Why did the UAE central bank issue a stability statement after missile and drone attacks?

The Central Bank of the UAE issued a statement to reassure markets that the country’s financial system remains fully operational despite missile and drone attacks linked to regional tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Authorities said banks, insurers, and financial institutions continue operating normally. The announcement was intended to maintain confidence among investors and businesses during geopolitical stress.

Is the UAE banking system currently stable?

Yes. According to the Central Bank of the UAE, the financial system remains stable and resilient despite the recent attacks. Banks and financial institutions are operating “with full efficiency and stability,” and regulators say the sector maintains strong liquidity and capital buffers.

What financial strength indicators did the UAE central bank highlight?

The central bank said the UAE banking system has a capital adequacy ratio of around 17% and a liquidity coverage ratio above 146.6%. Both figures exceed international regulatory requirements. The regulator also reported that total assets across the UAE banking and financial sector exceed 5.42 trillion dirhams (about $1.48 trillion).

How large is the UAE financial sector?

The UAE banking and financial system holds more than 5.42 trillion dirhams ($1.48 trillion) in total assets. This scale reflects the country’s role as a major financial hub in the Middle East. Large asset bases and strong liquidity ratios help the sector remain resilient during geopolitical disruptions.

Why does the UAE’s financial stability matter for global markets?

The UAE is a major regional financial centre connecting Middle Eastern, Asian, and global capital flows. Stability in the country’s banking system helps maintain confidence among international investors and multinational companies operating in the region. Any disruption could affect trade, logistics, and investment activity across the Gulf.

How big is the crypto industry in the UAE?

The UAE hosts more than 1,800 cryptocurrency and blockchain companies employing over 8,600 people. Dubai’s DMCC free zone alone hosts more than 600 Web3 firms. This rapid growth has positioned the UAE as one of the world’s emerging hubs for digital asset companies.

How are crypto companies responding to the geopolitical tensions in the UAE?

Some crypto firms operating in the UAE have activated contingency plans. For example, exchanges have reviewed employee safety and activated cross-regional operational support. These steps are designed to maintain trading operations and protect staff if regional tensions escalate.

What did Bitget say about its response to the situation?

Bitget CEO Gracy Chen told employees the exchange had activated emergency protocols while monitoring the security situation in the Middle East. The company said it would support staff and ensure operations continue during the period of heightened geopolitical risk. The statement suggests firms are prioritising both employee safety and business continuity.

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Image for illustrative purposes only. Not a real photo.

UAE banks resilient despite missile attack tensions

Written by Jon CuthbertPublished Mar 6, 2026, 12:00 AMLast Updated Mar 5, 2026, 11:20 PM

The United Arab Emirates’ banking system remains fully operational despite recent missile and drone attacks linked to escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran, according to the country’s central bank.

Central Bank of the UAE Governor Khaled Mohamed Balama said banks, financial institutions, and insurers continue operating normally and the financial sector is maintaining strong resilience during the regional security situation.

“Banks, financial institutions and insurers continue to operate with full efficiency and stability,”

Said Central Bank of the UAE governor, Khaled Mohamed Balama.

The central bank said the country’s financial system remains well capitalised, with the banking sector holding a capital adequacy ratio of about 17% and a liquidity coverage ratio above 146.6%, both exceeding international regulatory requirements.

Authorities said the UAE banking and financial sector holds more than 5.42 trillion dirhams ($1.48 trillion) in total assets while regulators continue coordinating with institutions to monitor risks and maintain operational readiness.

The UAE has become a major hub for digital asset companies, with more than 1,800 crypto businesses employing over 8,600 people across the country.

Several crypto firms have activated contingency measures amid the tensions, with Bitget CEO Gracy Chen saying in an internal message:

“We have activated emergency protocols and will accompany and support every colleague during this special period.”