Abu Dhabi:The UAE has solidified its status as a prominent global capital investment destination, according to remarks by Waleed Saeed Al Awadhi, Chief Executive Officer of the UAE Capital Market Authority (CMA), at the AFCM Annual Conference - Abu Dhabi 2026. He emphasized the UAE's ability to provide a secure and appealing environment for investors, both in the short and long term.
According to Emirates News Agency, Al Awadhi highlighted the resilience of the UAE's economy and the development of its legislative and regulatory framework as key factors in its strengthened position. He noted the UAE's effectiveness in adapting to changing conditions and the implementation of measures to enhance competitiveness while maintaining alignment with global standards.
During the conference, Al Awadhi discussed the increasing sophistication of global capital in assessing and pricing risks, as well as the shift in perceptions of geopolitical risk among investors. Meetings with asset managers, banks, and financial institutions in various global markets revealed that investors are now better equipped to evaluate and incorporate such risks into their investment decisions.
The diversity of the UAE market, spanning sectors like real estate and energy, offers a wide range of investment opportunities. Al Awadhi emphasized the importance of capital-market resilience, which relies on a comprehensive ecosystem involving regulatory response, investor access to information, and market transparency.
Recent unprecedented developments in the region have led the CMA to adopt innovative measures tailored to market needs. The Authority also emphasizes ongoing regulatory reform to keep pace with economic and financial market changes, eliminating regulatory 'blind spots' through innovation and collaboration with industry participants.
The CMA's issuance of the Virtual Assets Framework in April 2026 exemplifies its commitment to fostering innovation while safeguarding investors. Al Awadhi underscored the significance of regulatory predictability and clarity, achieved through international cooperation and dialogue with domestic market participants.
The CMA aims to support economic development by ensuring that regulatory reforms are implemented gradually and in consultation with market participants. Al Awadhi concluded by highlighting the importance of international relationships among regulators to enhance capital flows and increase international listings in the UAE.