The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) opened a new office in Abu Dhabi to strengthen Gulf investment flows into Central Asia. The initiative attracts capital from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries for regional infrastructure and development projects.
The Abu Dhabi office operates within Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the UAE’s international financial centre. ADGM Authority CEO Salem Al Darei and EDB Chairman Nikolai Podguzov attended the opening ceremony. The office allows EDB to coordinate directly with regulators, sovereign wealth funds, and institutional investors in the Gulf, boosting investment efficiency.
Central to the new platform, EDB launched a specialized infrastructure credit fund registered under ADGM jurisdiction. The fund finances EDB-backed infrastructure projects across Central Asia. It provides Middle Eastern and international investors with structured, regulated investment opportunities.
EDB strengthened engagement with Gulf markets throughout 2025. Earlier this year, the bank placed two dirham-denominated bond issues: a $50 million equivalent on the Astana International Exchange in April and a $54 million equivalent in the UAE in June. First Abu Dhabi Bank and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development supported the UAE placement.
Analysts highlight that Gulf investment flows into Central Asia have strengthened because EDB aligns with regulations and offers structured financial instruments. These measures deliver safer and more predictable returns while promoting regional development.
Additionally, EDB coordinates with the Islamic Development Bank and the London Stock Exchange on growth forecasts. The institutions project Islamic banking assets in the region to reach $6.3 billion by 2033, with sukuk issuance expected to rise to $5.6 billion. This development further increases the appeal of Gulf investment flows.
EDB intends for the Abu Dhabi office to serve as a long-term hub for investment management and collaboration. The bank also seeks to foster stronger partnerships between Central Asia and Gulf economies through sustainable infrastructure projects.
Furthermore, the office helps investors navigate approvals and monitor projects efficiently. It provides transparency, regulatory guidance, and expert project assessments, ensuring successful and timely project delivery.
Looking ahead, EDB will expand its investment platform to include additional financing instruments. These steps will broaden the pool of GCC investors in Central Asia’s economic growth and reinforce Gulf investment flows to support long-term regional prosperity.
