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MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
A city built on excellence and passion In just three decades, Abu Dhabi has transformed from a small coastal settlement into a global destination for trade, investment and innovation guided by the UAE’s long-term economic vision
New York
Busan
14 flight hours
8 - 9 flight hours
Europe 7 - 8 flight hours
Abu Dhabi
Global connectivity hub
Connect to the world’s leading business and trade centres with ease
Shanghai 8 - 9 flight hours
Singapore 8 - 9 flight hours
Sydney 14 flight hours
1960s
1971
1970 – 1980s
1990s
2000s
2012
2024
Oil discovery
UAE established
Infrastructure and institutional development
Economic diversification begins
Global connectivity and knowledge economy
Khalifa Port inauguration
World’s fastest rising maritime city
PAGE 02
Abu Dhabi provides a holistic maritime ecosystem We bring together all value chain stakeholders to shape Abu Dhabi into a leading maritime centre
Supported by a dedicated maritime cluster organisation
$8.1B
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
Maritime sector contribution to Abu Dhabi’s economy in 20231
Shipping 74%
Increase in ship ownership from 2022 to 20242
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Ports and logistics +35%
Increase in TEU volume from 2022 to 20244
#
11
#
Most attractive choice for relocating shipping operations3
Container port operations efficiency globally, 20235
Professional services # 10
Maritime technology # 9
Top 15
#
Location for maritime IPO and bond market values6
Choice as world’s leading centres of maritime finance7
3
Most attractive choice for relocating R&D8
10
Most attractive choice for digital transformation9
Domestic and leisure # 1 230+ World’s best cruise terminal Zayed Port, Abu Dhabi, 202310
Islands for leisure and tourism11
45,000 sqkm Of waterbody12
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GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
Join Abu Dhabi’s next maritime growth phase Abu Dhabi is one of the world’s fastest-rising maritime hubs, climbing 10 places since 2022 to rank 22nd in the Leading Maritime Cities (LMC) global benchmarking report
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Ranked in 2024
22
nd
Highest global jump, Ranked 2nd regionally and 22nd globally
Ras Al Khaimah Umm Al Quwain Ajman Sharjah Dubai
Fujairah
Abu Dhabi
Emirate on the move
Abu Dhabi
In 2022, Abu Dhabi was ranked 32nd
Maritime vision
Maritime mission
A future-ready maritime sector positioning Abu Dhabi as a leading global maritime hub
To deliver a safer, inclusive, more sustainable, and globally competitive maritime future
LMC 2024 download: In 2014, Abu Dhabi was not placed in the ranking
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MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
Business-friendly framework
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Global connectivity and infrastructure
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
Skilled talent and training
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Quality of life
Capitalise on Abu Dhabi’s business environment Core forces driving Abu Dhabi’s competitiveness and attractiveness
Business-friendly framework
Global connectivity and infrastructure
• • •
• • •
0% Personal income tax 100% Repatriation of funds #2 World’s leading destination for foreign investment13
World-class deep-water port and globally partnered #1 AI data centre infrastructure, outside USA16 3 International airports within 120 km radius
Quality of life
Skilled talent and training
• • •
• • •
World-class education and healthcare #2 World’s most cultural city14 #4 World’s best country for expats to live/work15
#9 Globally for talent ranking17 200+ Nationalities18 Diverse white and blue-collar workforce
PAGE 05
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
Business-friendly framework
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Global connectivity and infrastructure
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Skilled talent and training
Quality of life
Leverage from our flexible visas, favourable tax regime and easy business set up Flexible long-term residency visas Investors/yachts owners/ specialised talents
5-10 years Property owner
Up to 2 years
Favourable tax regime and foreign ownership 0% Personal income tax 0% Withholding tax 0% Capital gains tax 0% Customs duty on industrial raw materials and machinery 9% Corporate tax only on profits >$100K
Remote work
Live in Abu Dhabi, work remotely for a company outside the UAE
100% Foreign ownership possibility
Up to 2 years
100% Repatriation of funds
Robust ecosystem $3B Startup investment funding in 202619 Business friendly framework: Codes of practice aligned with global standards20 VAT relief programme No minimum capital
Easy business setup Mainland setup:
2-4 weeks Free-zone set up:
1-2 weeks
1700+ Maritime companies21
Fast-track options, business setup within
100+ Freelancer licence categories, no office required22
5 days
PAGE 06
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Business-friendly framework
Global connectivity and infrastructure
Grow in a resilient, wealth-backed economy that is accelerating diversification beyond oil
Skilled talent and training
1 2023
$310+B Non-oil
46.6%
Abu Dhabi GDP growth and diversification23
