UAE Banks Provide Dh6.2 Billion Relief to Affected Customers

According to the latest figures released by the regulator, a total of 65,379 customers benefited from the support package. The beneficiaries included 60,559 individual customers, 4,335 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and 485 large companies operating in various sectors of the economy.

The support package introduced by the banking sector includes loan repayment deferments, interest reductions, and exemptions from selected banking fees. The initiative was launched to help businesses and individuals manage financial obligations during challenging economic conditions while ensuring continued access to banking and financing services.

The Central Bank stated that priority sectors receiving support under the initiative included hospitality, transport, and entertainment. Data released by the authority showed that 173 hospitality companies, 361 transport businesses, and 134 entertainment firms benefited from the relief measures.

Alongside the support announcement, the Central Bank also highlighted continued growth within the UAE banking sector between March 1 and May 1, 2026. During the two-month period, total banking assets increased by 2.1 percent, loans grew by 3.2 percent, and deposits recorded a rise of 1.9 percent. The monetary base coverage ratio reached 115.3 percent, reflecting strong liquidity and financial resilience across the banking system.

Officials noted that businesses and customers affected by economic disruptions can continue communicating with their banks during the support period to access available relief measures and financial facilities.

Under the current mechanism, eligible businesses are allowed to defer loan repayments for up to six months without their accounts being classified as defaults. The package also includes the temporary suspension of interest charges and banking fees on affected facilities, while banks continue providing financing support to priority economic sectors.

The Central Bank clarified that the support measures are available to individuals, SMEs, and large corporations impacted by economic challenges, with no minimum loan amount required to qualify for assistance.

The latest relief figures highlight the UAE’s ongoing commitment to supporting economic recovery, strengthening financial resilience, and ensuring stability within the country’s banking sector amid evolving market conditions.