorded 48 percent growth in the third quarter of 2025 compared with the third quarter of 2024. A total of 161 asset and fund managers are active, overseeing 220 funds.

The number of active licences in ADGM reached 11,920, including 2,801 new licences issued this year alone. The number of operating companies rose to 3,227—an increase of 43 percent compared with the previous year. The workforce within the banking free-trade zone on Al Maryah and Al Reem islands in Abu Dhabi also grew. Within ADGM’s expanded jurisdiction, the figure rose to 39,870 people. 

A magnet for decision-makers and innovators

Abu Dhabi Finance Week attracts thousands of visitors each year—from institutional investors to startup entrepreneurs in the fintech sector who are shaping the future of finance. With the start of ADFW on December 8, the industry’s attention will be focused on Abu Dhabi for four days. The combination of high-profile speakers, strategic discussions, and forward-looking technologies promises to set the course for 2026 and beyond. The fourth edition of ADFW 2025 will run until next Thursday, December 11.