• Four major French asset management firms—Ardian, BNP Paribas, Tikehau Capital, and Eiffel Investment Group have offices in ADGM as part of their strategy to expand their global footprint.
  • Aimed at reinforcing investment ties between the two nations, forging strategic alliances, identifying new opportunities, and driving mutual economic growth.

Abu Dhabi, UAE: Following the resounding success of its inaugural edition, ADGM, the leading international financial centre of the UAE’s capital, hosted the second edition of the UAE-France Investors Meetup. This exclusive gathering, led by His Excellency Bruno Le Maire, the French Minister of Economy, Finance, and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty, is designed to foster partnerships between the two nations through dialogues on investment opportunities and areas of collaboration within UAE-French financial landscape.

In line with the UAE’s commitment to developing international cooperation through collaboration with partner countries, this meeting, held in the presence of His Excellency Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer, Mubadala Investment Company, served as a vital platform for strengthening economic and financial ties between the UAE and France, building on long-standing bilateral strategic relations. In his opening remarks, His Excellency commented on the historic and broad economic ties, as foundations for France and the Emirates to significantly expand their investment ties across future industries and new value chains.

This year's event also witnessed active participation from the UAE and France, facilitating discussions on opportunities, exploring new avenues for collaboration in key sectors, and enhancing mutual understanding of both financial landscapes.

Commenting on the successful event, His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), said, “We welcome His Excellency Bruno Le Maire and the French delegation. The partnership between France and the UAE has strengthened over the years, with trade contributing to the growth and economic diversification of both nations. These meetups are crucial for discussing the evolution of economic systems and rethinking cross-border trade and investments. Abu Dhabi has played a pivotal role in facilitating these important dialogues, providing a platform for informed discussions and strategic partnerships. By hosting events like the annual Investor Meetup, we emphasize our commitment to fostering international cooperation and driving economic growth. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with France and exploring new avenues for collaboration that will benefit both our countries.”

Bruno Le Maire, Minister of the Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty, declared: “France and the United Arab Emirates have never ceased to strengthen their relationship. Today marks a new stage in the deepening of our economic and financial ties. The format of this meeting is a success: it enables us to diversify and broaden our cooperation, drawing on the diversity of each other's resources and capabilities to support the ambitions of our two countries.”

Bertrand Rambaud, Chairman of France Invest, said: “As the leading private capital industry in the EU, deepening our ties with the fast-growing financial ecosystem in Abu Dhabi is a key priority. The region offers a wide range of opportunities for GPs and portfolio companies. We were delighted to exchange with stakeholders and policymakers with the full support of French and Abu Dhabi authorities.”

Additionally, this year’s event reiterated a successful format, offering participants the opportunity to pre-select the best-performing French private equity funds for tailored 15-minute speed dating sessions. Through these bespoke encounters and informal meetings, attendees had the chance to engage directly with key executives, fostering meaningful connections and exploring potential avenues for collaboration.

The UAE-France Investors Meetup represented a unique opportunity for stakeholders in both countries to forge strategic alliances, identify new opportunities, and drive mutual growth. As the event returns to ADGM, it reaffirms Abu Dhabi’s position as a global financial hub and underscores the enduring strength of the Franco-Emirati partnership.

Along with the French minister, the French delegation to Abu Dhabi included high level representatives from top-tier French asset management companies.

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About Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is the international financial centre (IFC) of the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, which opened for business on 21 October 2015. ADGM augments Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading financial centre and a business hub serving as a strategic link between the growing economies of the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and the rest of the world.

Operating within an international regulatory framework based on the direct application of English Common Law, ADGM governs the entirety of Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island collectively designated as the financial free zone of Abu Dhabi.

ADGM is ranked as one of the most preferred and top-ranking IFCs in the Middle East and Africa region and named MENA’s largest Fintech hub. Its progressive and inclusive business ecosystem gravitates toward global financial and non-financial institutions whilst leveraging synergies between ADGM and multiple jurisdictions positioned as one of the world’s most advanced, diverse, and progressively governed financial hubs.

For more details on ADGM, please visit www.adgm.com or follow us on Twitter and Instagram:

@adglobalmarket and LinkedIn: @Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)

For media queries please contact: 
Simon Hailes 
Managing Director Middle East  
Edelman Smithfield
E: simon.hailes@edelmansmithfield.com  

Kaja Mhisen
Corporate Communications, ADGM 
E: media@adgm.com