The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has signed a cooperation agreement with Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), marking the first partnership under the newly launched “Retail Sukuk” initiative. This initiative aims to make it easier and more secure for UAE citizens and residents to invest in UAE Government Islamic Treasury Sukuk through innovative digital platforms.
Under the agreement, individual investors in the UAE can now access and invest in Islamic Treasury Sukuk (T-Sukuk) via ADIB’s “Smart Sukuk” platform. The platform allows investors to buy fractional Sukuk in smaller denominations, supporting the Ministry’s efforts to broaden the investor base and promote financial inclusion across the UAE.
Through the platform, investors can start with a minimum investment of AED 4,000, in multiples of AED 4,000, up to AED 28,000 per transaction, with the flexibility to make multiple transactions. UAE nationals and residents holding a valid Emirates ID or UAE PASS can complete their registration online, fulfil KYC requirements, and create a personal risk profile directly on the platform. Investors can also review Sukuk terms and transaction details in a simple and transparent digital format.
His Excellency Younis Haji AlKhoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, said that the agreement with Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank represents the first step in implementing the Retail Sukuk initiative. He emphasized that this move reflects the Ministry’s commitment to advancing the leadership’s vision of economic empowerment and promoting a culture of saving and sustainable investment. He added that the partnership with ADIB exemplifies successful collaboration between the public and private sectors in developing innovative, government-backed financial instruments that support sustainable economic growth.
His Excellency AlKhoori also highlighted that the agreement provides individuals with a fully digital and Sharia-compliant investment experience that is simple, secure, and designed to promote financial stability for families and the wider community.
Commenting on the partnership, His Excellency Jawaan Awaidah Al Khaili, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, said that ADIB is proud to be the first partner in this pioneering programme, which expands investment opportunities for a wider range of investors. He noted that by bridging the gap between institutional and retail markets, the initiative enables everyone to invest in high-quality, low-risk, government-backed Sukuk. He added that this collaboration reinforces ADIB’s commitment to innovation, financial inclusion, and the continued growth of Islamic finance in line with the UAE’s strategic vision.
All Sukuk issued by the Ministry will be listed on the platform—excluding those nearing maturity—without the need for additional regulatory approvals. ADIB will offer Retail Sukuk from its existing Sukuk positions through primary allocations or secondary market transactions. The bank will also organize awareness and educational sessions, introduce a dedicated FAQs section, and conduct regular investor surveys to ensure a transparent and user-friendly investment experience.
The Ministry of Finance confirmed that this agreement marks the first phase of a broader framework of partnerships with national banks participating in the Retail Sukuk initiative. The initiative aims to broaden access to Islamic Treasury Sukuk, promote financial literacy, and instill a culture of saving and financial responsibility as a cornerstone of long-term financial sustainability in the UAE.
The Ministry added that the digital platforms of participating banks will allow investors to view detailed Sukuk information, including profit distributions, maturity dates, applicable fees, and early redemption options. A transparent regulatory framework and preferential fee structure have also been adopted to strengthen investor confidence and encourage broader participation in the UAE’s Islamic finance ecosystem.