UAE banking leaders are urging for deeper collaboration between regulators, private entities, and financial institutions to translate the nation’s Islamic Finance and Halal Industry Strategy into tangible market growth. During the recent "From Legislation to Growth and Innovation" conference, experts highlighted the transition from establishing a robust regulatory framework to creating practical financial products. With the UAE holding the third-place global ranking in Islamic finance, officials are focused on leveraging this foundation to support the real economy, with a target of reaching Dh2.56 trillion in local Islamic assets by 2031.

On a broader scale, the industry is experiencing rapid expansion, with global Islamic finance assets expected to surge from $6.5 trillion in 2025 to $10.5 trillion by 2030. The UAE remains a critical player in this trajectory, particularly in the green finance sector, where ESG sukuk issuance has grown significantly to represent nearly a quarter of the global market. To sustain this momentum, the conference concluded with a call to prioritize digital innovation, enhance SME support, and foster stronger public-private partnerships, cementing the country’s status as a central hub for the global halal economy.