UAE stock markets wrapped up 2024 with impressive gains, posting AED257 billion in market capitalisation growth as the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) and the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) both advanced on the back of a strong economy, rising foreign investment, and a busy IPO calendar.
Market Capitalization Reaches AED3.905 Trillion
The combined market cap of the UAE's two main exchanges climbed to AED3.905 trillion by December 31, 2024, up from AED3.648 trillion at the close of 2023.
The ADX ended the year at AED2.998 trillion, a modest but steady rise from AED2.961 trillion in 2023. The DFM posted sharper growth, with its market capitalisation surging from AED687.5 billion to AED906.912 billion — a gain of more than AED219 billion.
Trading Activity Exceeds AED449 Billion
Trading activity remained robust throughout 2024, with the total value of transactions across both exchanges surpassing AED449 billion for the year.
The ADX led in trading value, accounting for AED342.4 billion, while the DFM contributed AED106.7 billion. In terms of volume, more than 142 billion shares changed hands across the two markets — 90.16 billion on the ADX and 51.85 billion on the DFM.
Indices and Investor Activity
The FTSE ADX General Index closed the year at 9,414.460 points, while the DFM General Index ended at 5,158.670 points.
Both exchanges recorded strong investor participation, with total trading transactions surpassing 7.2 million across the two platforms — 4.655 million on the ADX and 2.55 million on the DFM.
UAE Cements Its Position as a MENA Investment Hub
The AED257 billion increase in combined market capitalisation underscores the UAE's standing as the leading equity market destination in the MENA region and a competitive draw for global investors.
The performance reflects sustained confidence in the UAE economy and its ability to attract capital and sustain growth in a competitive global environment.
As the UAE enters 2025, both stock markets carry strong momentum from 2024, reinforcing their role as key pillars of the country's broader economic ambitions.
