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UAE CMA Reports 43% Growth in Licensed Financial Entities Through September 2026

The UAE Capital Market Authority recorded a 43 percent year-on-year increase in licensed financial entities during the first nine months of 2026. Trading across the Abu Dhabi and Dubai markets reached AED 408 billion, with foreign capital accounting for 49 percent of transactions. The regulator also increased enforcement, issuing AED 12.9 million in financial fines.

Published Source: Emirates News Agency (WAM)
Issuing authority
UAE Capital Market Authority
Jurisdiction
United Arab Emirates
Publication date
October 26, 2026
Stage
Final rule
Official document
Nine-Month Performance Report 2026
Official source
www.wam.ae
Illustration: Modern financial trading room in the United Arab Emirates with glowing financial stock charts on large wall screens and empty desks at d
Illustration

The UAE Capital Market Authority published its nine-month performance report indicating a 43 percent year-on-year increase in licensed financial entities through September 2026, according to the Emirates News Agency (WAM).

During the same period, certified capital market professionals expanded by 64 percent as regulatory oversight intensified. Combined traded value on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and the Dubai Financial Market reached AED 408 billion, with foreign capital representing 49 percent of transactions.

Enforcement activity expanded during the period, with the Authority recording a 246 percent increase in financial fines issued, totaling AED 12.9 million.

Additionally, registered local investment funds grew by 94 percent year-on-year to reach 97 funds, collectively managing AED 28.6 billion in assets under management.

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