$8.1B (3%)
GDP contribution from maritime sector in 202324
Quality of life
Domestic wealth
#1
Oil
53.4%
Strong global investor confidence and a high-growth investment environment
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
World’s richest city by capital managed by sovereign wealth funds, according to global SWF, 2024
3
Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWFs) in Abu Dhabi
$1.7T
Under SWF’s management, 2024
2
Focus area for foreign direct investment
Renewable energy IT and software
Business services Real estate
#2 #10 $45.6B
World’s destination for foreign investment, Brand Finance Global City Index 2025 Global rank in FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) inflow UNCTAD’s World Investment Report 2025 FDI in 2024, reached and outperformed the global average of $8B per country
PAGE 07
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
Business-friendly framework
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Global connectivity and infrastructure
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Skilled talent and training
Connect through our established industry network
Quality of life
Abu Dhabi’s collaborative maritime ecosystem, spanning ports, regulators, technology providers, and sustainability initiatives creates an environment where innovation and operational excellence thrive.” — Global Logistic Company, Member of MHAD
Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi (MHAD)
Emirates Shipping Association
Maritime Sustainability Research Centre, Abu Dhabi (MSRCAD)
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) Ocean Institute
Maritime cluster organisation bringing together public and private stakeholders
Membership-based association representing the UAE shipping sector, supporting collaboration
Knowledge lab driving the development of new ideas and solutions for a sustainable maritime sector
Interdisciplinary research institute focusing on holistic protection of the UAE’s coastal marine life
Industry Network
Emirates Maritime Law Association (EMLA)
Leisure Marine Association (LMA)
Hub71
Unified platform for legal practitioners advancing legal standards and expertise
Membership-based association bringing together leisure marine and recreational boating sector
Government-backed incubator and funding platform supporting start-ups and scale-ups
410+
Startups in ecosystem
$3B
Funds secured to date
PAGE 08
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
Business-friendly framework
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Global connectivity and infrastructure
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
Skilled talent and training
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Quality of life
Strengthen partnerships and expand your network through year-round events
Awards and recognitions
Trade shows and expos
Conferences and summits
PAGE 09
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Global connectivity and infrastructure
Business-friendly framework
Skilled talent and training
Stay strategically connected from Abu Dhabi, through integrated multimodal mobility Sea
Air
Ranked among the world’s 20 largest container port operators25
50+
Countries
38
Ports and terminals
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
UAE’s national carrier airline
Quality of life
4 Continents
$2.5T
Operate in real time out of Abu Dhabi across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America
Trade Agreements Leverage UAE’s expanding network of trade agreements, including Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) and the Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA)
Land
UAE’s national railway network and operator
3
27,000+ km
International airports within 120 km radius
Of high-quality roads linking air, sea, and land transport
125+
1,200+ km
International destinations accessible from Abu Dhabi
Of Etihad rail network connecting 11 cities across UAE and regions
PAGE 10
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Global connectivity and infrastructure
Business-friendly framework
Skilled talent and training
Leverage Abu Dhabi’s AI and cybersecurity excellence through advanced infrastructure
#1
AI data centre infrastructure, outside USA26
$46B
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Quality of life
99% AI market by 203027, 13 times growth from 2024
Global Cyber Security Centre of Excellence in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with Google Cloud
$3.54B
20,000+
Secure and advanced digital ecosystem for businesses and institutions across all sectors
Investment approved to foster digital infrastructure under the Digital Strategy 2025-2027
New cybersecurity jobs by 2030 by the Centre
Internet penetration rate, one of the highest in the world29
#5
In digital infrastructure, smart technology adoption28
A key enabler of Abu Dhabi’s cyber and digital security
PAGE 11
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
Business-friendly framework
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Skilled talent and training
Global connectivity and infrastructure
Gain ready access to a diverse professional workforce that blends local and global expertise Scale workforce
Workforce growth
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Quality of life
#1 #9
#10
Globally in labour market efficiency30
