Technology

The UAE is poised to become the Middle East’s FinTech powerhouse, according to the newly released FinTech 2025 Report, jointly developed by Emirates NBD and PwC. Titled “From Code to Capital: The UAE’s FinTech Revolution”, the report was unveiled during the Dubai FinTech Summit 2025, offering a data-driven perspective on the UAE's evolving FinTech ecosystem.

The report highlights the UAE’s rapid FinTech acceleration, underscored by USD 265 million raised in 2024—accounting for nearly one-third of the country’s total startup funding. The local FinTech market is forecast to grow from USD 3.16 billion in 2024 to USD 5.71 billion by 2029, propelled by increased digital adoption, AI integration, investor interest, and regulatory innovation.

A FinTech Hub Powered by Innovation and Policy

Speaking on the report, Neeraj Makin, Group Head of Strategy, Analytics and Venture Capital at Emirates NBD, said:

“The UAE’s FinTech success reflects strong investor confidence, a diverse talent pool, and a maturing ecosystem. The country is well-positioned to attract greater investment and foster future FinTech leaders.”

Miguel Rio-Tinto, Group Chief Digital and Information Officer at Emirates NBD, emphasized the Bank’s role in shaping the future of financial services:

“We are proud to drive the FinTech revolution through partnerships, in-house innovation, and strategic investments. The report underscores how traditional banks can leverage FinTech to deliver better services and accelerate digital growth.”

AI as a Game-Changer in Financial Services

The report also explores the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence, highlighting its impact on personalisation, compliance, risk modeling, and operational efficiency. Emirates NBD’s transition to post-AI operations has delivered measurable improvements across its service and risk management infrastructure.

Key Trends and Strategic Recommendations

Among the report’s findings:

• 89% of UAE consumers now use digital-first bank accounts

• Open APIs, regulatory sandboxes, and co-branded innovation models are essential for sustained growth

• Strategic collaboration between banks, startups, and regulators is vital to maintaining momentum and innovation

• Market diversification and sustainability are emerging as future growth drivers

Stephen Anderson, Strategy Leader at PwC Middle East, commented:

“The UAE’s FinTech sector is being redefined by digital transformation and visionary strategies. Our collaboration with Emirates NBD captures the opportunities for public and private players to build a smarter, more connected financial future.”

Emirates NBD at the Forefront of Digital Banking

With assets of AED 1 trillion (approx. USD 272 billion) and operations in 13 countries, Emirates NBD continues to be a regional FinTech leader. The bank processes 97% of transactions digitally and operates Liv, the fastest-growing lifestyle digital bank in the region.

As a principal partner of COP28 and an early advocate of Dubai Can, the bank’s sustainability initiatives also reflect its broader role in shaping a resilient and inclusive financial ecosystem.

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