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Arabian Business
3 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi's ADGM sees major Q1 2025 growth as global firms, fund managers flock to UAE
Abu Dhabi's ADGM reported a 43 per cent growth in operational entities and 33 per cent rise in assets under management as the financial centre expands its global footprint. ADGM kicked off 2025 with exceptional momentum — cementing its position as one of the world's fastest-growing and most dynamic financial jurisdictions. It means another quarter of robust growth and increased global recognition, sustaining momentum from a record-breaking 2024. ADGM Abu Dhabi Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, said: 'ADGM's Q1 2025 performance marks the beginning of another landmark year. This is not just a reflection of ADGM's capabilities to deliver sustained growth, but also the trust it has gained among global and regional institutions, boosting Abu Dhabi's status as a global financial and innovation hub. 'As the world's safest and most dynamic jurisdiction for asset and wealth management, ADGM continues to expand and diversify with purpose, welcoming leading firms, deepening international partnerships, and driving digital and sustainable transformation across sectors. 'ADGM remains committed to contributing towards capital formation and innovation in alignment with the UAE's long-term economic vision.' In Q1 2025, ADGM saw: 43 per cent increase in operational entities (now totalling 2,781) 33 per cent growth in assets under management (AUM) 67 per cent surge in newly issued licences 17 per cent workforce growth on Al Maryah Island 1,100+ businesses established on expanded Al Reem Island jurisdiction The asset management sector was a key indicator of ADGM's growth last year. During Q1 2025, assets under management (AUM) grew 33 per cent compared to Q1 2024. At the end of Q1 2025, 119 asset and fund managers managed a total of 184 funds out of ADGM. As of Q1 2025, the total number of operational entities in ADGM in Abu Dhabi increased 43 per cent to 2,781, from the same period a year earlier, while the number of financial services entities increased to 367, indicating a 26 per cent growth from Q1 2024. ADGM continued to attract a diverse set of global firms seeking to tap Abu Dhabi's unique financial and regulatory infrastructure. The number of new licences grew in Q1 2025, representing an increase of 67 per cent from Q1 2024. Notable firms establishing a presence during this period include: Skadden Investindustrial NewVest Arcapita Polen Capital Seviora Olive Gaea TON Aquila Group One of ADGM's strategic focuses under the 'Capital of Capital' concept has been human capital. Efforts towards this have resulted in the workforce on Al Maryah Island surging to more than 29,000 individuals, a 17 per cent growth compared to the same quarter last year. Furthermore, a total of 3,509 new ADGM work permits have been issued to businesses establishing on Al Reem Island. In line with its focus on human capital, ADGM also introduced new Employment Regulations, aimed at enhancing workplace protections while preserving business agility. The updated regulations strengthen ADGM's appeal as a global talent hub and reinforce its position as a forward-looking jurisdiction committed to inclusive, sustainable economic growth. During Q1 2025, ADGM completed its jurisdictional expansion to Al Reem Island, which delivered strong results. By Q1 2025, over 600 new businesses had set up on Al Reem Island, and more than 500 existing Al Reem-based companies had migrated to an ADGM licence. Currently, a total of 1,100 new entities operate within ADGM's expanded jurisdiction. In January, ADGM introduced a revised fee schedule, reducing commercial licence costs by 50 per cent or more for non-financial and retail businesses, further supporting SME growth and diversification in Abu Dhabi. The new structure simplifies the previous tiered model and sets a flat licence fee of AED1,000 ($272), making it significantly more accessible for entrepreneurs and SMEs to establish and scale their operations within ADGM's jurisdiction. In March, ADGM signed an MoU with Chainlink, the industry standard for onchain finance. The partnership will enable the development of compliant tokenisation frameworks by leveraging Chainlink's infrastructure and expertise. Additionally, ADGM welcomed Stacks Asia and Bitgrit to its ecosystem in Q1 2025, which will leverage ADGM's world-leading Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) Foundations framework. ADGM officially launched its all-in-one mobile application to enhance the digital experience for businesses, employees, and residents in Q1 2025. It also introduced a groundbreaking digital platform for real estate transactions, enabling fully virtual sell-and-purchase workflows involving buyers, sellers, and financial institutions—a regional first that reflects ADGM's commitment to tech-driven transformation. During Q1 2025, ADGM Academy successfully created 800 job placement opportunities for UAE nationals across nine specialised tracks. These efforts were supported by 23 internationally recognised upskilling and reskilling certifications. ADGM Academy signed two strategic agreements, including one with Arab Youth to collaborate on empowering Arab youth and driving innovation in the technology sector. The Academy also partnered with the Federal Tax Authority to deliver targeted training programmes aligned with the national agenda.