Most attractive choice for headquarters relocation32
Globally for talents readiness and skills availability31
Talent pipeline
Female leadership
2.7M
13%
54%
30%
200+
6.3%
500
15%
Workforce in Abu Dhabi33
Nationalities living in Abu Dhabi34
Workforce growth35
Skilled labour growth36
Youth workforce in the labour market37
Maritime officers and engineers trained annually38
Women in leading roles39
Women in technical and academic roles40
PAGE 12
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
Business-friendly framework
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Global connectivity and infrastructure
Benefit from Abu Dhabi’s worldclass academic and research institutions to develop future business leaders and specialists
Abu Dhabi is a home to worldclass international campuses
Local institutions
+ Multiples other institutions
+ Multiples other institutions
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Skilled talent and training
500+ 30%
Quality of life
Programmes41
Programmes with international accreditation42
Maritime-aligned education tracks via
PAGE 13
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Business-friendly framework
Global connectivity and infrastructure
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Quality of life
Skilled talent and training
Experience the comfort of home in one of the world’s safest cities, surrounded by vibrant green communities and year-round sunshine Parks
Playgrounds
Golf clubs
#1
$11.4B
Safest City Numbeo’s Safety Index 2025
Expansion of “Abu Dhabi Liveability Strategy” to deliver further projects that enhance the quality of life in Abu Dhabi44
8%
#5
Of federal budget allocated in 2025 to healthcare and preventative services43
Smartest City Index 2025 Recognised for Abu Dhabi’s abundant green spaces and excellent public transportation
Cycling tracks
Community centres
ranked 72+ Top international schools
Facts about education
Facts about healthcare
Beaches, marina living and waterfront lifestyle
45
and language17+ Country specific curriculum 46
best #1 World’s hospital 2025
47
200+ Accredited healthcare facilities 1
48
Doctor per 250 residents49
PAGE 14
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Business-friendly framework
Global connectivity and infrastructure
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Quality of life
Skilled talent and training
Create unforgettable experiences through a fast-growing calendar of iconic live performances #2
World’s most cultural city50
© Department of Culture & Tourism
Global superstars, world-class festivals, NBA, Formula 1 and UFC
© Department of Culture & Tourism
Maritime heritage festival and cultural programmes
#4
Best country for expats to live/work51
15
© Department of Culture & Tourism
Theme parks, water parks and water sports
© Department of Culture & Tourism
Wildlife reserves, mangroves, desert parks
Entertainment resorts52
17
Nature parks53
Learn more about experiences in Abu Dhabi
© Department of Culture & Tourism
Iconic cultural attractions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi
© Department of Culture & Tourism
Cultural District on Saadiyat Island home to Zayed National Museum and Natural History Museum
Learn more about events in Abu Dhabi
© Department of Culture & Tourism
Water sports festivals, sailing events, and coastal leisure experiences
© Department of Culture & Tourism
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque 82 white marble domes and gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers
PAGE 15
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Benefit from Abu Dhabi’s long-term stability and future-ready ecosystem as global conditions reshape investment and supply-chain decisions Proof backed by multinationals and world-class entertainment brands
$15.2B commitment to accelerate the UAE’s AI future54
Opened Abu Dhabi’s first fulfilment centre in partnership with Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO)55
Launched a Hub71-backed accelerator to scale AI startups56
Launched a $1B+ AI-native reinsurance platform57
Entertainment investments
Sphere Abu Dhabi
Disney Resort Abu Dhabi (Yas Island)
Construction commence for $1.7B immersive entertainment venue with 360° experiences
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi $1B landmark museum showcasing global and regional narratives from the 1960s to today
Bringing iconic stories to life in a uniquely Emirati setting © Department of Culture & Tourism
© Department of Culture & Tourism
Image Courtesy of Gehry Partners, LLP
PAGE 16
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Proof of Global Maritime Trust International maritime businesses of every scale are expanding their presence and activities in Abu Dhabi Entities with an active presence and operations in Abu Dhabi (non-exhaustive list)
Shipping
Ports and logistics
Advanced maritime services
Marine leisure Leading international cruise operators regularly include Abu Dhabi in their itineraries, such as
PAGE 17
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Leveraging Hub71’s tech ecosystem to accelerate international expansion from Hong Kong to Abu Dhabi
A tech startup restoring marine ecosystems to build climate resilience and adaptation
Meet Archireef
Supports startups to scale through access to capital, markets and strategic partnerships
How Hub71 helped?
