Man Group Chooses Abu Dhabi as It Expands Deeper Into the Middle East
Abu Dhabi has added another major global financial name to its growing list of arrivals. Man Group, described by The National as the world’s largest listed hedge fund manager, is preparing to establish a presence in the emirate through Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). The London-listed firm oversees about $228.7 billion in assets and has applied for a Category 3A licence, which would allow it to carry out regulated investment activities such as asset management and investment advisory services.
The move is part of Man Group’s broader Middle East expansion strategy. According to the report, the company wants to build a regional hub covering distribution, investment, and trading, subject to regulatory approval. ADGM chairman Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi said the decision reflects the strength of Abu Dhabi’s capital markets and investor confidence in the UAE, while Man Group chief executive Robyn Grew called the licence application “an important milestone” in the firm’s commitment to the region.
Founded in 1783, Man Group has evolved into a global investment firm spanning both public and private markets, with capabilities across quantitative and discretionary strategies. The company has also been increasing its focus on AI-driven and systematic strategies, which it sees as especially relevant in today’s more volatile and fragmented market environment. The report also notes that Man Group previously operated in Dubai International Financial Centre from 2005 to 2016, before servicing regional clients from London.
For Abu Dhabi, this is another sign of ADGM’s growing momentum. The financial centre reported a 36 per cent increase in assets under management in 2025 and now has more than 12,000 active licences across financial and non-financial sectors. Its jurisdiction across Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island has become one of the largest financial districts globally and the biggest in the region by number of active licences.
Recent months have already brought a wave of international institutions into ADGM, including firms such as Bain Capital, Barings, and Hillhouse Investment, as well as other major investors managing hundreds of billions of dollars. For Dubai People, the bigger picture is clear: Abu Dhabi is no longer just growing its financial ecosystem — it is increasingly positioning itself as one of the region’s key gateways for global capital, alternative investments, and next-generation asset management.
