The number of authorised financial influencers in the United Arab Emirates has risen sharply, reaching 171 under a new regulatory framework introduced by the UAE Capital Market Authority. Officials say the figure reflects a rapid expansion of oversight in a sector that plays a growing role in shaping investment decisions.
The regulator revealed that the number of licensed “finfluencers” has increased by 1,800% since the framework was introduced, with these individuals collectively reaching more than 24.6 million followers across social media platforms.
The announcement was made during an event marking the International Week of Action, a global initiative focused on raising awareness about online financial risks, including misleading investment advice, scams, and unregulated promotions.
Under rules that came into effect in May 2025, anyone in the UAE producing content related to investments, trading or financial advice must obtain a licence. The move marked the first system of its kind in the region, aimed at bringing accountability to a rapidly expanding digital space.
The first group of licensed influencers was approved in June 2025, with 10 individuals receiving authorisation to operate under the new guidelines. Since then, the number has grown significantly as more content creators comply with the requirements.
Waleed Saeed Al Awadhi, chief executive of the Capital Market Authority, said the rise of digital platforms has transformed how financial information is shared and consumed. He noted that content now reaches audiences at a scale and speed that can directly affect investment behaviour, making accuracy and transparency increasingly important.
He said the regulatory framework sets clear standards for influencers, allowing them to operate with credibility while helping to build trust in financial content and support the stability of capital markets in the UAE.
Rather than focusing solely on enforcement, the authority said it is working to encourage responsible communication by integrating licensed influencers into the broader financial system. This includes promoting their role in improving financial literacy and ensuring that audiences receive reliable and balanced information.
As part of the International Week of Action, authorised influencers are collaborating with the regulator to spread awareness about responsible investing and the dangers of misleading online content. Campaigns are focusing on helping users identify unlicensed operators and avoid fraudulent schemes.
The initiative comes as the UAE continues to expand its digital economy, with financial technology and online investment platforms attracting increasing public interest.
Officials say the licensing system is designed not only to protect consumers but also to support the development of a more transparent and accountable financial environment, where digital voices play a recognised and regulated role.
