Economy Politics Local 2026-04-04T19:53:41+00:00

Moody's Affirms UAE's Credit Rating at Aa2 with Stable Outlook

The UAE's Ministry of Finance announced that Moody's has affirmed the sovereign credit rating at Aa2 with a stable outlook. The decision reflects the strength of the economy and the effectiveness of financial authorities amidst geopolitical risks. An analysis of the key factors influencing the rating.


Moody's Affirms UAE's Credit Rating at Aa2 with Stable Outlook

The Ministry of Finance announced that credit rating agency 'Moody's' has affirmed the United Arab Emirates' credit rating at 'Aa2' with a stable outlook following its periodic review on March 30, 2026. This step reflects the continued global confidence in the strength of the national economy and the effectiveness of financial policies, despite regional geopolitical tensions. Moody's clarified that the review is not aimed at changing the rating but is part of a continuous assessment of the country's sovereign creditworthiness based on the latest economic developments and internationally recognized methodologies. The agency highlighted several key factors supporting the UAE's credit rating, including high per capita income, the robustness of institutional frameworks, the effectiveness of economic policies that promote diversification and enhance competitiveness, as well as the low level of federal government debt and the strength of the financial position, bolstered by substantial financial reserves accumulated over years of budget surpluses. On this occasion, Minister of State for Financial Affairs Mohammed bin Hadi Al Hussaini confirmed that affirming the rating with a stable outlook reflects the strength of the country's institutional framework, the efficiency of governance, and the effectiveness of its financial policies. He noted that the resilience of the financial position is based on low debt levels and a sustainable track record of balanced budgets, which enhances the country's ability to efficiently address regional and global challenges. Al Hussaini emphasized that the stable outlook affirms the strength of the UAE's sovereign creditworthiness, supported by strong financial reserves and prudent financial management, which in turn supports the stability of the national economy and sustainable growth. He pointed out that maintaining credit ratings within the investment grade category reflects the comprehensiveness of government performance and long-term strategic planning, reinforcing the UAE's position as a reliable and flexible global economic hub. The Minister confirmed that the Ministry of Finance will continue to work with relevant parties to enhance the efficiency of resource management and develop productive sectors, as well as to develop the sovereign dirham yield curve, which boosts transparency and the country's attractiveness in global capital markets. The review's results also reflect the country's progress in developing non-oil revenues and accelerating the implementation of its economic diversification agenda, in addition to the efficiency of its risk management framework and its commitment to balanced financial policies that support economic stability and sustainable growth. Moody's stated that the UAE's credit rating remains strong and resilient despite regional geopolitical tensions, underpinned by substantial financial reserves and advanced institutional frameworks. In a related context, 'S&P Global' agency confirmed on March 6, 2026, the UAE's sovereign rating at 'AA/A-1+' for both local and foreign currencies with a stable outlook, based on the strength of the government's consolidated financial position and the abundance of financial and external reserves. This provides flexibility in economic policy, enhances investor confidence, and cements the country's status as a stable and attractive destination for global capital.