CBUAE gold reserves exceed $11.71 billion amid sharp monthly surge
DUBAI, UAE – March 26, 2026 — The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) announced gold reserves reached AED 43.051 billion ($11.71 billion) at the end of January 2026, representing a 13.6% month-on-month increase and a 75% year-on-year surge. The expansion strengthens the UAE’s reserve position amid global economic volatility and regional de-dollarization trends.
Announcement Specifics
Gold reserves increased by AED 5.149 billion from December 2025’s AED 37.902 billion, according to CBUAE’s monthly statistical bulletin released March 26, 2026. The January 2026 figure marks a substantial acceleration from January 2025’s AED 24.571 billion.
Foreign assets exceeded AED 1.084 trillion at the end of January, up from AED 1.058 trillion at the end of December 2025.
The UAE aggressively built gold holdings throughout 2025, with reserves surging 65% to AED 37.902 billion by year-end from lower levels at the start of that year.
Industry Context
Central banks globally are increasing gold holdings as a diversification strategy amid currency volatility and de-dollarization momentum. The UAE’s reserve strategy reflects broader regional efforts to hedge geopolitical risks while supporting currency stability for the dirham.
Geopolitical tensions have driven elevated demand for gold across MENA markets, with the UAE’s approach positioning the nation as a regional leader in reserve management. The buildup serves dual purposes: mitigating external economic shocks and maintaining investor confidence in the UAE’s financial infrastructure.
As the largest financial hub in MENA, the UAE’s reserve expansion enhances systemic resilience across its banking sector and supports the growth trajectory of fintech innovation by reinforcing macroeconomic stability. The reserve position provides a foundation for continued confidence in Dubai and Abu Dhabi as primary investment destinations.
Conclusion
CBUAE’s accelerated gold accumulation signals proactive risk management and positions the UAE’s reserves to weather future economic challenges while maintaining the dirham’s stability. The reserve buildup reinforces the UAE’s status as a regional anchor for financial resilience.
Sources: Zawya, WAM, Gulf Today, Gulf News
