UAE citizens and residents can now directly invest in government-backed Islamic Treasury Sukuk through a new digital platform launched under the Ministry of Finance’s Retail Sukuk initiative — with a minimum investment starting from AED4,000 ($1,089).
The launch marks a historic first, allowing individual investors in the UAE to buy Sharia-compliant Treasury Sukuk in smaller denominations through participating banks. The initiative aims to expand access to low-risk, government-backed investments while fostering a national culture of saving and financial inclusion.
ADIB launches Smart Sukuk platform
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) is the first partner bank to roll out the Retail Sukuk via its Smart Sukuk digital platform, which enables users to purchase fractional Sukuk securely online.
Investors can start with a minimum of AED4,000, and invest in multiples up to AED28,000 ($7,620) per transaction, with the option to make multiple purchases. Using Emirates ID or UAE PASS, users can complete registration, KYC verification, and risk profiling digitally within minutes.
“A milestone for financial empowerment”
Younis Haji Al Khoori, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, said the Retail Sukuk initiative represents “a key step in economic empowerment and sustainable saving for individuals.”
“Through this agreement with Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, we are advancing the leadership’s vision for inclusive, Sharia-compliant financial participation,” he said. “The initiative delivers a simple, secure, and fully digital investment experience designed to strengthen financial stability for families and the wider community.”
Jawaan Awaidah Al Khaili, Chairman of ADIB, added that the programme bridges the gap between institutional and retail markets.
“We are proud to be the first partner in this pioneering programme, which expands investment opportunities for all. By bridging institutional and retail markets, we are enabling everyone to access high-quality, low-risk Sukuk backed by the UAE government.”
Expanding access and literacy
The Retail Sukuk will be listed on the Ministry’s digital platform, excluding those nearing maturity, and will be available through primary allocations and secondary market transactions via ADIB. The bank will also launch educational initiatives, FAQs, and investor awareness campaigns to ensure transparency and accessibility.
According to the Ministry, this collaboration marks the first phase of a broader rollout that will include additional national banks in the coming months. The programme is designed to boost financial literacy, encourage saving, and promote long-term financial sustainability among UAE residents.
The platform offers full transparency on profit distribution schedules, maturity dates, fees, and early redemption options, supported by a clear regulatory framework and a preferential fee structure to foster investor confidence.
