Banking, fintech, funds, capital markets and cross-border investment
The UAE Financial Intelligence Unit and Dubai's Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority signed a Memorandum of Understanding on October 5 to enhance financial intelligence sharing. The agreement aims to strengthen joint efforts against virtual asset-related financial crime and cross-border risks. The initiative links regulatory supervision directly with financial intelligence analysis.
The Central Bank of the UAE reported that 148,681 individual banking customers received AED 2.3 billion in loan repayment deferrals by the end of August 2026 under its Financial Institutions Resilience Package. Overall, the support programme covered 155,971 customers and extended AED 15.9 billion in relief across retail, SME, and private-sector borrowers. Banking sector indicators also recorded double-digit year-on-year growth across loans, assets, and deposits.
The UAE has climbed five places to rank 25th among 139 economies in the 2026 Global Innovation Index published by WIPO. The country secured first place worldwide across four indicators, including start-up financing and entrepreneurial policies. It also recorded strong performances in high-tech exports, brand value, and mobile application downloads.
Abu Dhabi has expanded container terminals and oil storage at the Port of Fujairah under its 'Zero Hormuz' infrastructure initiative to secure direct trade corridors to China outside the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Dubai Chambers and the Greater Bay Area Importers and Exporters Association unveiled the delegation and attendee lineup for the 2026 Dubai Business Forum – China in Shenzhen. Over 90 Dubai officials and senior executives, alongside more than 600 registered Chinese companies, are confirmed to participate in the bilateral event.
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