CBUAE and UAE Internal Auditors Association Sign MoU for Enhanced Financial Supervision
ABU DHABI, UAE – February 19, 2026 — The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) and the UAE Internal Auditors Association (UAE IAA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to elevate financial oversight standards and modernize regulatory frameworks across the Emirates. The agreement, executed at CBUAE headquarters by Ibraheem Al Sayed Mohamed Al Hashemi and Abdulqader Obaid Ali, promotes Emiratisation and advances global best practices in financial supervision.
Announcement Specifics
The MoU establishes a framework for bilateral cooperation to develop oversight systems, modernize corporate governance structures, and build confidence in financial transactions. The partnership will launch specialized programs focused on UAE talent development, facilitate expertise exchange between institutions, and organize joint events to strengthen professional capabilities in financial supervision and internal audit functions.
Stakeholder Perspectives
“This MoU embodies CBUAE’s commitment to the vision of our wise leadership towards pioneering the UAE financial sector. At the CBUAE, we are keen on integrating efforts with all partners to develop professional institutions, modernise work mechanisms, and build specialised national capabilities. Strengthening the culture of financial supervision is a fundamental pillar in making our financial institutions active partners in the sustainable growth and economic prosperity in the UAE.”
— Ibraheem Al Sayed Mohamed Al Hashemi, CBUAE
Why it matters: The statement positions financial supervision as integral to UAE’s economic prosperity strategy, linking regulatory advancement directly to national development goals.
“Through this collaboration, we aim to empower Emirati auditors and provide them with the latest tools and knowledge that match global standards. This synergy ensures the enhancement of national institutions’ capabilities, enabling them to anticipate future challenges with confidence and efficiency.”
— Abdulqader Obaid Ali, UAE Internal Auditors Association
Why it matters: The focus on equipping local talent with international-standard capabilities accelerates Emiratisation while maintaining competitive global positioning.
Industry Context
The UAE financial sector operates under CBUAE regulations that enforce minimum corporate governance standards for banks and finance companies. As internal audit compliance requirements intensify in 2026, this partnership addresses growing demands for sophisticated oversight mechanisms. The MoU reinforces UAE’s position as a MENA financial hub by proactively countering risks associated with rapid sector growth, enhancing investor confidence, and advancing the nationalization of critical financial expertise—factors essential for long-term economic resilience and competitiveness in fintech and banking innovation.
Looking Ahead
The partnership will deliver joint programs and events designed to fortify UAE’s financial ecosystem, positioning domestic institutions to anticipate and address future regulatory challenges while driving sustainable economic growth.
Sources: Zawya, Central Bank of the UAE, WAM
