Dubai banks hold 46% of UAE deposits, exceeding Dh1.3 trillion

Dubai-based banks have cemented their position as major players in the UAE’s banking sector, holding 46 per cent of the country’s total bank deposits, which reached a cumulative balance of Dh1.308 trillion as of January 31, 2025. This reflects a robust annual growth of 13.1 per cent compared to the same period last year, according to the latest figures released by the Central Bank of the UAE.

The data also revealed that total assets of Dubai banks stood at Dh2.025 trillion by the end of January 2025, marking an 11.3 per cent year-on-year increase. The sector’s growing appeal was further demonstrated by a rise in investment balances, which climbed to Dh287 billion — up 11.8per cent from January 2024.

Credit facilities granted by Dubai banks also recorded healthy growth, increasing by 6.1per cent year-on-year to Dh963.5 billion.

Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi banks reported total assets of Dh2.175 trillion, with deposit balances reaching Dh1.294 trillion. Investments made by Abu Dhabi banks climbed to Dh389 billion, highlighting continued confidence in the market.

Other banks across the UAE held a combined asset base of over Dh362 billion, with deposits amounting to Dh238 billion. Credit balances among these banks reached Dh191 billion, while total investments stood at Dh 67 billion as of the end of January 2025.

These figures underscore the strong momentum of the UAE’s banking sector, driven by rising deposits, sustained credit activity, and expanding investment portfolios.