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
ADGM kicks off 2025 with strong first quarter performance
A total of 119 fund and asset managers now manage 184 funds out of ADGM Number of new licences grew, representing an increase of 67% from Q1 2024 ADGM has 2,781 operational entities in its ecosystem, a 43% surge from Q1 2024 Financial services entities grew 26% from Q1 2024, to 367 at the end of Q1 2025 Al Maryah Island workforce surges to over 29,000 individuals, 17% growth from Q1 2024 Abu Dhabi, UAE: ADGM, the international financial centre of the UAE capital, has accomplished another quarter of robust growth and increased global recognition, sustaining momentum from a record-breaking 2024. In Q1 2025, ADGM achieved significant growth across key metrics, supported by ongoing global investor confidence, regulatory enhancements, and the successful implementation of major initiatives within its expanded jurisdiction on Al Reem Island. Meanwhile, ADGM's focus and strategic initiatives to strengthen ADGM's standing as a leading international financial centre reaffirmed Abu Dhabi's position as a global financial powerhouse and a destination of choice for regional and global entities. Commenting on ADGM's growth momentum, His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, said, "ADGM's Q1 2025 performance marks the beginning of another landmark year. This is not just a reflection of ADGM's capabilities to deliver sustained growth, but also the trust it has gained among global and regional institutions, boosting Abu Dhabi's status as a global financial and innovation hub. As the world's safest and most dynamic jurisdiction for asset and wealth management, ADGM continues to expand and diversify with purpose, welcoming leading firms, deepening international partnerships, and driving digital and sustainable transformation across sectors. ADGM remains committed to contributing towards capital formation and innovation in alignment with the UAE's long-term economic vision." Looking ahead, ADGM expects continued growth in the market, reinforced by an increasing interest from international firms across Europe and Asia. ADGM anticipates continued growth as it strengthens its position within these dynamic financial markets. Diverse Growth Within The 'Capital of Capital' The asset management sector was a key indicator of ADGM's growth last year. During Q1 2025, AUMs grew 33% compared to Q1 2024. At the end of Q1 2025, 119 asset and fund managers managed a total of 184 funds out of ADGM. As the sole jurisdiction in the region to adopt the direct application of English common law, ADGM's transparency, stability, legal certainty and familiarity with its established regulatory framework have been a key driver to the growing number of global and regional entities setting up. As of Q1 2025, the total number of operational entities in ADGM increased 43% to 2,781, from the same period a year earlier, while the number of financial services entities increased to 367, indicating a 26% growth from Q1 2024. ADGM continued to attract a diverse set of global firms seeking to tap Abu Dhabi's unique financial and regulatory infrastructure. The number of new licences grew in Q1 2025, representing an increase of 67% from Q1 2024. Notable firms establishing a presence during this period include Skadden, Investindustrial, NewVest, Arcapita, Polen Capital, Seviora, Olive Gaea, TON, and Aquila Group. These firms represent a range of sectors and position ADGM as the preferred premier international hub for asset management, sustainable finance, legal services, and digital innovation. Strategic Human Capital Growth One of ADGM's strategic focuses under the 'Capital of Capital' concept has been human capital. Efforts towards this have resulted in the workforce on Al Maryah Island surging to over 29,000 individuals, a 17% growth compared to the same quarter last year. Furthermore, a total of 3,509 new ADGM work permits have been issued to businesses establishing on Al Reem Island. In line with its focus on human capital, ADGM also introduced new Employment Regulations, aimed at enhancing workplace protections while preserving business agility. The updated regulations strengthen ADGM's appeal as a global talent hub and reinforce its position as a forward-looking jurisdiction committed to inclusive, sustainable economic growth. ADGM's Global Outreach and Strategic Engagements ADGM's international engagement efforts remained strong throughout Q1 2025, further highlighting its role as a global bridge for the growth of Abu Dhabi's financial sector. In January, an ADGM delegation returned to iConnections Global Alts Miami to deepen its relationship with hedge funds, private