Central Bank of The UAE

Economic Response to Changes and Strengthening Confidence: The UAE as a Proactive Model

Since the beginning of March 2026, the UAE has presented a comprehensive and proactive model for managing economic affairs amidst current global changes.

This model is based on the integration of government, monetary, and regulatory policies with private sector initiatives, alongside the active role of financial centers and capital markets, within an advanced coordination framework that has contributed to strengthening the stability of local markets, containing the repercussions of geopolitical tensions, and consolidating investor confidence.

This response came in light of geopolitical tensions that impacted markets and supply chains worldwide, necessitating a swift and multifaceted approach.

The Central Bank of the UAE spearheaded efforts to enhance financial stability through a comprehensive proactive support package aimed at strengthening the resilience of financial institutions and supporting the stability and robustness of the banking sector in the country under exceptional global and regional circumstances.

In this context, the UAE Banks Federation affirmed that these facilitations have contributed to strengthening banks' resilience and adaptability to changes, enabling them to continue growing and thus solidifying the stability and strength of the banking sector in the country.

For its part, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism coordinated the response with various entities, monitored market conditions, and enhanced communication channels with the private sector, particularly regarding supply chains and price stability.

Local government agencies, in turn, activated field plans that included expediting customs procedures, strengthening market oversight, and ensuring the uninterrupted flow of goods.

Abu Dhabi Customs continued its ongoing coordination with strategic partners and relevant authorities to support operational sustainability and maintain the smooth flow of shipping and trade through the emirate's customs ports.

The Abu Dhabi Investment Office, in collaboration with SevenX, announced the launch of "Adheed," the UAE Supply Chain and Trade Facilitation Observatory, in coordination with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, Abu Dhabi Customs, the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council.

In Dubai, a package of facilities totaling AED 1 billion was approved, encompassing vital sectors, reflecting a swift response to evolving circumstances.

Rashid Ali Al Ansari, CEO of Al Ansari Financial Group, stated that this significant initiative reflects a proactive leadership vision that prioritizes empowering the private sector and enhancing its competitiveness. He emphasized that the importance of this step lies not only in its scale but also in the speed and precision of its implementation.

Dubai South launched a flexible package of facilities specifically designed for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This package included a range of measures aimed at providing immediate financial flexibility, such as rent freezes for tenants upon contract renewal, greater flexibility in payment deferrals, and exemptions from certain administrative fees.

Regarding financial centers, both Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) continued to attract major international companies seeking to expand their operations in the region and globally.

For its part, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) enhanced its financial business environment by streamlining procedures and launching a temporary economic relief package, effective immediately, aimed at easing short-term operational and financial pressures on the Centre’s business and retail sectors.

The DIFC also witnessed the establishment of Atradius, a global provider of trade credit insurance and risk management, which began operations within the Centre, marking a significant milestone in its Middle East growth strategy.

Emirates NBD launched its “Business Support Package” to assist small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in managing costs and cash flow. Several other banks also launched dedicated initiatives, including Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank’s “Sanadna” initiative, which provides frontline workers with financial facilities and exclusive banking benefits, and Dubai Islamic Bank’s initiative to recognize frontline heroes.