RAKBANK recently reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to the UAE’s SME sector, announcing a series of measures aimed at strengthening business resilience, maintaining credit flow and enabling growth during a period of heightened global uncertainty.
Industry sources affirmed that the bank has committed approximately AED 2 billion in additional credit limits for both existing-to-bank and new-to-bank customers, spanning secured lending, term loans, trade finance and working capital solutions.
Industry sources further added that for the five decades, RAKBANK has operated on one core mandate: if it doesn’t drive SME growth, it won’t build it. Having empowered over 250,000 UAE businesses, the bank delivers more than just banking—by offering the strategic agility and proactive liquidity essential for navigating today’s complex trade flows and cash cycles.
Demonstrating its commitment to business continuity, RAKBANK has extended critical relief to segments facing immediate financial headwinds. To date, the Bank has granted deferrals to roughly 1,700 corporate clients with an exposure of AED 2.2 billion, alongside 2,320 retail SMEs holding AED 680 million in outstanding debt. To bridge the financing gap for micro-enterprises, RAKBANK maintains robust collaborations with Emirates Development Bank and Dubai SME, utilizing government-backed credit guarantees to ensure a steady flow of trade, working capital, and term loan facilities.
Vishal Shah, Managing Director & Head of Business Banking Group, stated “SMEs are the backbone of the UAE economy, and our role is to stand with them, especially in uncertain times. We are keeping credit flowing, providing relief where needed and making it easier for businesses to operate and grow. In Q1 2026 alone, we onboarded over 4,100 entrepreneurs and disbursed AED 1.4 billion in loans. This is not a short-term response. It reflects who we are, a bank that stays open for business and helps our customers turn their ambitions into reality.”
Industry sources further confirmed that Beyond financing, RAKBANK delivers day-to-day value to SMEs through a blend of high-yield rewards and operational efficiency. By offering up to 2% interest on account balances, waiving domestic transfer fees, and providing FX cashback, the bank directly bolsters small business bottom lines.
Operational Speed & Digital Innovation
- Rapid Onboarding: Multi-partner businesses can now open accounts within 48 hours.
- Modern Payments: Integrated QR code capabilities streamline daily transactions.
- Strategic Alignment: These initiatives support UAE Central Bank priorities, fostering financial resilience and long-term economic continuity.
RAKBANK remains committed, relationship-led partner, ensuring SMEs have the capital and digital tools necessary to scale efficiently.
