RAKBANK has outlined measures to support the UAE’s SME sector, focusing on maintaining credit flow, strengthening business resilience and supporting growth amid ongoing global uncertainty.

The bank, which has supported SMEs for more than five decades and served over 250,000 businesses in the UAE, said SME banking remains central to its strategy.

It added that it is taking proactive steps as businesses navigate shifting trade conditions and cash flow pressures.

RAKBANK has allocated around AED 2 billion in additional credit limits for both existing and new customers.

This covers secured lending, term loans, trade finance and working capital solutions.

It has also introduced targeted relief for customers facing short-term financial pressure. Around 1,700 trade and working capital customers, with total limits of AED 2.2 billion, have received payment deferrals.

In addition, 2,320 retail business lending customers with outstanding balances of AED 680 million have also been granted relief.

The bank continues to use credit guarantee schemes in partnership with Emirates Development Bank and Dubai SME to support lending for micro and small enterprises across trade, working capital and term loan facilities.

Vishal Shah, Managing Director and Head of Business Banking Group, said:

“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.”

Beyond lending, RAKBANK said SME customers receive up to 2% per annum interest on account balances, waived fees on domestic transfers, and cashback on foreign exchange transactions.

It also highlighted digital services including QR code payments and a fully digital onboarding process enabling account opening within 48 hours.

Featured image credit: RAKBANK press release