Deutsche Bank has secured a financial services permission from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority at Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), marking a significant step in its expansion strategy within the UAE. The newly granted licence authorises the bank to carry out regulated activities such as arranging deals in investments, offering credit, and providing advisory services related to investments or credit under the Financial Services and Markets Regulations 2015.
This move not only expands the bank’s regional footprint but also reinforces its commitment to aligning closely with clients across the Middle East. It supports Deutsche Bank’s global Hausbank strategy, which aims to act as a long-term financial partner by delivering integrated, client-centric solutions across sectors and geographies.
Strategic Leadership and Business Growth
To support operations at its ADGM branch, Deutsche Bank has appointed Jean-Pierre Habis as a Senior Manager. He will oversee regulated business activities and ensure the provision of customised financial solutions that address the evolving priorities of regional clients.
Jamal Al Kishi, CEO for Middle East and Africa at Deutsche Bank, emphasised the importance of the development.
“Receiving this licence is an important step in our strategy to better meet the evolving needs of our clients in the UAE and across the region. It improves our ability to deliver on our Hausbank promise—to serve as a trusted partner to clients wherever they operate.”
A Gateway for Global Capital and Regional Growth
The new licence will enable Deutsche Bank to play a more active role in the UAE’s economic transformation. It aligns with national strategies such as “We the UAE 2031” and the “Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030,” both of which aim to diversify and grow the national economy through global partnerships and financial innovation.
Esra Turk, Head of CEEMEA Institutional Client Group and Chair of Investment Bank MEA, added:
“ADGM is fast becoming a hub for international finance in the region. Our expanded presence here reflects the growing importance of Abu Dhabi in our global network and reinforces our commitment to providing clients with closer access to expertise and solutions while increasing the intensity of our coverage.”
Building on Decades of Regional Presence
Deutsche Bank has operated in the UAE for over 25 years. It first launched a representative office in Abu Dhabi in 1999 and has since grown to include four legal entities in the country. The ADGM entity also marks the latest milestone in the bank’s regional journey, enhancing its capabilities across investment banking, corporate banking, and wealth management.
By combining world-class global expertise with deep local insight, Deutsche Bank aims to connect global capital with regional opportunities—supporting clients while actively contributing to the UAE’s long-term economic vision.