equity firms, and venture capital leaders. The delegation held bilateral meetings in New York and Washington and participated in a headline panel discussion titled 'Abu Dhabi: The Capital of Capital', showcasing the emirate's strategic access to USD 1.7 trillion in sovereign wealth capital and its investor-friendly ecosystem. In February, ADGM participated in the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development's (ADDED) high-level delegation to China, aimed at deepening bilateral economic ties between the two countries. With the UAE-China trade projected to reach USD 200 billion by 2030, ADGM is reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a vital gateway for Chinese capital into the region. At the beginning of April, a high-level delegation from ADGM travelled to Japan, where they conducted nearly 30 strategic bilateral meetings with leading financial institutions. The discussions focused on key sectors, including private banking, wealth management, and family businesses, reflecting the commitment of Japanese companies to fostering international partnerships and expanding their footprint in the region. Al Reem Island Integration During Q1 2025, ADGM completed its jurisdictional expansion to Al Reem Island, which delivered strong results. By Q1 2025, over 600 new businesses had set up on Al Reem Island, and more than 500 existing Al Reem-based companies had migrated to an ADGM licence. Currently, a total of 1,100 new entities operate within ADGM's expanded jurisdiction. In January, ADGM introduced a revised fee schedule, reducing commercial licence costs by 50% or more for non-financial and retail businesses, further supporting SME growth and diversification. The new structure simplifies the previous tiered model and sets a flat licence fee of AED 1,000, making it significantly more accessible for entrepreneurs and SMEs to establish and scale their operations within ADGM's jurisdiction. ADGM's Strategic Moves for Blockchain Innovation and Tokenisation Frameworks Reinforcing its position as a regulatory pioneer in digital assets, ADGM in March signed an MoU with Chainlink, the industry standard for onchain finance. The partnership will enable the development of compliant tokenisation frameworks by leveraging Chainlink's infrastructure and expertise. Additionally, ADGM welcomed Stacks Asia and Bitgrit to its ecosystem in Q1 2025, which will leverage ADGM's world-leading Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) Foundations framework. These efforts are boosting Abu Dhabi's profile as a rising blockchain innovation hub at both regional and global levels. ADGM's Continued Growth in Sustainable Finance The Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Declaration now boasts 170 signatories, spanning banks, asset managers, investment funds, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Launched in 2019 under the patronage of national financial regulators and ministries, the initiative continues to promote the integration of ESG principles into the financial sector and attract green investment to the region. Some of the recent names that became signatories include Aquila Capital, Century Financial, Oryx Global Partners, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and Olive Gaea. Driving Innovation Through Technology ADGM officially launched its all-in-one mobile application to enhance the digital experience for businesses, employees, and residents in Q1 2025. The app offers real-time regulatory updates, compliance tools, licence renewals, and exclusive networking features. It also introduced a groundbreaking digital platform for real estate transactions, enabling fully virtual sell-and-purchase workflows involving buyers, sellers, and financial institutions—a regional first that reflects ADGM's commitment to tech-driven transformation. Empowering UAE Nationals' Talent: Strategic Collaborations in Technology and AI During Q1 2025, ADGM Academy successfully created 800 job placement opportunities for UAE Nationals across nine specialised tracks. These efforts were supported by 23 internationally recognised upskilling and reskilling certifications. ADGM Academy signed two strategic agreements, including one with Arab Youth to collaborate on empowering Arab youth and driving innovation in the technology sector. The Academy also partnered with the Federal Tax Authority to deliver targeted training programs aligned with the national agenda. Additionally, during Q1 2025, the ADGMA Research Centre published six research papers, with a focus on the growing impact of AI in the UAE financial sector. These publications underscore AI's central role in advancing the sector's development and innovation.
