Skip to content

Connecting business. Building understanding. Advancing peace.

UAE US Treasury Holdings Reach 116.1 Billion Dollars as China Holdings Drop

The United Arab Emirates increased its holdings of US Treasury bonds to $116.1 billion in August, rising by $6 billion compared to July 2026, according to US Treasury Department data reported by Voice of Emirates. In contrast, China's holdings fell to $590.7 billion from $618 billion, hitting their lowest level since August 2008. Total foreign holdings of US Treasuries edged up to $9.331 trillion during the month.

Illustration: A wide editorial view of modern financial district skyscrapers in Dubai during bright daylight, showcasing sleek steel and glass commerc
Illustration

According to the latest data from the US Treasury Department reported by Voice of Emirates, the UAE raised its holdings of US Treasury bonds to $116.1 billion in August. This represented an increase of $6 billion compared to July 2026.

The figures indicated that total foreign holdings of US Treasury bonds rose slightly in August to $9.331 trillion, up from $9.248 trillion recorded in the previous month.

The broader increase was driven by an expansion in holdings from the United Kingdom, the second-largest holder, which grew to $1.0095 trillion, as well as Belgium and Canada, which held $490.5 billion and $464.6 billion, respectively.

Meanwhile, the balance held by China, the third-largest holder of US Treasury bonds, declined to $590.7 billion from $618 billion. Voice of Emirates reported that this marked China's lowest holding level since August 2008.

Japan retained its position as the largest holder of US Treasuries, although its portfolio fell to $1.0683 trillion in August compared to $1.1039 trillion in July.

Sources

The UECN Brief

Policy updates, China–UAE business news and industry insights, delivered to your inbox.

Language
Subscriptions

Double opt-in: we send a confirmation link. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy