Awqaf Abu Dhabi has established Awqaf Capital, a strategic initiative that marks a significant milestone in Abu Dhabi's financial landscape and reinforces the emirate's position as The Capital of Capital.
The announcement was made by His Excellency Fahad Abdul Qader Al Qassim, Director General of the Endowments and Minors Funds Authority (Awqaf Abu Dhabi), during his address at the third edition of Abu Dhabi Finance Week, organised under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
His Excellency Al Qassim said: "Today's launch of Awqaf Capital represents our commitment to innovation in financial markets and our dedication to strengthening Abu Dhabi's position as a capital for capital and investments. This strategic initiative not only strengthens our position in the global capital markets but also introduces an innovative approach to institutional investment that combines financial excellence with sustainable impact."
Awqaf Capital will serve as a cornerstone institution in Abu Dhabi's financial ecosystem, deploying capital across diverse asset classes while leveraging Abu Dhabi's position as a bridge between global markets.
Drawing from global examples, His Excellency Al Qassim illustrated how leading educational institutions have leveraged endowments to achieve remarkable financial success. His Excellency Al Qassim said that university endowments in the US exceeded US$691 billion in fiscal year 2021, with Harvard University's endowment reaching US$53 billion and generating approximately US$2 billion annually.
His Excellency Al Qassim said: “These funds are not just financial safety nets; they are engines of growth that continuously fund research, infrastructure, and community development.
“Throughout history, endowments have been one of the most flexible financial systems that both the public and private sectors have – and should - focus on, particularly in the health and education sectors.”
His Excellency Al Qassim said that the global impact investing market surpassed US$1 trillion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a double-digit compound annual rate until 2030, with endowments playing a crucial role in this expansion. Awqaf Capital is strategically positioned to capture this growth while reinforcing Abu Dhabi's status as the Capital of Capital.
His Excellency Al Qassim said: "Through Awqaf Capital, we're creating new pathways for capital deployment that benefit both investors and the broader economy. Our investment approach reflects the dynamism of Abu Dhabi's economy – agile, forward-looking, and built for sustained success."
The investment strategy of Awqaf Capital is founded on strategic market integration across diverse asset classes, innovation in capital deployment aligned with market demands, sustainable value creation through global best practices, and a sharp focus on sectors driving the future economy. This comprehensive approach ensures resilient portfolios that can weather market cycles while delivering consistent returns.
His Excellency Al Qassim said that investing in Awqaf Abu Dhabi’s endowments not only ensures robust financial returns but also contributes to creating societal impact.
His Excellency Al Qassim said: “For businesses, this means partnering with projects that promote economic growth and social impact, while also benefiting from the stable, long-term returns that endowments consistently provide.”
Established in 2023 under the visionary leadership of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Awqaf Abu Dhabi aims to transform endowment and wealth management into a catalyst for social well-being, economic prosperity, and environmental sustainability.
His Excellency Al Qassim said: “Our leadership and government bodies are fully committed to improving the well-being and quality of life for all members of society At Awqaf Abu Dhabi, we are committed to the same vision – to serve as a partner in the progress of our nation and to promote the wellbeing of all members of the community.
"We invite investors and partners to join us in this journey. Together, we can create investment opportunities that deliver both financial returns and lasting economic impact, while contributing to Abu Dhabi's legacy as The Capital of Capital."
With an extensive portfolio of assets under management, including a robust portfolio of income generating assets, Awqaf Abu Dhabi follow the highest standards in endowment management practices and also develops programmes aimed at empowering the beneficiaries of the endowment through educational scholarships, healthcare services, and social welfare initiatives, among others.
For more information about the initiative, visit Awqaf Abu Dhabi's official website www.adawqaf.gov.ae
