The UAE has introduced a groundbreaking ‘Retail Sukuk’ initiative, enabling citizens and residents to invest in sovereign-backed Islamic financial instruments with a minimum investment of just Dh4,000. Announced by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance, this initiative aims to democratize access to public-sector financing while fostering a culture of saving and financial inclusion. The retail version of the government’s T-Sukuk programme allows individual investors to lend money to the federal government through Shariah-compliant instruments, receiving periodic profit payments and the face value at maturity. Previously reserved for institutional investors, this rollout marks a significant shift in the UAE’s financial-market architecture. The initiative aligns with the leadership’s vision of empowering individuals, promoting economic participation, and strengthening the domestic debt capital market. For residents, this offers a secure, government-guaranteed investment channel, diversifying savings beyond conventional deposits or real estate. The first participating bank is set to be announced on November 3, 2025. The broader public policy implications include enhancing financial inclusion, reducing reliance on foreign-currency debt, and reinforcing the UAE’s capital-market infrastructure. This initiative represents a strategic move to deepen the financial-market architecture while providing accessible investment opportunities for everyday residents.
New ‘retail sukuk’ initiative: UAE residents can buy govt bonds from just Dh4,000
