Abu Dhabi Global Academy, the knowledge arm of Abu Dhabi Global Market, has reported a year of expansion in national talent development, research output and strategic partnerships, according to its annual report for 2025. The report points to the academy’s growing role in strengthening Abu Dhabi’s knowledge-based economy and supporting the financial sector with the skills needed to operate in an increasingly connected global environment.
The academy said it trained 2,244 Emiratis during 2025, bringing the total number of citizens who have benefited from its national development programmes since 2019 to 10,779. It also widened its reach across the financial services ecosystem and related sectors through training, events and research initiatives designed to support professional development and market competitiveness.
Training, events and engagement
During the year, the academy delivered more than 250 training sessions that reached over 5,000 participants. It also hosted 120 specialised events attended by more than 3,000 experts and professionals. These activities brought together regulators, financial institutions, government entities, academic bodies and sector leaders with the aim of encouraging knowledge exchange, professional growth and collaboration across the market.
The report also recorded strong satisfaction levels, with 94% from students and 86% from clients. In addition, the academy received nine international accreditations and introduced new programmes focused on advanced and emerging areas including artificial intelligence, digital finance, wealth management, governance and future skills.
Research and thought leadership
The annual report highlighted the academy’s research capacity and specialist expertise developed over the year, which it said support market competitiveness and promote constructive dialogue on sector development. In 2025, the academy published 11 research papers covering topics such as artificial intelligence, digital assets, Web3 technologies, cybersecurity, payments, anti-financial crime compliance and financial regulation.
According to the academy, this contribution to thought leadership helps deepen discussion around financial services while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global destination for capital, business and talent. It also supports Abu Dhabi Global Market’s role as a trusted, advanced international financial centre connected to global markets.
Strategic partnerships and innovation
The report further noted that the academy expanded its network through 12 new strategic partnerships with leading global institutions, regulatory bodies and sector-focused organisations. These arrangements are intended to provide internationally recognised learning programmes, research partnerships and market-responsive education pathways.
One of the most significant developments in 2025 was the launch of the RealAssetX Abu Dhabi Innovation Centre, described as a key step in strengthening the academy’s innovation ecosystem. The same year also saw the establishment of the Abu Dhabi Global Academy Technology Centre, which offers new platforms for applied research, technology development and capacity building in emerging technologies.
Hamad Siyah Al Mazrouei, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Global Academy, said: “Guided by the wise leadership’s vision to establish a competitive, knowledge-based economy built on national talent and global capabilities, the academy continues to play its part in supporting Abu Dhabi’s human capital development goals.
“In 2025, the academy further strengthened its contribution to Emiratisation and capability-building by equipping Emirati citizens and professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to keep pace with rapid change, foster innovation, enhance resilience and support sustainable economic growth over the long term. As demand continues to grow for specialised skills in financial services, digital technologies and emerging industries, Abu Dhabi Global Academy remains focused on widening access to world-class education and accelerating research and development.”
(WAM)