The UAE Ministry of Finance has released a comprehensive report detailing the federal government’s public debt strategy and market development between 2022 and 2025, highlighting increased issuance activity, strong investor participation, and stable sovereign credit ratings. The report, titled “Federal Government Public Debt 2022–2025: Efficiency and Sustainable Financing,” outlines the country’s approach to managing debt as part of broader efforts to support economic resilience and long-term growth.
According to the report, the UAE conducted 23 auctions of Islamic Treasury Sukuk worth Dh27 billion and eight Treasury Bond auctions totalling Dh11.2 billion by the end of 2025. All issuances were listed on Nasdaq Dubai, reinforcing the country’s commitment to building a transparent and diversified debt market.
On the international front, the government raised $10 billion through US dollar-denominated bonds between 2021 and 2024. These issuances recorded strong investor demand, with subscription levels exceeding five times the offering size.
Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, said the UAE remains committed to strengthening its economic system through long-term financial planning and sustainable strategies. He emphasized that public debt management plays a critical role in balancing spending efficiency with resource sustainability while enhancing the country’s investment environment.
He further noted that a well-structured sovereign debt market contributes to financial system stability and provides policymakers with greater flexibility in addressing economic challenges.
Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, highlighted that improving the efficiency of public debt management remains a key priority within the UAE’s advanced financial framework. He added that the Ministry continues to develop sovereign debt instruments aligned with global best practices to support sustainable financial stability.
The UAE continues to maintain strong sovereign credit ratings, including Aa2 from Moody’s, AA- from Fitch, and AA from S&P Global, all with stable outlooks, reflecting investor confidence in the country’s fiscal position.
The report also outlines the structure of a federal investment portfolio introduced in May 2025, with 51% allocated to US Treasury bonds and the remainder invested in diversified assets such as corporate bonds and asset-backed securities.
In a move to expand investor participation, a retail-focused initiative launched in November 2025 allowed individuals to invest in Treasury Sukuk and bonds with a minimum investment of Dh4,000. The programme attracted approximately 310 investors and generated Dh7.10 million in subscriptions.
The Ministry stated that the report serves as a national reference for public debt management, detailing frameworks for risk mitigation, regulatory compliance, and market development in line with international standards.
The findings underscore the UAE’s continued efforts to strengthen its financial infrastructure and position itself as a stable and attractive destination for global investment.