Founded in Hong Kong 2020
Established presence in Abu Dhabi 2022 Free office space to establish a base in Abu Dhabi immediately
Now
Built a team of 20 experts, with 90% of global team based in Abu Dhabi
H O W T O S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y WITH US
Launched an eco-engineering facility in KEZAD, Abu Dhabi
Secured strategic partnerships with AD Ports Group, FAB, ADQ, and Modon
Expanded into international and regional markets including Singapore and Saudi Arabia
Market-entry cost support for the first year in Abu Dhabi
Scale faster with founder-friendly terms that protect long-term ownership
Since our establishment in Hong Kong, Abu Dhabi has been the ideal launchpad for our next chapter - where government-backed ambition meets real-world execution. With a clear ecosystem, fast support, and deep partnerships, it’s one of the best places globally to build and scale a mission-driven company.” — Vriko Yu, Co-founder and CEO at Archireef
PAGE 18
How to start your journey with us
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
H OW T O S TA R T YO U R JOURNEY WITH US
Understand institutional support before your move to Abu Dhabi Strategic market access and insights
Registration and licensing support
Network access
Real estate and infrastructure
Financing and banking
Arbitration and legal support
Question
Question
Question
Question
Question
Question
Is Abu Dhabi the right move for my business?
How lengthy is business registration and licensing?
How to build a network in a new location?
Where to set up my business in Abu Dhabi?
What financial support can I avail?
What legal frameworks exist?
Answer
Answer
Answer
Answer
Answer
Answer
Access data-driven insights on Abu Dhabi’s economy and key sectors to support your market entry and relocation decisions
Register your business in 15 minutes through “Basher”, the UAE’s federal e-government platform, and use Abu Dhabi’s “TAMM” local registration and licensing
Connect with the local maritime community through MHAD, and expand cross sector networks via Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce
Access turnkey solutions for offices, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities through KEZAD (Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi) and Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre
Access funding programmes through the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Hub71, and Central Bank of the UAE initiatives to accelerate your business growth
Operate with confidence under the globally recognised legal framework of ADGM Courts, based on English Common Law, and access ADGM Dispute Resolution Hearing Centre
Reach out to Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi (MHAD) for more information and guidance
PAGE 20
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
Transform your maritime operations with our smart digital solutions
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
Maritime Bundle
H OW T O S TA R T YO U R JOURNEY WITH US
Integrated digital solutions unifying maritime transport procedures into a single platform, simplifying operations for vessels in UAE waters
Mobile application providing real-time access to maritime safety maps to support safe, efficient navigation across local waterways
Find out more
Find out more
App is available for download through Google Play and the Apple App Store
ESG Handbook
Practical guide supporting maritime stakeholders to understand, assess and improve Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance
Find out more
Digital self-assessment tool that benchmarks ESG performance and accelerates maritime sustainability through tailored recommendations
Find out more
Digital single window that centralises trade, logistics, and customs processes in Abu Dhabi for greater efficiency and transparency
Find out more
PAGE 21
MARITIME IN ABU DHABI
GLOBAL LEADERS WHO CHOOSE ABU DHABI
WHY INVEST IN ABU DHABI?
