The UAE Capital Market Authority reported stronger regulatory performance in 2025, supported by an expanded legislative framework and a more flexible supervisory model. Moreover, the CMA said rising domestic and international investor confidence helped deepen market liquidity and reinforced the UAE’s position as a regional financial hub.
According to the CMA’s 2025 annual report, average daily trading value reached AED 2.21 billion, representing a 24.16% increase compared to 2024. Additionally, net foreign investment inflows totalled AED 18.7 billion, including AED 14.1 billion in Abu Dhabi and AED 4.6 billion in Dubai, while net institutional investment stood at AED 1.17 billion.
Market capitalisation on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange rose 4.7% to AED 3.14 trillion. Meanwhile, the Dubai Financial Market climbed 7.6% to AED 0.98 trillion.
Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the CMA, said the UAE’s financial sector is undergoing a qualitative transformation where national vision intersects with global market momentum. He added that the Authority continues to develop a regulatory environment that balances economic growth, financial stability and institutional confidence.
Waleed Saeed Al Awadhi, Chief Executive Officer, said 2025 marked a significant milestone in the Authority’s development. Moreover, he noted that the CMA advanced legislative reforms, strengthened supervisory efficiency, and supported innovation to reinforce sustainable market growth.
Issuance Activity and Market Expansion
The report highlighted strong issuance momentum during 2025, with equity listings reaching AED 14.53 billion. Additionally, IPOs accounted for AED 7.29 billion, while direct listings contributed AED 7.24 billion, alongside AED 6.12 billion in capital increases.
The value of listed bonds and sukuk reached AED 27.6 billion. Moreover, bond and sukuk issuances through private placements totalled AED 638 billion, while green bonds and sukuk reached AED 8.6 billion.
During the year, four companies listed on local markets and five public joint-stock companies registered. Additionally, the Authority approved three mergers and acquisitions, bringing the total number of listed companies to 199 by year-end.
Local investment funds also expanded sharply. As a result, the number of licensed funds rose to 37 in 2025 from 18 in 2024, reflecting growth of 106%. End-of-service gratuity savings funds totalled 13.
Foreign investment fund registrations reached 158 by the end of 2025. Additionally, 44 funds were registered under passporting agreements, while four foreign funds were registered for listing purposes.
Supervision, Enforcement and International Engagement
The licensing sector also recorded continued growth, with licensed companies rising to 244 and total licences issued reaching 602. Moreover, the CMA approved 252 new activities during the year.
The Authority issued 259 legal consultations and reviewed 58 grievances. Additionally, it obtained 12 ISO certifications, reflecting its institutional development efforts.
Supervisory activity expanded under the risk-based framework. As a result, the CMA conducted on-site inspections for 80 of 84 targeted companies and assessed risks for 155 licensed firms. Moreover, it organised 14 compliance workshops attended by 2,291 participants.
On enforcement, the Authority handled 75 complaints and issued 324 supervisory actions. These included 99 warnings, 82 alerts, 73 financial penalties and 44 referrals to the Public Prosecution, alongside two trading suspensions and four directives.
The CMA also expanded its international engagement, with memoranda of understanding reaching 166, including seven newly signed agreements. Additionally, it held 52 bilateral meetings, processed 65 requests from IOSCO members, and participated in 10 international conferences.
Human Capital and Emiratisation
The Authority continued investing in national talent development. Moreover, Emiratisation reached 82.8%, while the workforce totalled 169 employees.
Women represented 42.8% of employees. Additionally, they held 9.1% of leadership positions by the end of 2025.
