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Central Bank of the UAE

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: Gulf News

UAE Central Bank Launches Global Financial Health Innovation Hackathon for Businesses

The Central Bank of the UAE has launched a Financial Health Innovation Hackathon to discover practical solutions that help individuals and businesses manage their finances. Organised in partnership with international and local bodies, applications are open to both UAE-based and international organisations until November 30, 2026. Successful applicants will proceed to evaluation and pilot testing phases running through 2027.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: Gulf News

UAE Fintech Market Projected to Exceed 5 Billion Dollars by 2029

The UAE fintech market is forecast to grow from roughly $3 billion in 2024 to more than $5 billion by 2029, with over 320 fintech companies active nationwide. Central Bank data shows the country has climbed to fourth globally on the Global FinTech Centre Index, with over 75 firms licensed or approved across six categories.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: PR Newswire

Optro Opens Dubai Hub to Support Agentic GRC Transition Across Middle East

AI-powered GRC platform Optro has established a regional hub in Dubai to support growing Middle Eastern demand for autonomous risk governance and regulatory compliance. The announcement was made at the 2026 CAE Conference in Abu Dhabi. The expansion aligns with regional directives requiring public and private entities to govern autonomous AI operations and adhere to evolving UAE digital regulations.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: The National

UAE Clarifies Overstay Fines, Illegal Employment Penalties, and Debt Travel Ban Thresholds

Legal guidance published by The National details UAE regulations on visa overstays, illegal employment, and civil travel bans. Overstay fines are standardized at Dh50 per day across all emirates, while companies hiring workers without proper visas face fines up to Dh50,000. Additionally, civil travel bans for outstanding debt can only be initiated for claims of Dh10,000 or more under federal law.

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