Central Bank of the UAE says IMF staff confirmed economic resilience and continued banking sector growth

The Central Bank of the UAE published an update on an International Monetary Fund staff visit to the UAE from 7 to 16 July, saying the team viewed the economy as resilient and the financial sector as strong, with banking sector growth continuing. The discussions covered recent economic and financial developments, the outlook and policy priorities, and preparations for the 2026 Article IV Consultation Mission. According to the update, IMF staff said the UAE had absorbed the impact of geopolitical developments in the Middle East through sound fundamentals, ample buffers, advanced preparedness, a swift policy response and targeted support measures. The team said banks remained strongly capitalised and liquid, with continued credit and deposit growth, and highlighted the Central Bank of the UAE's Proactive Financial Institution Resilience Package launched in mid-March as supporting financial stability, institutional preparedness and operational continuity. It also noted that trade, aviation and logistics activity, together with firm domestic demand, helped sustain economic activity, while the fiscal balance is expected to remain in surplus and public debt remains low. The Central Bank of the UAE said it led national coordination for the IMF staff mission, involving 35 federal and local entities, and organised preparatory work ahead of the visit. The exercise was also used to support preparations for the 2026 Article IV Consultation Mission and to continue coordination with the IMF and domestic authorities.