Abu Dhabi Weekly Roundup – Week Ending 12 September 2025

Here is your quick, clear look at Abu Dhabi’s top stories this week. From policy and business to education, health, lifestyle, and events, this roundup keeps you informed.

Top News and Policy Updates

• ADNOC transfers shares to XRG: ADNOC moved stakes in its listed units (Distribution, Drilling, Gas, Logistics & Services) into its investment arm XRG while remaining the ultimate owner. Founders evaluating structures can review our UAE business setup guide. For sector context, see energy market insights from IEA.
• ADGM growth surge: Abu Dhabi Global Market recorded a 42% rise in active companies in H1 2025, nearing 3,000 firms. Assets under management also climbed about 42%, underscoring its role as a global hub.
• du secondary offering: Mubadala’s Mamoura is reducing its stake in “du” via a secondary offering of up to 7.55% (~342 million shares). Five percent is reserved for UAE retail investors.
• Non-oil exports up: Abu Dhabi Chamber reported a 10.3% year-on-year increase in certificates of origin, highlighting growth in non-oil trade.

Business and Economy

• Real estate boom: Property transactions reached AED 51 billion in H1 2025, up nearly 40% year-on-year. Al Reem Island remains a hotspot. Compare buying steps with our UAE real estate tips.
• German investment rising: Membership of German companies at the Abu Dhabi Chamber rose 17% year-on-year, signaling growing international confidence.
• AI and fintech infrastructure: Sovereign funds are backing data centres, fintech, and AI, positioning Abu Dhabi as a global digital-economy hub. If you are exploring launch options, start with our UAE free zones overview.

Education and Family

• ADEK student safety rules: New drop-off and pick-up regulations require supervisors 45 minutes before classes and 90 minutes after school ends, strengthening child protection. For safeguarding context, see UAE Government: Child Protection.
• School assessment change: The Ministry of Education removed centralized end-of-term exams in favor of school-based assessments starting 2025–26.
• NYU Abu Dhabi Executive MBA: NYUAD launched a 23-month, part-time EMBA for senior professionals.

Health and Community

• Diabetes Education Conference: Over 300 professionals met in Abu Dhabi to advance prevention and treatment strategies.
• Emirates Genome Dialogue: New workshops were launched to accelerate personalized medicine and genomic research in the UAE.
• Hotel sector soars: Abu Dhabi hotels reached 79.3% occupancy in August 2025, supported by cultural events and tourism.

Lifestyle and What’s On

• DP World Asia Cup Cricket (13–23 Sep): Major fixtures hosted in Abu Dhabi.
• Al Dhafra FC vs Dibba FC (12 Sep): Local football action for sports fans.
• teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi: Immersive digital art experience for families and culture lovers.
• Yas Island multi-park tickets: Combo passes for Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World, and SeaWorld.
• Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live (27–28 Sep): High-energy kids’ show at Etihad Arena.
• Concerts: Wael Kfoury and Tamer Ashour headline upcoming live music shows.

Opportunities for Businesses

• Trade and export SMEs: Rising non-oil exports create demand for logistics, compliance, and advisory services. See our UAE marketing guides to reach B2B buyers.
• Property developers and services: Strong transaction growth supports brokers, F&B, retail, and community services near hotspots.
• Education providers: New ADEK safety rules and assessment reforms let schools differentiate with compliance and innovation.
• Healthcare and medtech: Conferences and genomic initiatives point to demand for diagnostics, preventive care, and AI-driven health.
• Hospitality and F&B: High hotel occupancy and major events enable themed packages and family promotions.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi advances with financial-market moves, ADGM growth, stronger schools, health innovation, packed events, and a buoyant property scene. Plan your week, review new rules, and align offers with upcoming fixtures and family attractions.

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