UAE financial centres report 36% AUM growth as asset manager count rises

ADGM reported that assets under management increased by 36 per cent during 2025, with 171 asset and fund managers collectively managing 244 funds by year end. DIFC reported more than 500 wealth and asset management companies at the end of 2025, alongside 1,052 regulated firms. The number of family-related entities operating within DIFC reached 1,289.

UAE asset managers and fund structures expand#

The growth in regulated firms reflects the expansion of the UAE's financial infrastructure. ADGM's 36 per cent increase in assets under management during 2025 was accompanied by the addition of fund managers operating across multiple jurisdictions. DIFC's total of 1,052 regulated firms includes entities managing capital deployed in markets outside the UAE. The 244 funds managed through ADGM by year end represent vehicles with investors and assets in several regions.

Family offices and foundations increase presence#

DIFC recorded 1,289 family-related entities by end-2025, an increase from the previous reporting period. The centre also reported growth in foundations during the year. Family offices establishing in the UAE manage holdings that may include businesses, investment portfolios and assets located in multiple countries. The structures used by these entities address ownership, governance and succession requirements across jurisdictions.

Wealth management firms establish UAE operations#

The 500 wealth and asset management companies operating in DIFC by end-2025 include firms serving clients with international portfolios. Asset managers based in Abu Dhabi and Dubai raise capital from investors in several markets before deploying it into target regions. Fund managers in the UAE may hold investment interests in Europe, Asia and the Middle East within a single vehicle. The regulatory frameworks in DIFC and ADGM accommodate cross-border investment structures.

Reporting and compliance requirements for multi-jurisdiction structures#

Firms managing assets across multiple markets must address reporting obligations in each jurisdiction where they operate or hold investments. Governance structures for family offices and foundations must account for the legal and regulatory requirements of the countries where assets are located. Succession planning for internationally mobile wealth involves coordination between advisers in several markets. Fund managers in the UAE file reports with DIFC or ADGM regulators while maintaining compliance with the requirements of the markets where fund assets are invested.