March 6, 2026
Abu Dhabi, UAE – H.E. Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates, reaffirmed that the UAE’s banking and financial sector continues to demonstrate exceptional resilience and stability. He highlighted that banks, financial institutions, and insurance companies across the country are operating smoothly, providing services efficiently and without disruption nationwide.
A Legacy of Trust and Stability Spanning Over 53 Years
For more than five decades, the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates has built a strong legacy of achievements, guided by the strategic vision of the UAE’s leadership. Throughout this period, the Bank has played a critical role in safeguarding the resilience, stability, and strength of the nation’s financial system.
Despite various geopolitical developments in the region, the UAE’s banking and financial sector has consistently displayed adaptability, sustained growth, and robust resilience. This enduring performance has reinforced the UAE’s reputation as a secure, trusted, and leading financial hub regionally and globally.
The strong foundations of the UAE financial system are built on sound governance, institutional discipline, diversified financial sectors, proactive risk management, and a high level of preparedness to respond to regional and global developments.
Strength and Soundness of the Banking Sector
The UAE banking sector continues to maintain high levels of capital adequacy and liquidity, with a capital adequacy ratio of 17% and a Liquidity Coverage Ratio exceeding 146.6%—both well above international regulatory requirements.
Total assets of the sector now exceed AED 5.42 trillion, reflecting the scale, resilience, and capacity of financial institutions to meet obligations and support economic activity under varied conditions.
The nation’s banking systems, payment networks, and financial infrastructure continue to operate efficiently, backed by advanced technological frameworks that ensure secure, uninterrupted services.
Operational Readiness and Risk Management
Financial institutions in the UAE implement advanced risk identification, risk management, and business continuity frameworks aligned with international best practices. This ensures agility and resilience in addressing potential challenges.
The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates maintains close coordination with financial authorities and institutions to monitor developments, ensuring continuous operational readiness and seamless banking services across the country.
Continuous Supervision and Prudential Policies
The Central Bank continuously monitors key financial stability and liquidity indicators, conducts regular assessments, and performs stress tests to ensure the soundness and resilience of the financial system.
Its comprehensive prudential and monetary policy framework enables timely action to safeguard financial stability and maintain confidence in the UAE banking and financial sector.
Reaffirming Commitment
H.E. Khaled Mohamed Balama reaffirmed the Central Bank’s unwavering commitment to monitoring developments, maintaining full operational readiness, and supporting the UAE’s banking sector. The Bank remains dedicated to safeguarding decades of achievements while contributing to the nation’s sustainable economic development.
