Bank of Thailand

China–UAE News

Saudi Central Bank Concludes mBridge Role Amid China Cross-Border Payment Initiative

Saudi Arabia announced on September 19, 2026, that it had completed its participation in the China-led mBridge CBDC initiative over a year prior. The Saudi Central Bank stated its involvement was limited to the proof-of-concept phase finished in May 2025. An analysis by Small Wars Journal noted that technical participation in emerging payment systems does not ensure long-term geopolitical alignment.

Policy & Legal Updates

Saudi Central Bank Concludes Participation in Cross-Border mBridge Digital Currency Platform

The Saudi Central Bank has concluded its formal participation in Project mBridge following the completion of a proof-of-concept phase in May 2025. The cross-border digital currency initiative was developed jointly with China and the UAE to facilitate non-dollar trade settlements. Operations continue among the remaining participants, including the central banks of the UAE, China, Hong Kong, and Thailand.