The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) has recorded a remarkable rise in its gold reserves, exceeding $8.17 billion (AED30 billion) for the first time. This marks an increase of nearly 32 percent during the first eight months of 2025, signaling strong reserve diversification and sustained confidence in precious metals.
By the end of August, the value of gold holdings reached AED30.329 billion, compared with AED22.981 billion at the end of December 2024. The upward trend reflects the bank’s continued efforts to strengthen its financial buffers amid global economic uncertainties. On a monthly basis, reserves grew by more than 4.5 percent in August, up from AED28.997 billion at the end of July.
Broader Expansion in Deposits
Alongside the growth in gold reserves, the CBUAE’s demand deposits also showed significant improvement. These rose to over AED1.188 trillion by the end of August, compared with AED1.109 trillion in December 2024. Of this total, AED892.273 billion was held in local currency, while AED296.137 billion was maintained in foreign currencies.
Meanwhile, savings deposits increased to AED376.479 billion, up from AED317.48 billion at the end of last year. They included AED321.761 billion in local currency and AED54.718 billion in foreign currencies. This steady growth highlights continued confidence in the UAE’s banking system and reflects strong liquidity within the domestic economy.
Time Deposits Continue to Strengthen
In addition, time deposits exceeded AED1.05 trillion by the end of August. Of this figure, AED664.669 billion was held in local currency and AED386.19 billion in foreign currencies. These indicators together demonstrate the resilience of the UAE’s financial sector, which continues to benefit from prudent monetary policies and investor confidence.
The CBUAE’s growing gold reserves, coupled with expanding deposits, underscore the country’s strong financial position and its commitment to maintaining stability amid evolving global market conditions.