The National
7 days ago
- Business
- The National
Novikov Abu Dhabi first look: London-born bistro brings comforting Mediterranean flavours
After testing the UAE waters with a cafe in the Dubai Mall, Mayfair restaurant Novikov is bringing its Mediterranean flavours in a fine-dining setting in Abu Dhabi. Located on second level of Galleria Mall in the heart of Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, the restaurant is due to open on or around June 14. But I have taken up the opportunity to check out what's on offer in advance. It is located in a corner of the mall by itself, but when I step inside it becomes immediately clear from the plush interior that it has an atmosphere all of its own. Pushing for the best A selection of fresh fish on ice catch the eye, across from a DJ station. The open kitchen, where guests will be able to watch chefs prepare and plate their food, takes up a large part of the space. The seating area is spacious, with comfortable sofas hugging each table and an expansive view of the water canal. Later, when the sun begins to set, a warm yellow glow washes over the area, soaking guests with sunlight and creating a cosy sanctuary. The resident pianist's soft sounds play in the background and a smell of aromatics and herbs fill the air, adding to the overall charm. Once night falls and the lights dim, the space transforms into a lively evening destination, as the pianist suddenly becomes the in-house DJ and the bar lights up. Italian head chef Alberto Dorigo, 26, says he will feel the responsibility of making customers happy. 'We will communicate through taste,' he explains. 'Taste sometimes is much more simple. It creates one unique culture, which is about enjoying food together. 'We are here to create the best restaurant in Abu Dhabi, so we push for that and we're going to succeed.' Italian executive chef Marco Lubian adds: "I like the concept of bringing comfort food to a very high level. Here we have 60 to 70 per cent Italian food and we bring our vision from the Mediterranean sea." Plates from the Mediterranean and beyond Offering more than 45 dishes, Novikov's menu is a colourful and diverse, bringing together comforting Italian flavours, classic Greek dishes and staple Asian bites. One of its signature starters is the beef carpaccio (Dh105), elegantly arranged with thin slices of Parmesan, rocket leaves, small dollops of truffle mayo and black truffle pieces. While the truffle and cheese pairing with the beef is exquisite, the presentation of the dish is even more enjoyable. The pieces of truffle and cheese are extracted to the side, while the carpaccio is carefully rolled up with the arugula stuffed inside. It is cut and served with the toppings, creating a perfect bite into one. The salads are light and fresh, stimulating the palate before the main dishes arrive. The catalana lobster salad (Dh220), made with fresh lobster, celery and potatoes, is a tribute to the summertime. The celery is an unexpected yet pleasant addition to the dish, enhancing the flavour profile to the next level. As for pizza, the black truffle (Dh187) is a Novikov special, made with three cheeses and fresh black truffle pieces adorning each slice. The dough is neither thin nor thick, while the cheese and truffle melt together. If you are a fan on black truffle, this dish is for you. Pasta dishes are a focus of the Mediterranean brand. One of them is the lobster linguine (Dh265) featuring sweet meat tossed in an herby tomato sauce. This dish transported me to the shores of a Greek island, its ocean-fresh flavour distinct with every bite. Another fan-favourite in Novikov branches across the world is the rock shrimp tempura (Dh110), which is fried to a crispy-golden perfection and paired with a spicy mayonnaise sauce. While a simple dish, the visually-appealing presentation and satisfying crunch is a marker of its success. As for the meat, the Australian grilled Wagyu sirloin (Dh480), which happens to be the most expensive dish on the menu, is worth splurging on. Cut into neat slices cooked medium, the well-salted meat is paired with a warm umami-gravy and a side salad with sun-dried tomatoes. Its tenderness is evident and the gravy seeps in the meat's crevices. It can all be washed down with a 'where's your smile' sweet lychee mocktail (Dh50), infused with pieces of strawberry and blueberry. Every sip is refreshing and addictive. The dessert menu is extensive. I try the vanilla gelato with candied cherries (Dh55) and it turns out to be a light yet sweet homage to Novikov's Italian cuisine. Contact information Novikov Abu Dhabi can be found in Galleria Mall, Al Maryah Island. When open, the restaurant will open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations can be made from June 14 by calling 02 563 2937.
