The UAE Ministry of Finance has unveiled new data showcasing the success of its Retail Sukuk initiative, launched in November 2025. Total trading in retail Sukuk and fractional bonds reached approximately AED 10.84 million, involving 464 investors. This reflects growing confidence in the UAE's investment environment despite global economic challenges. Younis Haji AlKhoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, stated that the results achieved by the Retail Sukuk initiative demonstrate the strength of the UAE's economic fundamentals and the resilience of its financial sector. AlKhoori added that the growing participation of investors underscores increasing financial literacy and strong community confidence in government-backed financial instruments. He noted that the results are supported by the UAE's prudent fiscal policies and a clear strategic vision focused on strengthening financial sustainability and diversifying income sources to enhance the national economy's competitiveness. He also pointed out that partnerships with national banks have played an important role in expanding the initiative and improving distribution channels in line with global best practices, helping the programme reach wider segments of society. He concluded by stressing that the Retail Sukuk initiative has become a key driver behind the development of the UAE’s public debt market and the diversification of its investor base, adding that it helps enhance the efficiency of local financial markets, strengthen investor confidence and reinforce the UAE’s position as a stable and reliable regional and global financial hub. The data showed that new investors accounted for about 66 percent of total trading value, equivalent to AED 7.166 million across 248 investors. Meanwhile, existing investors contributed around AED 3.67 million, representing 34 percent of total trading across 216 investors, reflecting continued reinvestment activity and sustained confidence in the programme. In terms of distribution strength, Emirates NBD and Emirates Islamic Bank led investment activity, with a combined AED 6.35 million (59 percent) from 275 investors, reflecting the effectiveness of distribution channels and the breadth of market reach. Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank recorded AED 4.48 million (41 percent) from 189 investors, supported by strong participation from new investors (128 investors), highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships in expanding the initiative’s reach. Investor behaviour also showed a preference for short- and medium-term issuances. The Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with participating national banks, continues to implement an integrated awareness programme designed to enhance investment literacy and enable individuals to make informed financial decisions. This collaboration embodies an advanced model of partnership and integration between the public and private sectors in advancing national objectives, through aligned efforts and complementary roles that contribute to expanding the investor base and strengthening sustainable financial stability. It further builds on the objectives of the Year of Community in fostering social cohesion and community integration, while aligning with the direction of the Year of Family, which places emphasis on supporting families.
