ADGM Academy (ADGMA) has partnered with PGIM, the global investment management arm of Prudential Financial, Inc., to launch the RealAssetX Abu Dhabi Innovation Center — a cutting-edge facility dedicated to innovation in sustainable technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and deep tech across the real asset sector.
Slated to open in September 2025 at ADGM Academy’s headquarters, the center will function as a global innovation hub, fostering research and collaboration to address major challenges and unlock growth in real estate, infrastructure, smart cities, and related industries.
Backed by PGIM–ADIO Collaboration
This initiative stems from a strategic alliance between PGIM and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), originally announced in December 2024, laying the groundwork for RealAssetX’s establishment in the UAE capital.
Core Innovation Themes
The RealAssetX Center will focus on three primary areas:
- Climate Technologies – Promoting decarbonization and environmental resilience in real asset development.
- AI-Driven Insights – Leveraging AI and data analytics to optimize investment and asset management strategies.
- Emerging Tech Applications – Exploring advanced tools such as blockchain, smart infrastructure, and next-gen building materials.
PGIM and ADGMA will co-manage both the strategic direction and daily operations of the center.
A Platform for Deep Tech Acceleration
The center will host a wide range of innovation-focused programs, including:
- Research initiatives
- Ideation workshops
- Hackathons
- Startup pitch competitions
- Accelerator and incubator programs for early-stage ventures
Executive Perspectives
Alessandro Borgogna, Advisor for Cluster Planning and Development at ADIO, noted:
“Abu Dhabi is taking bold steps in integrating AI, sustainability, and digital transformation across industries. The RealAssetX center reflects our vision to establish the emirate as a global hub for high-impact tech innovation in financial services and real assets.”
Mansoor Jaffar, CEO of ADGM Academy, added:
“This partnership with PGIM, supported by ADIO, will help foster a thriving ecosystem for breakthrough technologies and emerging businesses in real assets—positioning Abu Dhabi at the forefront of global smart infrastructure innovation.”
Mohammed Abdulmalek, Head of the Middle East at PGIM, emphasized:
“Combining PGIM’s global investment knowledge with ADGMA’s talent and innovation focus creates a powerful platform for sustainable growth and technological advancement in the region.”
The launch of the RealAssetX Abu Dhabi Innovation Center marks a major milestone in strengthening the emirate’s position as a global leader in real estate technology, sustainability, and financial innovation.