The Independent
20-05-2025
- The Independent
10 of the best luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi for Michelin-starred dining and private beaches
Amid the UAE 's stellar constellation of five-star hotels, it takes an extra special proposition to stand out. Maybe that's an exclusive location, Michelin-praised dining, jaw-dropping interiors – or all three? Because when standards are this high, only the very best will do. The following hotels are just that. Without exception, even their 'lowliest' entry-level rooms are extraordinary, with generous proportions and superlative quality: from butler service to designer toiletries, and a veritable feast at breakfast time. Whether you're looking for a city-centre stay or a few nights' retreat in Abu Dhabi's more remote – and exclusive – corners, these are the properties to splash out on. The below prices are all during low season (i.e. UK summertime), making it a great time to grab a bargain, as rates can double or triple in winter. Still, Abu Dhabi offers better value for money than neighbouring Dubai, with quality that puts many of the world's greatest cities to shame. From city slickers to desert wonders, read on to discover Abu Dhabi's most luxurious hotels. 10 best luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi for 2025 At a glance 1. Rosewood Abu Dhabi hotel Al Maryah Island As every supermodel knows, lighting is everything – and this gorgeous hotel has it down to a tee. You can nibble Pierre Hermé macarons in Majlis as natural light tumbles through the triple-height windows, or cosy up with a negroni amongst the honeyed hues of Hidden Bar, whose gin selection is 300-strong. Wine connoisseurs, take your pick from La Cava's choice of 1,000 premium vintages, served in its deliciously dark underground cellar – while sunseekers will enjoy its large sunny pool, with skyscraper views in every direction. As for the rooms, every category features a separate bathtub, evening turndown and Roberto Cavalli toiletries, plus a decadent à la carte breakfast. Address: Galleria Shopping Mall - Level B3, Al Maryah St, Al Maryah Island, MI1, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Al Rahba Located in a former Sheikh's palace, this adults-only hotel sits on one of the capital's most extraordinary beaches – a vision of white sand and turquoise shallows. Spend your days snooping at turtles and stingrays from a glass-bottomed kayak, or feasting on meze salads and grilled tiger prawns at Oia Oasis. Somewhat surreally, the hotel is inspired by Santorini – from its whitewashed domes and voluptuous archways, to the winding walkways and abundant bougainvillaea. But happily, it's far, far quieter than the real Greek deal, with just 22 rooms and no other hotels in sight – so you can snooze to the sound of the waves. Address: Al Jarf 22, Ghantoot, Al Samha, Al Jarf, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 3. Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort hotel Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm's wow-factor lies in its exclusivity: there are just 30 villas (no rooms or suites) in the entire resort, each of which features a plunge pool, private deck and – if beside the beach – direct access to wide golden sands. It's located on Sir Bani Yas, three hours from the city – a surprisingly wild island beloved by Abu Dhabi's ruling family, where the UAE's first president Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan founded a wildlife sanctuary in 1977. Today, it's home to almost 20,000 animals, including endangered Arabian oryx and gazelles. See them on a wildlife drive or nature walk, before retreating to your desert island idyll. Address: Al Ruwais, Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 4. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental hotel From its gleaming marble hammam to the gold-lavished lobby and long private beach, Emirates Palace certainly lives up to its name. You'd be forgiven for thinking it was an actual royal residence: its interiors glitter with 1,000 Swarovski crystal chandeliers, it's bigger than Buckingham Palace, and it cost a reported US$3bn (£2.3bn) to build, making it one of the world's most expensive hotels. All of its rooms and suites offer private balconies, heavenly mattress toppers and deep-soak tubs, while the fully vegan accommodation features 100 per cent plant-based fabric, toiletries and even a special room service menu. 5. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers hotel Located in the five-spired Etihad Towers, the Conrad presides over the entire Corniche, with views encompassing Downtown's skyscrapers, Saadiyat Island's eye-popping Guggenheim and beyond. It rises 69 storeys, and to take advantage of its elevated position, every room features floor-to-ceiling windows and a layout oriented towards that panorama – best admired from your kingsize bed or chaise longue. As well as a fabulous breakfast buffet, the hotel is home to three Michelin-recommended restaurants: Ray's Grill (for steaks), Li Beirut (Lebanese meze) and José by Pizarro (Spanish tapas). Don't leave without trying the latter's spin on patatas bravas: perfect cubes of hot, crunchy layered potatoes, ready to be dunked into rich tomato aioli. Address: Corniche St, Al Bateen, W32, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 6. Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island hotel The UAE has just a handful of all-inclusive hotels, and this Rixos is by far the best. From the dizzying mosaics and dapper doormen in its palace-inspired lobby, to the lustrous palm trees and tinkling fountains in its immaculate gardens – it's all designed to make your jaw drop. Rollerblading waiters nip around the poolside delivering bottomless mojitos, piña coladas and more, while the breakfast buffet is one of Abu Dhabi's biggest (and that's no mean feat). But better yet, Saadiyat Beach is just a few barefoot steps away: kick back on those sugary sands, and keep an eye out for dolphins too... Address: Al Saadiyat Island, SDN1, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 7. Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island The private passageway between the Four Seasons and Galleria Mall – one of the city's top shopping locales – is lined with the likes of Bulgari, Jimmy Choo and Elie Saab, and that's before you even get to the mall itself. As if the Four Seasons brand wasn't alluring enough, it has a world of top designers on its doorstep. Happily, the hotel has myriad places to show off your purchases: over a seafood supper at Cafe Milano, perhaps, or while sipping spritzers at the poolside Eclipse Terrace Lounge. Loosen your belt for dinner at Butcher & Still, whose hefty porterhouse steaks and New York cheesecakes secured it a Michelin recommendation. Address: Abu Dhabi Global Market, Second St, Al Maryah Island, MI1, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 8. The Abu Dhabi EDITION hotel The enormous undulating chandelier above the lobby, the golden-hued lighting that subtly shifts throughout the day, the five-storey-high atrium and its secret water garden: every inch of this marina-view hotel feels considered yet playful, and it's a joy to linger in. Indeed, there are reasons aplenty to rip up your busy sightseeing itinerary, whether that's chilling in the two pools, luxuriating in the spa's volcanic hot stone massages, or simply ordering dish after dish from the à la carte breakfast menu, which is served until 5pm. The Michelin-listed Oak Room is famous for excellent steaks, too. 9. The St. Regis Abu Dhabi hotel At sunset, the sommeliers at Crystal Lounge bar open a bottle of champagne with the swoosh of a sword, a St. Regis ritual known as sabrage. It's just one of the many opulent details at this 49-storey hotel, which soars over Abu Dhabi's beach-fringed Corniche – whose rooms and suites are served by private butlers, and whose décor is lavished with gleaming marble, fresh roses and glittering chandeliers. But the hotel's private beach is what sets it apart: its billowing cabanas and Michelin-recommended seafood restaurant are just a few minutes' stroll away, accessed via an exclusive walkway. Part city slicker, part seaside heaven – the best of both worlds. 10. W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island hotel When the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix comes to town, the W is right at the heart of the action. It actually straddles the racetrack, so guests get unrivalled views of those screaming supercars – whether from the designated viewing deck or their suite's private balcony. But the hotel doesn't just come alive for the races, it dazzles year-round. Think super-sized rooms, poolside DJs and slick décor nods to local Emirati culture – from the lobby's oversized 'fishing nets' to the curtains made from traditional necklaces. The backdrop of bobbing yachts in Yas Marina is pretty luxe, too. The lighting is sexy, the pool is perfect for posing and Saturday brunches are wild.
Gulf Business
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- Gulf Business
WeRide launches fully driverless robotaxi trials in Abu Dhabi
Image: Supplied Chinese autonomous driving technology company WeRide has launched fully driverless robotaxi trial operations in Abu Dhabi. Starting this quarter, WeRide will operate a fleet of robotaxis on public roads in the UAE capital without a safety driver on board, in what the company called a 'major milestone' for the region's smart mobility push. The trial is accompanied by an expansion of WeRide's service coverage to include Al Maryah Island – home to the Abu Dhabi Global Market financial centre – and Al Reem Island, a key residential and commercial district. The two new areas add to WeRide's existing operations on Yas Island, Saadiyat Island and the corridors connecting to Zayed International Airport, where the company has been active since 2021. 'WeRide makes history as the first company to pilot fully driverless robotaxis in the Middle East region, showcasing our autonomous leadership in one of the world's most dynamic urban environments,' said Jennifer Li, CFO and head of International Business at WeRide. 'In parallel, we're expanding commercial service to high-demand areas like Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands – bringing smart mobility solutions to more users in the Middle East. Together, these demonstrate our technological maturity while moving us closer to mass commercialisation of robotaxis,' Li added. The UAE is a key market for WeRide In December 2024, the company launched a robotaxi ride-hailing partnership with The company also serves as a member of the Infrastructure, Regulations, and Pilot Acceleration Working Group under the Abu Dhabi Smart & Autonomous Systems Council, contributing to the development of local infrastructure and autonomous mobility legislation. Commercial driverless rides and additional coverage areas are expected to roll out progressively from summer 2025, pending regulatory approvals. WeRide operates in over 30 cities across 10 countries and holds driverless permits in China, the UAE, Singapore, France, and the US. Its WeRide One platform supports autonomous driving solutions across mobility, logistics, and sanitation sectors.