H OW T O S TA R T YO U R JOURNEY WITH US
Arrange a personal meeting or video call with our team For more information, visit: admobility.gov.ae Abu Dhabi Mobility
Provide seamless business setup and account opening
Support you through key regulatory and administrative processes
Facilitate links between the maritime sector and government
admaritime.ae Abu Dhabi Maritime
maritimehub-ad.com Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi
PAGE 22
Join us Where the next chapter takes shape Authors of the guidebook Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility)
Abu Dhabi Maritime
Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi (MHAD)
As a government authority, we plan, regulate, and enable Abu Dhabi’s integrated transport ecosystem across land, air, and sea. Through strategic initiatives, we supports the Emirate’s vision to become a leading global maritime hub by enhancing marine transport infrastructure, improving waterway connectivity, and integrating maritime mobility into the wider transport network.
As the custodian of Abu Dhabi’s waterways, we work in close partnership with government entities, industry stakeholders, and the wider maritime community to deliver a resilient, world-class operating environment that enables maritime businesses to operate, invest, expand, and thrive in one of the world’s most strategically positioned maritime hubs.
Uniting government and private stakeholders through a robust network, dedicated working groups, and collaborative initiatives, we drive sustainable growth across our emirate’s maritime sector. A platform for connection, creation, and collaboration, we are strengthening the maritime community, unlocking opportunities, and positioning Abu Dhabi as a leading global maritime centre.
Keep in touch with us.
Keep in touch with us.
Keep in touch with us.
admobility.gov.ae
admaritime.ae
maritimehub-ad.com ContactUs@maritimehub-ad.com
PAGE 23
Disclaimer Scope and Reliance This independent peer review has been undertaken by the authors in an advisory capacity only. The review includes information, data and documentation prepared by third parties that has not been independently verified, audited or validated for completeness, accuracy or correctness of the underlying data, calculations or cited source information (excluding any major or fundamental data and information that may affect the result of this Guidebook).
Nature of Opinion The comments and observations expressed in the review represent the authors’ professional opinions, formed on the basis of public information available prior to publication. The review aims to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a globally competitive, investor-ready maritime hub.
Limitations of Use This independent peer review does not constitute assurance, certification, verification, audit, or expert determination. The review should not be relied upon for financial or investment decisions, claims, disputes, arbitration, litigation, or as the sole basis for commercial or contractual decisions, without further independent analysis, advice and guidance.
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15.
“#4 World’s best country for expats to live/work”, This is Abu Dhabi, The Gateway to Investments Report, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Assessed in 2026.
2.
“74% Increase in ship ownership from 2022 to 2024”, The Leading Maritime Cities of the World in 2024. Accessed in 2024. https://www.dnv.com/maritime/publications/ the-leading-maritime-cities-in-the-world-in-2024
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“#1 AI Data Centre infrastructure, outside USA”, The World’s Top AI Superpowers in 2025. Accessed in 2025. https://www.trgdatacenters.com/resource/the-worlds-topai-superpowers-in-2025
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“#11 Most attractive choice for relocating shipping operations”, The Leading Maritime Cities of the World in 2024. Accessed in 2024. https://www.dnv.com/maritime/ publications/the-leading-maritime-cities-in-the-world-in-2024
17.
“#9 Globally for talent ranking”, IMD World Talent Ranking 2025. Accessed in 2025. World Talent Ranking 2025 - IMD business school for management and leadership courses
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“+35% Increase in TEU volume from 2022 to 2024”, The Leading Maritime Cities of the World in 2024. Accessed in 2024. https://www.dnv.com/maritime/publications/ the-leading-maritime-cities-in-the-world-in-2024
18.
“200+ Nationalities”, This is Abu Dhabi, The Gateway to Investments Report, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Accessed in 2026.
5.
“#3 Container Port Operations Efficiency Globally, 2023”. Accessed in 2023. Khalifa Port | 3rd Most Efficient Container Port | AD Ports Group
19.
$3B Startup investment funding in 2026, Hub71. Accessed in 2026. Home | Hub71
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6.
“#10 Location for Maritime IPO & Bond Market Values”, The Leading Maritime Cities of the World in 2024. Accessed in 2024. https://www.dnv.com/maritime/publications/ the-leading-maritime-cities-in-the-world-in-2024
“Codes of Practice aligned with global standards”, Abu Dhabi Maritime Annual Report 2025. Accessed in 2026. AD-Maritime_Annual-Report-2025.pdf
21.
