More than 65,300 residents and businesses in the United Arab Emirates have received financial support through a Dh6.2 billion resilience package introduced by the country’s central bank in response to regional instability and economic uncertainty.
According to figures released by the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates, the programme has benefited 60,559 individuals, 4,335 small and medium-sized enterprises, and 485 corporate entities through loan deferments, fee waivers and interest relief measures.
The package was approved on March 18 as part of a broader effort to strengthen the UAE banking sector against the economic impact of the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. Authorities said the initiative was designed to maintain financial stability while supporting sectors most exposed to regional disruption.
Businesses operating in transport, hospitality and entertainment were among the biggest beneficiaries of the programme. Central bank data showed that 361 transport firms, 173 hospitality companies and 134 entertainment businesses had received assistance by May 1.
Under the scheme, eligible customers can apply for loan payment deferments of up to six months without being classified as in default. The support measures also include suspension of interest charges and fees on affected facilities, along with continued access to financing for priority economic sectors.
The central bank said no minimum loan amount is required to qualify for assistance, making the package accessible to both individuals and businesses facing temporary financial pressure.
Several major UAE banks have also launched their own relief initiatives alongside the central bank programme.
Dubai Islamic Bank introduced a support initiative that has already assisted nearly 25,000 customers. The programme includes instalment deferments of up to three months on selected personal and auto finance products without additional profit charges or fees. Customers are also being offered fee waivers and school fee payment plans with zero charges for six months.
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank launched its “Sanadna” initiative, aimed at supporting frontline workers and SMEs. The bank is allowing businesses to defer instalments for up to 60 days and is also offering fee reductions on point-of-sale services.
First Abu Dhabi Bank announced preferential lending rates, cashback offers and flexible payment plans for frontline workers, while Ajman Bank waived deferment fees for personal finance customers for up to three months through its “Talahom” programme.
Emirates NBD also expanded customer support measures, including fee waivers, delayed instalment billing and zero-interest balance transfer options. The bank said processing fees on zero per cent instalment plans would remain waived until mid-June.
Despite regional uncertainty, the UAE banking sector continued to record growth. Central bank data showed banking assets increased by 2.1 per cent, while loans rose 3.2 per cent and deposits expanded 1.9 per cent during the latest reporting period.
