Abu dhabi: The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) issued today its 2025 annual report, highlighting the achievements and strategic initiatives that have been key pillars in driving national economic growth and strengthening the resilience of the financial, banking, and insurance sectors, in line with the UAE's strategic objectives and future aspirations.
According to Emirates News Agency, the report underscores the financial system's high resilience in adapting to global developments through proactive monetary policies, advanced regulatory frameworks, and innovative digital solutions. These factors have cemented the UAE's position as a leading global financial hub based on the highest standards of governance and transparency.
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the CBUAE, stated that the UAE is advancing its comprehensive and sustainable development model, guided by a forward-looking leadership vision that has positioned its economy to be among the most resilient and diversified economies regionally and globally.
H.H. added that the CBUAE maintains a pivotal role in safeguarding monetary and financial stability, strengthening the resilience of the financial sector, and consolidating sustainable economic growth. The CBUAE is leading efforts to develop regulatory and supervisory frameworks, upgrade financial infrastructure, and accelerate digital transformation in the financial system.
The report highlights an exceptional economic performance, with real GDP growth of 5.6% in 2025. This growth was supported by the growing contribution of non-oil sectors, as well as the success of economic diversification strategies and proactive monetary policies in reducing inflationary pressures to stable levels of 1.3%.
The banking sector achieved regional leadership with assets valued at AED5.4 trillion, supported by a 17.9% growth in the credit portfolio and a 16.2% increase in deposits. The insurance sector also continued its growth with an increase in gross written premiums by 15.5%, reaching AED75.2 billion, alongside an increase in total assets to AED166.7 billion.
In developing supervisory and regulatory systems, the CBUAE has strengthened the financial system through additional capital buffers and the adoption of a neutral buffer of 0.5% to ensure the continuity of credit. Stress test results proved the efficiency of the banking sector to withstand risks, with capital adequacy ratios remaining above regulatory thresholds.
The CBUAE further strengthened its regulatory framework by integrating climate risks and IT governance into its supervisory priorities. These efforts were underpinned by the adoption of 'Supervisory Technology' (SupTech) tools and large data analysis, enabling proactive risk assessment.
Federal Decree-Law No. (6) of 2025 represents a transition by integrating the supervision of the banking and insurance sectors to enhance financial stability and operational independence. The new law gives the CBUAE proactive powers for early intervention, restructuring, and protecting the rights of depositors and insured people.
In the field of digital transformation, the CBUAE is leading a transformation in the financial landscape through strategic initiatives. Achievements include the growth of licensed fintech companies to 36 and the launch of the 'Jisr' platform for international settlements, among others.
As part of promoting financial inclusion and financial health, the CBUAE launched the "National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2026-2030" to ensure access to high-quality financial services for all segments. In parallel, the UAE has confirmed its position as a global benchmark for Islamic finance.
The Emiratisation initiative achieved a milestone that exceeded the targets of the 'Ethraa' programme in the financial sector, reaching 160% of the 2025 target.
Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the CBUAE, stated that in line with the vision of the wise leadership and the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the CBUAE continues to strengthen the pillars of a robust financial system characterised by resilience and efficiency. He affirmed that the CBUAE continues to reinforce the UAE's leadership as a global financial hub.
