ADGM

Policy & Legal Updates

Regional Tensions Fail to Slow Asset Management Growth in UAE Financial Hubs

Asset management and fund setup activity across DIFC and ADGM has rebounded strongly following the summer months despite regional tensions. According to an analysis published in Funds Global MENA by law firm Simmons & Simmons, proximity to sovereign wealth funds and engaged regulators continue to draw international asset managers. The influx spans hedge fund startups, European relocations, and new regulated fund launches.

China–UAE News

Alibaba Expands UAE Data Centres as Abu Dhabi Finance Week Widens Global Agenda

Alibaba announced plans at the Apsara Conference to expand its data centre facilities in the UAE over the next 12 months to meet enterprise AI and cloud demand. Concurrently, Abu Dhabi Global Market unveiled the agenda for Abu Dhabi Finance Week 2026, which will host 75 events including dedicated bilateral forums with China. More than 300 financial leaders representing over USD 61 trillion in assets are confirmed to attend the Abu Dhabi gathering in December 2026.

China–UAE News

Abu Dhabi Finance Week 2026 Adds Dedicated China Bilateral Investment Forums

Abu Dhabi Global Market announced an expansion of the fifth Abu Dhabi Finance Week to include dedicated country-focused forums. Key additions include bilateral dialogues centered on China to facilitate cross-border capital allocation. The platform aims to connect sovereign wealth managers, institutional investors, and corporate leaders from China and the UAE.