ADFD 2024 Report Highlights UAE’s Global Development Impact

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Photo: Abu Dhabi Media Office 

The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has released its 2024 Annual Report, sharing its important work and achievements that support the UAE’s plans for helping countries worldwide. The report shows how ADFD helps communities grow and improve lives through various projects.

ADFD’s work supports big UAE goals, like the UAE Export Development Policy, the UAE Centennial 2071, and Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. These goals focus on making the UAE’s industries stronger and more competitive worldwide. A special part of ADFD, called the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), is leading these efforts.

By the end of 2024, ADFD had provided a total of AED216.5 billion to help 107 countries in different continents. This money came in different forms: AED157 billion in low-interest loans, AED57.6 billion as government grants, and AED1.9 billion in direct contributions. These funds helped important projects in areas like renewable energy, housing, transportation, education, technology, and water security. These projects help countries grow their economies and improve people’s lives.

ADFD also focuses on supporting the UAE’s economy and helping Emirati companies grow and reach new markets. In 2024, ADEX gave AED4 billion to support UAE exports, helping them reach over 40 countries. The Fund also gave AED6 billion to support 19 Emirati companies working on important projects in eight different countries.

ADFD’s investments have grown too, reaching AED12.2 billion across 22 countries. The Fund invests in 17 companies in many industries, helping these companies grow, create jobs, and boost local economies.

His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE and Chairman of ADFD’s Board, said that the Fund was created in 1971 based on the values of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He explained that ADFD has become an important institution that spreads the UAE’s values and helps many countries with sustainable development. The Fund continues this legacy under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE.

Sheikh Mansour also said that ADFD supports the UAE’s foreign aid policy, which focuses on development and helping countries become stable economically and socially. The Fund works with international organizations to create lasting positive impacts worldwide.

He added that the Fund is always working to grow its activities and find new, sustainable solutions for partner countries. It also helps the UAE’s economy by giving Emirati companies tools to grow and find new markets.

His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, said ADFD is reaching new milestones. It uses smart financing to fund projects that make a lasting difference. The Fund supports developing countries in their goals, helping them build stronger economies and infrastructure.

In 2024, the Fund worked hard to help countries facing economic and social problems. It funded projects in key areas like energy, water, infrastructure, education, technology, and food security. These projects support the global Sustainable Development Goals and improve people’s lives.

He also pointed out that besides helping countries globally, the Fund supports the UAE economy by boosting exports and helping local companies compete in the world market. This support helps the UAE’s economy become more diverse and benefits society.

The Director General of ADFD, His Excellency Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, said the Fund’s achievements show the UAE’s strong commitment to sustainable development. This vision started with the country’s founder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He said that the Fund has become a key partner for development in many countries and helps build a better future.

He also praised the support from the UAE’s leadership, especially His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for guiding ADFD in its important work worldwide.

In 2024, ADFD was honored with the United Nations Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Partnerships Award for its renewable energy projects in the Pacific and Caribbean islands. This was the first time this award was given to a group from the Middle East and North Africa.

ADFD also introduced a new logo and slogan, “Shaping the Future Together,” showing its commitment to the UAE’s plan for the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

After many years of success, ADFD continues to work hard on development projects worldwide. Its strategy follows the UAE leadership’s vision to make the Fund a globally known institution that supports development and the UAE economy. The Fund focuses on projects that create lasting benefits for people around the world.