Officials and leaders from international banks, hedge funds, and global financial institutions operating in the UAE have affirmed that their operations and customer services continue uninterrupted and efficiently, despite the geopolitical tensions in the region. They highlighted that their business continuity plans and advanced technological infrastructure allow them to navigate market fluctuations and ensure clients have access to financial services and global markets under all circumstances.
They explained that their implemented business continuity plans (BCP) have been regularly tested and updated, enabling them to maintain the efficiency of both internal and external operations. These plans include backup data centers, advanced trading systems, and flexible risk management protocols, which ensure the continuous provision of services to clients around the clock.
Furthermore, banking systems and electronic trading platforms are operating effectively, with adequate liquidity in local markets, and ongoing settlement and cross-border financial transactions occurring without interruption.
This stance reflects the confidence that international financial institutions have in the robustness of the economic and institutional environment in the UAE, where companies and banks continue to offer services and manage operations normally, benefiting from regulatory stability and efficient financial infrastructure. It also suggests the UAE’s capacity to maintain financial and commercial activities, even amid rapid regional developments.
Ongoing Operations
Rola Abou Mena, CEO of Standard Chartered for the UAE, Middle East, and Pakistan, stated, “Our operations in the UAE and across the region continue to function normally, with our systems running efficiently and our teams providing support to clients while ensuring service continuity.” She added, “The safety and security of our employees are our top priorities; therefore, we take appropriate precautionary measures in accordance with official guidelines while ensuring our service to clients remains uninterrupted. Our teams are closely working with clients across the region, assisting them in tracking market developments and navigating short-term volatility in a rapidly changing environment.”
She further noted, “Amid current regional developments, the UAE continues to demonstrate significant institutional and economic stability, which is evident in the strength of its institutions and the clarity of its regulatory frameworks, coupled with the readiness of its infrastructure and the efficiency of its financial system. This is reflected in the ability of institutions and companies to conduct their business as usual and in the uninterrupted flow of trade and financial services.”
Abou Mena emphasized that these established foundations have contributed over the years to creating a business environment characterized by high levels of trust and stability, allowing financial institutions and international companies to continue their operations and serve their clients effectively, even during regional developments. HSBC also stated that the safety and security of their colleagues and clients remain their top priority, and they are committed to following the government’s guidelines regarding operational arrangements in affected countries, with plans in place to ensure services continue as usual while monitoring ongoing developments closely.
Commitment to Guidelines
Similarly, Swiss private bank Lombard Odier commented, “We are closely monitoring developments in the region and affirm our commitment to the directives issued by relevant authorities, continuing our customary activities normally, while ensuring that we provide services to our clients and safeguard our employees.”
Global asset management firm BlackRock stated, “We are currently focused on ensuring the safety of our employees and clients, providing them with necessary support while adhering to local guidelines and regulations to maintain secure environments.” Citibank noted, “The safety of our employees is our utmost priority, and we continue to take necessary measures to ensure their safety and that of their families while providing our services as usual, with effective emergency and response plans in place.”
Essential Services
Hamza Dweik, Head of Trading for the MENA region at Saxo Bank, stated, “We confirm that our operational activities are fully ongoing without any interruption, and all our essential services are available despite the current market fluctuations. Our trading platforms are functioning normally, enabling clients to access global markets, manage their positions, and execute trades without restrictions.” Dweik added that trading remains fully accessible, allowing clients to operate as usual in these volatile conditions, and their technological infrastructure is designed to ensure reliable performance during periods of intensified market activity, assuring stability and quality execution while maintaining uninterrupted access across all platforms.
He continued, “Customer support is a primary focus during uncertain times; our customer service teams are available 24/5, ready to answer any inquiries related to trading, platforms, or market conditions. We encourage our clients to reach out whenever they need support or clarification.”
Confidence in the UAE Economy
The stance of international financial institutions reflects their confidence in the UAE’s robust economic and regulatory environment, which serves as a regional and global financial hub. These institutions benefit from a sophisticated regulatory framework overseen by well-established authorities, such as the Central Bank of the UAE, in addition to the advanced infrastructure found in major financial centers like the Dubai International Financial Centre and the Abu Dhabi Global Market.
Financial experts noted that the UAE, due to its diversified economy and connections to global markets, possesses a high capacity to absorb shocks, benefiting from flexible monetary and fiscal policies, strong reserves, and a banking sector with high levels of capitalization and liquidity.
This performance demonstrates that the financial sector in the UAE not only maintains internal stability but also continues to play a crucial role in facilitating capital flows and international trade, thereby enhancing confidence among regional and international investors alike.