“1700+ maritime companies”, Abu Dhabi’s maritime sector performance based on GDP contribution study. Accessed in 2025.
7.
“Top 15 Choice as world’s leading centres of maritime finance”, The Leading Maritime Cities of the World in 2024. Accessed in 2024. https://www.dnv.com/maritime/ publications/the-leading-maritime-cities-in-the-world-in-2024
22.
“100+ Freelancer License categories”, Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA). Assessed in 2026. Freelancer Licence | ADRA
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8.
“#9 Most attractive choice for relocating R&D”, The Leading Maritime Cities of the World in 2024. Accessed in 2024. https://www.dnv.com/maritime/publications/theleading-maritime-cities-in-the-world-in-2024
“Abu Dhabi GDP growth and diversification”, Abu Dhabi’s maritime sector performance based on GDP contribution study. Accessed in 2025.
24.
“$8.1B GDP contribution from maritime sector in 2023”, Abu Dhabi’s maritime sector performance based on GDP contribution study. Accessed in 2025.
25.
“AD Ports Group among global top 20 container port operators in new industry ranking”, 2024/2025 Ranking of Top 20 Global Container Port Operators by Drewry International. Accessed in 2025. AD Ports Group among global top 20 container port operators in new industry ranking | Emirates News Agency
26.
“#1 AI data center infrastructure outside USA”, Cushman & Wakefield Global Data Center Market Comparison 2025. Accessed in 2026. 2025 Global Data Center Market Comparison
9.
“#10 Most attractive choice for digital transformation”, The Leading Maritime Cities of the World in 2024. Accessed in 2024. https://www.dnv.com/maritime/publications/ the-leading-maritime-cities-in-the-world-in-2024
10.
“#1 World’s best cruise terminal Zayed Port, Abu Dhabi, 2023”, Abu Dhabi Ports Group website. Accessed in 2023. https://www.adports.ae/ports-terminals/cruiseterminals/abu-dhabi-cruise-terminal/
11.
“230+ Islands for leisure & tourism”, Abu Dhabi Maritime Annual Report 2025. Accessed in 2025. AD-Maritime_Annual-Report-2025.pdf
27.
12.
“45,000 km² of water body”, Abu Dhabi Maritime Annual Report 2025. Accessed in 2025. AD-Maritime_Annual-Report-2025.pdf
“UAE AI market to reach $46.33 billion by 2030”. Accessed in 2025. Report: UAE AI market to reach $46.33 billion by 2030
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“#2 World’s leading destination for foreign investment”, The Brand Finance Global City Index 2025. Accessed in 2025. https://brandfinance.com/press-releases/dubaihas-best-reputation-among-worlds-top-100-cities -
“UAE #5 in digital infrastructure, smart technology adoption”, IMD Smart City Index 2025. Accessed in 2025. World Talent Ranking 2025 - IMD business school for management and leadership courses
29.
14.
“#2 World’s most cultural city”, This is Abu Dhabi, The Gateway to Investments Report, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Assessed in 2026.
“UAE has 99% Internet penetration rate, one of the highest in the world“, ICT Development Index 2024”. Assessed in 2024. The ICT Development Index 2024
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“UAE is #1 Globally in labour market efficiency”, Labour Market Observatory, UAE. Accessed in 2025. UAE ranked first globally in key labour market indicators
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31.
“UAE is #9 Globally for talents readiness and skills availability”, IMD World Talent Ranking 2025. Accessed in 2025. World Talent Ranking 2025 - IMD business school for management and leadership courses
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“17+ Country & language-specific curriculum”, This is Abu Dhabi, The Gateway to Investments Report, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Accessed in 2026.
32.
“‘#10 Most attractive choice for headquarters relocation”, The Leading Maritime Cities of the World in 2024. Accessed 2024. https://www.dnv.com/maritime/ publications/the-leading-maritime-cities-in-the-world-in-2024
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“#1 World’s Best Hospital 2025”, This is Abu Dhabi, The Gateway to Investments Report, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Accessed in 2026.
