Forthright Commercial Investment
Regulatory Navigation and Partnership and Funding Sourcing
Navigating the regulatory landscape and securing strategic partnerships are critical steps for businesses looking to establish and expand their operations in Abu Dhabi. Forthright Commercial Investment offers comprehensive regulatory navigation services to ensure compliance and smooth operations, alongside connecting clients with the right local partners and funding opportunities. We focus on sectors prioritized by the Abu Dhabi government, leveraging the emirate's robust infrastructure and favorable conditions to help businesses thrive.
Abu Dhabi Priority Sectors:
Abu Dhabi's economic strategy focuses on diversifying its economy and fostering growth across several key sectors. These priority sectors are aligned with the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, aiming to reduce dependence on oil revenues and create a sustainable, knowledge-based economy. Here is an overview of these sectors:
Manufacturing
Over the past 15 years, Abu Dhabi has invested over AED 51 billion ($13.8 billion) to build a robust industrial infrastructure. This sector benefits from consistent government commitment aligned with the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, offering businesses innovative facilities and advanced manufacturing techniques. An established manufacturing ecosystem, favorable business conditions, and strong government support have led key industrial players to set up operations in Abu Dhabi.
Tourism
Abu Dhabi's tourism sector, supporting over 300,000 jobs and attracting more than 11 million annual visitors, enjoys significant investments totaling $7 billion per year. The sector is projected to grow by over 5% annually over the next decade, driven by the emirate's commitment to evolving into a world-class destination. This growth is fueled by the conservation and promotion of Abu Dhabi's natural landscapes, heritage, culture, and leisure assets.
AgTech
With year-round sunshine and ample land, Abu Dhabi is an attractive destination for agriculture companies focused on desert and arid climates. The emirate is home to 24,000+ farms and 200+ food processors, and it is building the world's largest R&D indoor vertical farm. AgTech companies benefit from Abu Dhabi's ambitious innovation programs, which support cutting-edge R&D projects to tackle global food security challenges.
Financial Services
Abu Dhabi is the region's leading financial hub, offering access to global markets and talent, supported by a robust regulatory framework. The sector includes notable organizations such as the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). The emirate's financial services sector is a significant contributor to the UAE's GDP and is home to 120+ financial service providers.
Logistics
Abu Dhabi offers unmatched connectivity at the heart of global trade and transportation. The soon-to-open Abu Dhabi International Airport Midfield Terminal and extensive improvements to ground infrastructure, including light rail, metro, ferries, railroad, and a high-speed hyperloop system, position the emirate as a logistics powerhouse.
Education
Supported by consistent government investment and public-private partnerships, Abu Dhabi offers world-class education facilities from early stages to graduate school. The emirate is home to 16+ universities and numerous academic research institutions, fostering the next generation of innovators and leaders.
Healthcare & Biopharma
Abu Dhabi's healthcare sector is marked by significant government investment, advanced medical care, and research facilities. The emirate has established partnerships with global leaders in healthcare to bring advanced technologies and world-class standards to its community. The sector offers robust growth potential and significant investment opportunities.
Energy
As one of the world's largest energy producers, Abu Dhabi is committed to transitioning to sustainable energy solutions. The emirate is home to Noor Abu Dhabi, the world's largest single-site solar plant, and the Barakah nuclear power plant. Continued investments in renewable energy and carbon capture technologies highlight Abu Dhabi's long-term commitment to energy innovation.
ICT
Abu Dhabi boasts advanced technology and telecommunications infrastructure, with one of the highest mobile telephone penetration rates globally. The emirate is the first capital city to achieve 100% fiber-to-home broadband connectivity and is considered the smartest city in the MENA region. Supported by entities like the Abu Dhabi Digital Authority (ADDA), Abu Dhabi offers a thriving environment for ICT investment.