UAE investors can now enter the government-backed debt market with just AED 4,000 ($1,089), following a new partnership between the Ministry of Finance and Emirates NBD under the Retail Sukuk Initiative. This collaboration significantly broadens retail participation by providing secure, fully digital access to Treasury Bonds (T-Bonds) and Islamic Treasury Sukuk. Consequently, individuals across the UAE can invest through modern, user-friendly platforms while building a culture of saving and long-term financial stability.
The initiative allows UAE nationals and residents with an Emirates ID or UAE PASS to register online, complete KYC, create a risk profile, and review investment terms directly on the platform. Younis Haji AlKhoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, said: “ENBD participation in the Retail Sukuk Initiative represents an advanced phase in widening the pool of national institutions supporting the Ministry’s national programmes, and aligns with our strategic approach to offer government financial instruments to individuals via digital channels. The initiative is not limited to offering investment products; it seeks to embed a culture of saving and sustainable investment among citizens and residents.”
Expanding Market Participation and Financial Inclusion
Ahmed Al Qassim, Group Head of Wholesale Banking at Emirates NBD, emphasized the role of technology in enhancing market access: “Our partnership with the Ministry of Finance demonstrates ENBD’s commitment to strengthening local capital markets. By providing individual investors with access to UAE T-Bonds and T-Sukuk via the ‘ENBD X’ mobile application, we contribute to deepening the domestic debt market and making it more dynamic and resilient, thereby supporting sustainable economic growth and reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global centre for Islamic finance.”
The partnership aims not only to simplify access but also to promote financial literacy. The bank will offer investor education programmes, FAQs, and regular surveys to support first-time retail participants. Strengthening retail access to these instruments also complements broader strategic goals, encouraging household financial resilience and embedding responsible saving practices.
Future Outlook for the Retail Sukuk Initiative
All T-Bonds and T-Sukuk issued by the Ministry of Finance will be available through Emirates NBD’s platform, both via primary allocations and secondary-market transactions. This marks the second phase of strategic partnerships with national banks under the initiative, designed to expand public access to sovereign instruments and reinforce sustainable economic growth. The collaboration signals the UAE’s commitment to deepening domestic capital markets, enhancing transparency, and offering investors new opportunities in sovereign investment.
