UAE Banking Sector Assets Exceed AED 5.55 Trillion in Q1 2026
The UAE banking sector continued its strong growth trajectory during the first quarter of 2026, with total banking assets surpassing AED 5.55 trillion by the end of March, reinforcing the country’s position as one of the region’s largest and most resilient financial hubs.
Strong Growth in Credit and Deposits
According to new data released by the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates, banking assets reached AED 5.556 trillion at the end of March, compared to AED 5.472 trillion in February, marking a monthly increase of 1.5%, equivalent to AED 84 billion.
The figures also showed that total banking credit rose sharply to AED 2.695 trillion, up by AED 64.9 billion during March alone. The central bank attributed most of this increase to stronger domestic lending activity, which expanded by AED 52.4 billion during the month.
At the same time, total bank deposits climbed to AED 3.446 trillion by the end of March, reflecting monthly growth of AED 106 billion and highlighting continued liquidity strength across the sector.
Gold Reserves Continue to Rise
The central bank’s gold holdings also posted notable growth during the first quarter, increasing by 5.54% to nearly AED 40 billion by the end of March, compared to approximately AED 37.9 billion at the end of 2025.
The increase reflects broader efforts by central banks globally to strengthen reserve diversification amid ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties.
Financial Transfers Hit Massive Volumes
Meanwhile, banking transfers executed through the UAE Funds Transfer System reached AED 6.66 trillion during the first quarter of the year. Banks accounted for AED 4.058 trillion of total transfers, while customer transactions represented AED 2.602 trillion.
The figures underline the UAE’s expanding role as a regional financial and business center supported by high banking activity, strong liquidity, and growing investor confidence.
Sector Maintains Regional Leadership
The latest data comes as the UAE banking sector continues to benefit from strong economic growth, increased business activity, and sustained government investment across infrastructure, real estate, tourism, and financial services.
Analysts expect the sector to maintain positive momentum throughout 2026, supported by stable monetary conditions, rising lending activity, and continued expansion in non-oil sectors of the economy.