48.
“200+ Accredited healthcare facilities”, This is Abu Dhabi, The Gateway to Investments Report, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Accessed in 2026.
49.
“1 Doctor per 250 residents”, This is Abu Dhabi, The Gateway to Investments Report, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Accessed in 2026.
50.
“Abu Dhabi #2 World’s most cultural city”, This is Abu Dhabi, The Gateway to Investments Report, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Accessed in 2026.
33.
“2.7M Workforce in Abu Dhabi”, Labour Market Observatory, UAE. Accessed in 2025.
34.
200+ Nationalities living in Abu Dhabi, This is Abu Dhabi, The Gateway to Investments Report, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Accessed in 2026.
35.
“13% Workforce growth, 2025”, Labour Market Observatory, UAE. Accessed in 2025.
36.
“6.3% Skilled labour growth, 2025”, Labour Market Observatory, UAE. Accessed in 2025.
51.
“# 4 Best country for expats to live/work”, This is Abu Dhabi, The Gateway to Investments Report, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Accessed in 2026.
37.
“54% Youth workforce in the labour market”, Labour Market Observatory, UAE. Accessed in 2025.
52.
“15 Entertainment Resorts”, Experience Abu Dhabi Brochure, The cruise sector in Abu Dhabi, Department of Culture & Tourism of Abu Dhabi. Accessed in 2026.
38.
“500 Maritime officers & engineers trained annually”, Labour Market Observatory, UAE. Accessed in 2025.
53.
“17 Nature Parks”, Experience Abu Dhabi Brochure, The cruise sector in Abu Dhabi, Department of Culture & Tourism of Abu Dhabi. Accessed in 2026.
39.
“30% Women in leading roles”, Labour Market Observatory, UAE. Accessed in 2025.
54.
40.
“15% Women in technical and academic roles”, Labour Market Observatory, UAE. Accessed in 2025.
“$15.2B commitment to accelerate the UAE’s AI future”, Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed reviews Microsoft’s plans to invest $15.2 billion to accelerate AI innovation, drive digital growth in UAE. Accessed in 2025. https://www.wam.ae/en/article/bmj5av5khaled-bin-mohamed-bin-zayed-reviews-Microsoft.
41.
“500+ Programmes”, This is Abu Dhabi, The Gateway to Investments Report, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Accessed in 2026.
55.
42.
“30% Programmes with international accreditation”, This is Abu Dhabi, The Gateway to Investments Report, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Accessed in 2026.
“Opened Abu Dhabi’s 1st fulfilment centre in partnership with ADIO”, Abu Dhabi Media Office. Accessed in 2025. https://www.mediaoffice.abudhabi/en/economy/in-strategicpartnership-with-abu-dhabi-investment-office-amazon-opens-1st-fulfilment-centre-inemirate
43.
“Expansion of Abu Dhabi Liveability Strategy to deliver further projects that enhance the quality of life in Abu Dhabi”, Sheikh Khaled approves $11.4 billion expansion of Abu Dhabi’s Liveability Strategy. Accessed in 2025. https://www.mediaoffice. abudhabi/en/government-affairs/khaled-bin-mohamed-bin-zayed-chairs-abu-dhabiexecutive-council-meeting-2025
56.
“Launched a Hub71 backed accelerator to scale AI startups”, Emirates News Agency – WAM. Accessed in 2025. https://www.wam.ae/en/article/bjoqqqi-google-for-startupsaccelerator-welcomes-hub71.
57.
“Launched a $1B+ AI-native reinsurance platform”. Abu Dhabi’s IHC, BlackRock set up $1bln reinsurance company in ADGM, Zawya. Accessed in 2025. https://www. zawya.com/en/business/banking-and-insurance/abu-dhabis-ihc-blackrock-set-up-1blnreinsurance-company-in-adgm-kdsh91x7
44.
“8% of federal budget allocated in 2025 to healthcare and preventative services”, The Federal Budget 2025. Accessed in 2025. https://mof.gov.ae/en/public-finance/uaefederal-budget/uae-federal-budget-2025