UAE remains major remittance market as outward transfers jump 28% to Dh188.8 billion

The United Arab Emirates continues to solidify its position as a major remittance market, with outward transfers jumping 27.8% year-on-year to Dh188.8 billion in 2025, according to the Central Bank of the UAE's Financial Stability Report. Personal remittances constituted the largest portion of these outbound flows at Dh115.7 billion, followed by trade remittances at Dh63.3 billion.

Despite the significant outflow, money flowing into the UAE also saw a substantial increase. Inward remittances rose by 53.6% to Dh36 billion, with trade-related transfers accounting for Dh22.8 billion and personal remittances at Dh8.1 billion. This indicates a dynamic financial landscape within the region.

Furthermore, the UAE's Islamic banking sector is experiencing remarkable growth, with assets climbing 22% to Dh1.329 trillion in 2025. This expansion aligns with the nation's strategic goal to become a global Islamic finance hub, aiming for Dh4.96 trillion in total Islamic finance assets by 2031. The sector's increasing market share and the overall growth in financial services underscore the UAE's economic resilience and strategic financial planning.