With financial hardship expected to be a constant challenge for residents and businesses of smaller establishments in the UAE during 2026, the State has rolled out a remarkable plan to provide financial aid of Rs 2.2 billion (US$ 620 million). The scheme is being launched by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) as an instant solution for individuals and SMEs facing the challenge of higher costs of living, repaying debts and slower growth in business activities.
The rollout of the package is already underway via UAE financial institutions and hundreds of thousands of residents and businesses will benefit. It can come in various types of support, from interest relief to payment holidays, and will also help safeguard the borrowers’ credit score.
The 2026 support package is meant for UAE residents as well as SMEs, and here is all the information they should know about it and whether they qualify.
What Is the UAE Dh6.2 Billion Support Package?
The Dh6.2 billion financial relief package is established to assist residents and businesses in economic difficulties and market fluctuations times, to elevate the financial burden and increase liquidity of households and SMEs throughout the UAE.
The package is targeted and not universal. This has a focus on sectors and individuals which are seen as financially vulnerable based on the current economic situation. UAE banks are also making a point of communicating directly with CBUAE to rapidly process applications and provide relief measures.
Who is eligible for the Support Package?
The eligibility depends on the business performance and on the level of debt as well as the employment sector. The scheme is particularly targeting workers in the hospitality and tourism sectors and those in transport and logistics, among the highest priority groups for the scheme.
People who are paying more than 50% of their income towards their loan each month can also apply for assistance. This includes individuals whose commissions have been cut or whose financing has changed where the financing costs have increased or their salaries have been restructured.
The package is designed to benefit SMEs, those businesses that are registered in the UAE with a yearly turnover of less than AED 50 million. Businesses that have temporarily reduced cash flows and/or liquidity may access help provided by the Participating Banks.
What Financial Reliefs are Being Offered?
There are various types of financial help available in the package depending upon the situation of the applicant. The biggest advantage is that the three to six-month payment break on loans and financing agreements.
In addition, some of the homeowners could qualify for interest-only payment choices, which decreases the monetary strain each month. Low interest working capital solutions and temporary exemption from paying interest are available for SMEs.
Most important of all is that any relief received via the package will not adversely affect a borrower’s Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB) rating. This ensures that residents aren’t exposed to adverse future impacts to their financial lives.
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How to Check If You Are Eligible?
A number of banks in the UAE are already reaching out to prospective borrowers who may be eligible for a loan. This will be updated on the residents’ mobile texts, emails and mobile banking alerts.
Applicants may be able to check their eligibility using the Sannif platform, which is connected to the CBUAE, with input of their Emirates ID and banking information. Alternatively, exit the app and reach out directly to the bank and ask for their “CBUAE Resilience Desk.”
The finance pros are urging residents not to wait because there is expected to be a major boost in the number of support requests over the next few weeks.
Why Does This Support Package Matters?
The Dh6.2bn plan is anticipated to benefit almost 60,000 residents and over 4,300 SMEs in UAE. The package could provide breathing room for many families and businesses during an economically tough time.
This strengthens credit scores, reduces the burden on repayment, promotes economic resiliency and long-term recovery and continuity of business.
FAQs
Who can benefit from the UAE Dh6.2 bn support package?
The support package could be available to residents who work in priority industries, have high debt load to income ratios and to small & medium enterprises whose short-term finances are compromised.
Will deferring loans have a negative impact on my credit?
The reporting of no. relief for the package will be reported as a default to the Al Etihad Credit Bureau.
How to determine if I am eligible?
You can check through your bank notifications, the Sannif platform or by contacting your bank’s dedicated resilience support team.
Is there a package that includes SMEs?
Yes. UAE-registered SMEs with annual revenues of less than AED 50 million will be considered for various support measures, such as liquidity support and interest relief.
Does everyone who resides in the UAE have access to the package?
No. The package of support is aimed at directly affected individuals and businesses who have been impacted by this and who are eligible.
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