ADGM Academy partners with PGIM to advance sustainable technology

ADGM Academy (ADGMA) has partnered with PGIM, the global investment management business of Prudential Financial, to launch the RealAssetX Abu Dhabi Innovation Centre - a cutting-edge lab dedicated to advancing sustainable technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and deep tech within the real asset industry.

Set to open in September this year at the ADGM Academy offices, the centre will bring together global expertise to tackle the most pressing challenges and opportunities in real estate, infrastructure, smart cities, and related sectors.

The announcement follows the strategic partnership formed between PGIM and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) announced in December last year to support the establishment of the centre.

The RealAssetX Abu Dhabi Innovation Centre will focus on three key areas: climate technologies, advancing decarbonisation and environmental resilience; AI-driven decision-making, enhancing asset management and investment strategies through advanced analytics; and breakthrough applications, exploring blockchain for real estate, smart infrastructure systems and advanced materials.

PGIM and ADGMA will jointly guide and oversee the centre’s strategy and operations, as it delivers research, ideation labs, hackathons, pitch competitions, and incubator and accelerator programmes.

Alessandro Borgogna, Advisor - Cluster Planning and Development at ADIO, said, “Abu Dhabi is driving the next stage of innovation by integrating AI, sustainability, and digital transformation across global industries. RealAssetX Abu Dhabi demonstrates our commitment to strengthening the financial services sector and positioning the emirate as a launchpad for deep tech solutions that deliver value at scale.”

Mansoor Jaffar, CEO at ADGM Academy and Research Centre, said, “We are committed to building a vibrant ecosystem that nurtures early-stage ventures and accelerates breakthrough technologies in real assets. Our partnership with PGIM, supported by ADIO, will enable the RealAssetX Centre to drive innovation, support sustainable development, and position Abu Dhabi as a global hub for deep tech and smart infrastructure.”

Mohammed Abdulmalek, Head of the Middle East at PGIM, commented, “By combining PGIM’s global investment expertise with ADGMA’s commitment to talent and technology, we are creating a platform that will drive sustainable growth, unlock new value, and position the region at the forefront of deep tech and AI-driven transformation.”

Meanwhile in September, 2024, PGIM, the global investment management business of Prudential Financial, has received Financial Services Permission (FSP) to operate in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and has opened a new office in Abu Dhabi, located in the city’s financial district.

Establishing its local entity marks PGIM’s formal entry into the Middle East market, underscoring its commitment to serving institutional and professional clients in the region.

PGIM is dedicated to providing innovative investment strategies and comprehensive client advisory services to regional investors, helping them navigate market complexities and achieve their financial goals.

Arvind Ramamurthy, Chief of Market Development at ADGM, said, “We are proud to welcome PGIM, one of the largest asset management companies in the world, to one of the largest financial districts in the world — ADGM. PGIM’s expansion into Abu Dhabi marks an important milestone in leveraging its unparalleled expertise and comprehensive range of services alongside ADGM’s robust ecosystem to unlock a wealth of investment opportunities in the region. Their role in driving growth and innovation in the region will strengthen ADGM’s position as a global financial powerhouse.”

Mohammed Abdulmalek, Head of the Middle East for PGIM and Chairman of the newly established local entity, commented, “PGIM is well-equipped to offer bespoke investment solutions that align with the region’s economic growth and transformation.”

“Abu Dhabi remains a key market for us, and the establishment of our new legal entity in ADGM emphasises our ongoing dedication to our presence in the UAE and our commitment to the Middle East. I look forward to leading PGIM’s efforts in delivering value to our clients and contributing to the financial landscape of the UAE.”

ADGM, the international financial centre of the UAE capital, announced the appointment of Rashed Abdulkarim Al Balooshi as Chief Executive Officer of ADGM’s Registration Authority (RA), effective immediately. The appointment reflects ADGM’s ongoing commitment to bolstering its leadership team and accelerating the execution of its strategic mandate, in alignment with Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic vision.

WAM