Hussam Abdulnabi, Aletihad News Center
The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) has seen a notable rise in investor appeal, supported by record-high dividend distributions. Over the course of 2023 and 2024, companies listed on the ADX distributed nearly AED 120 billion (USD 32.7 billion) in cash dividends. According to Abdulla Salem Alnuaimi, Chief Executive Officer of the ADX Group, this consistent upward trend in dividend payouts reflects the exchange’s growing competitiveness in delivering reliable and recurring returns to shareholders.
Alnuaimi also noted that international investors are now looking beyond simple financial gains. They are increasingly drawn to markets that offer a combination of long-term growth potential, policy consistency, and a clear strategic direction – qualities that are becoming defining features of Abu Dhabi’s capital markets.
He explained that with the emergence of geopolitical challenges at the global level and the tightening of monetary policies, capital is increasingly turning toward markets characterized by trust and institutional credibility. Therefore, the emirate of Abu Dhabi stands out today as a comprehensive model, offering an open, influential, and globally integrated business environment.
He added that during the first half of this year, net foreign investment in the ADX reached AED 13.6 billion (approximately USD 3.7 billion), which is equal to double the value recorded during the same period last year. He pointed out that this investment momentum reflects growing global confidence in the market and its ability to offer stable, high-quality investment opportunities in a dynamic and diversified environment.
When asked the reasons behind the unprecedented influx of international investment into Abu Dhabi, Aluaimi responded that there are several reasons, the first of which is that, according to the International Monetary Fund, the UAE economy is expected to grow by 4% in 2025, with inflation remaining at a low level of 1.9%.
He stated that Fitch Ratings reaffirmed Abu Dhabi’s sovereign credit rating at “AA” with a stable outlook, citing the emirate’s strong fiscal surplus and robust sovereign reserves. He added that Abu Dhabi’s GDP reached AED 291 billion in the first quarter of 2025 (approximately USD 79.2 billion), reflecting an annual growth rate of 3.4%. This growth was primarily driven by a 6.1% increase in the non-oil economy, which reached AED 163.6 billion
(about USD 44.5 billion) – now representing 56.2% of the overall GDP. He further noted that in terms of real GDP growth, the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) projects a 4.4% expansion in 2025, accelerating to 5.4% in 2026 – among the highest growth rates globally. This performance, he said, is underpinned by strong momentum in the domestic economy and highlights the continued expansion of non-oil activities, which are expected to grow by 4.5% in both 2025 and 2026.
Alnuaimi stated that the CBUAE’s decision to lower its inflation forecast for the current year from 2% to 1.9%, and for 2026 from 2.1% to 1.9%, sends a positive signal to financial markets, as it reflects a more stable pricing environment.
He explained that in such conditions, corporate earnings remain unaffected by reduced inflationary pressures, which means profits are not at risk of losing value due to diminished purchasing power. This contributes to stronger stock valuations.
Additionally, lowering inflation expectations serves as an incentive for foreign investment, as international investors tend to prefer markets that offer price stability due to the lower associated risks. He pointed out that these elements are clearly reflected in the financial market’s performance, with the total trading value on the ADX increasing by 33.5% during the first half of 2025 to AED 179.5 billion (around USD 48.9 billion). Daily trading values also grew by 31.4%, reaching AED 1.45 billion (approximately USD 395 million).
Alnuaimi concluded by predicting these figures will lead to greater liquidity and deeper markets, underpinned by a growing investor base and an increase in both institutional and international participation.
Product Diversification
Alnuaimi explained that the ADX offers a comprehensive suite of products, including equities, fixed income tools, financial derivatives, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). He noted that the market is now home to 16 ETFs, giving investors access to local, regional, and international markets. This broad access supports portfolio diversification and strengthens Abu Dhabi’s standing as a financial center integrated with global markets. He cited Bloomberg data, which ranks ADX as the most active market in the region for ETF listings and trading.
He continued by saying that in support of regional economic integration and broader financial openness, the exchange launched the “Tabadul” platform. Currently hosting nine member exchanges, this platform enables investors to trade directly across multiple markets through a single interface, improving trading efficiency and widening investment opportunities.
According to Alnuaimi, the platform reflects Abu Dhabi’s strategic vision of expanding cross-border economic connections and advancing the UAE’s agenda for a competitive, diversified, and globally connected economy. In addition to facilitating access to various markets, the
platform contributes to strengthening financial infrastructure and further establishing Abu Dhabi’s role as a central player in both regional and global financial systems.
Foreign Investment
Alnuaimi emphasized that the UAE’s consistent and forward-looking policies have attracted significant interest from international investors. According to UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the UAE was a top destination for foreign direct investment in 2024, ranking 10th, with inflows amounting to AED 167.6 billion (USD 45.6 billion).
He explained that investors in Abu Dhabi today are not just purchasing stocks or financial products. They are becoming part of a growth story underpinned by strong government commitment, solid institutions, and tangible economic indicators. He cited research by Moody’s, Reuters, and the Financial Times, all of which point to the UAE’s capital markets as among the most future-ready in the region.
Alnuaimi also noted that positive ratings from leading global indices such as MSCI, S&P Dow Jones, and FTSE Russell – earned through improvements in liquidity and governance – have reinforced this growth trajectory.
He stressed that ADX has become a key driver of capital inflows and a financial institution that reflects the emirate’s ambitious economic vision. It offers more than just investment opportunities. It represents a long-term development strategy that spans policy, economy, capital, and knowledge.
He concluded by affirming that these combined factors are drawing international investors to Abu Dhabi in record numbers, supported by compelling data, a clear vision, and expanding opportunities.