Investments by banks operating in the UAE rose steadily at the start of 2026, reflecting growing confidence and sustained momentum across the financial sector.
Total investments climbed by 2 percent in January, increasing by AED16.9 billion to reach AED872.3 billion, according to newly released data from the Central Bank.
On an annual basis, bank investments recorded a strong 17.4 percent growth compared to January 2025. A significant portion of this expansion came from investments in debt securities, which reached AED418.6 billion. This segment alone posted a 26 percent year-on-year increase and a 3.1 percent monthly rise.
Bonds held to maturity also contributed to the upward trend, growing by 10.5 percent annually and 0.8 percent month-on-month to reach AED371.1 billion. Meanwhile, investments in equities surged, rising 31.9 percent year-on-year and 3.3 percent monthly to AED25.2 billion. Other investment categories edged up by 0.9 percent, totaling AED57.4 billion.
Beyond investments, banking activity remained robust. Transfers conducted through the UAE Funds Transfer System reached approximately AED2.08 trillion in January. Of this, AED1.21 trillion was executed by banks, while customers accounted for around AED864.6 billion.
Cheque transactions also saw notable volumes, with AED125.2 billion processed across 1.95 million cheques during the month.
The latest figures highlight a resilient banking sector, supported by strong financial flows and diversified investment growth at the outset of the year.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
