Photo Credit: WAM
Dubai, UAE — February 2026 — The Central Bank of the UAE and the Internal Auditors Association have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the business environment and modernizing regulatory frameworks within the nation’s financial sector.
According to the Emirates News Agency, a Memorandum of Understanding formalizing the collaboration was signed at the CBUAE headquarters in Abu Dhabi. Ibraheem Al Sayed Mohamed Al Hashemi, assistant governor for the Executive Office and secretary-general of the Board of Directors at CBUAE, signed on behalf of the Central Bank, while Abdulqader Obaid Ali, chairman of the UAE IAA, signed for the association. The ceremony was attended by senior officials from both organizations.
The agreement is designed to elevate the standard of financial oversight across the UAE by embedding the highest international internal auditing practices. It paves the way for launching innovative initiatives to refine supervision systems and update corporate governance frameworks, thereby bolstering confidence in financial transactions and ensuring alignment with global best practices.
A key pillar of the partnership is its focus on human capital. The two entities will collaborate on specialized programs to enhance the skills of UAE nationals, accelerating the Emiratisation of auditing roles within financial institutions. The MoU also facilitates the exchange of expertise and information, and includes plans to organize joint events aimed at promoting a robust culture of internal oversight throughout the country’s companies and institutions.
Following the signing, Al Hashemi stated: “This MoU embodies CBUAE’s commitment to the vision of our wise leadership towards pioneering the UAE financial sector.”
He went on saying: “At the CBUAE, we are keen on integrating efforts with all partners to develop professional institutions, modernize work mechanisms, and build specialised national capabilities. Strengthening the culture of financial supervision is a fundamental pillar in making our financial institutions active partners in the sustainable growth and economic prosperity in the UAE.”
Ali expressed his pride in the strategic alliance, describing it as a significant step forward for the internal auditing profession in the country. “Through this collaboration, we aim to empower Emirati auditors and provide them with the latest tools and knowledge that match global standards.”
Ali added: “This synergy ensures the enhancement of national institutions’ capabilities, enabling them to anticipate future challenges with confidence and efficiency.”
