Post by : Mara Rahim
On December 9th, the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), in collaboration with both the Embassy of Kazakhstan in the UAE and the UAE Embassy in Kazakhstan, hosted the event titled "AIFC Connect: Abu Dhabi 2025" in Abu Dhabi. This gathering aimed to enhance investment collaboration, showcase Kazakhstan's promising projects, and present opportunities in the nation’s financial landscape to international firms.
The UAE ranks among the leading ten investors in Kazakhstan, with a total investment surpassing US$4.3 billion. Approximately 462 UAE companies have established presence in Kazakhstan, including Masdar, Presight, Abu Dhabi Ports Group, and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank. This event, partnered with GWM Capital Ltd. and ITS, coincided with the ongoing Abu Dhabi Finance Week.
Around 150 delegates from investment banks, consulting firms, technology, stock exchanges, regulators, and asset management attended the event. Key discussions revolved around investment sectors, infrastructure initiatives, fintech advancements, digital innovations, and the AIFC’s role in bridging Gulf and Central Asian capital markets.
Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Rauan Zhumabek, referred to both nations as “bridge countries” that connect regions and foster business prospects. He highlighted that the UAE's investments in Kazakhstan exceeded US$1 billion this year, reflecting a strong trust from investors. AIFC Governor Renat Bekturov reiterated the importance of the AIFC in facilitating international agreements, advancing infrastructure projects, and market integration.
The business agenda included panels discussing investment opportunities from sovereign and institutional funds in sectors such as energy, transport, aviation, logistics, and mining. Notable speakers consisted of representatives from Masdar, Baiterek National Investment Holding, KazMunayGas, and Siguler Guff. Experts emphasized Kazakhstan’s strategic positioning between Europe and Asia, along with the increasing prospects for international capital.
Discussions also encompassed fintech and digital assets, including tokenised securities, regulatory frameworks, and custodial services. The AIFC has embraced international IOSCO standards, setting a benchmark in global digital asset regulation. Participants featured AFSA, Binance, and industry experts advocating for secure and interconnected digital finance ecosystems.
The event highlighted successful partnerships between the UAE and Kazakhstan, showcasing projects like Caspian Integrated Maritime Solutions and dirham-denominated bonds via AIX and Nasdaq Dubai. Since its establishment in 2018, the AIFC has attracted US$19.3 billion in investments, hosting over 4,800 companies from more than 90 countries within its jurisdiction.
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