EDB and RAKBank unveil Dh1 billion fund to boost mSMEs
In a major boost for UAE-based micro, small and medium enterprises (mSMEs), Emirates Development Bank (EDB) and RAKBank have announced the launch of a co-financing partnership totalling Dh1 billion to catalyse growth in national priority sectors.
The initiative was unveiled at the Make it in the Emirates Forum, in Abu Dhabi.
This strategic collaboration marks one of the largest mSME-dedicated co-lending programmes of its kind in the region, designed to improve access to capital for businesses operating in manufacturing, advanced technology, food security, renewables, and healthcare — the UAE's most critical growth sectors.
Backed by a 50/50 contribution – Dh500 million from EDB and Dh500 million from RAKBank – the fund will be channelled through RAKBank to deliver tailored financing solutions for mSMEs across the UAE, with a strong focus on supporting businesses in the Northern Emirates and greenfield ventures.
The co-financing structure gives mSMEs access to liquidity at competitive rates and also sets clear impact benchmarks, including percentage allocation for businesses based in the Northern Emirates (RAK, UAQ, Fujairah) national owned business and prioritisation for manufacturing and greenfield ventures.
Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of Emirates Development Bank, said: 'This partnership with RAKBank is a powerful example of what Make it in the Emirates was designed to achieve — coordinated national action that turns industrial ambition into reality. At EDB, we've committed more than Dh18.8 billion in financing since 2021 to accelerate economic transformation, and we know from experience that unlocking mSME growth is one of the most effective ways to strengthen our industrial base. This Dh1 billion co-financing platform is a signal that we are serious about empowering the entrepreneurs and manufacturers who will lead our economy into its next chapter.'
Raheel Ahmed, Group CEO of RAKBank, added: 'At RAKBank, we have always believed that mSMEs are the backbone of the UAE economy. This Dh1 billion partnership fund is a bold step forward in our commitment to serve them better. By joining forces with Emirates Development Bank, we're not just unlocking capital — we're creating real opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow, scale, and contribute to a more dynamic and sustainable national economy.'
The agreement reflects a broader effort by both institutions to deepen mSME support, foster economic diversification, and align with the UAE's industrial strategy and national development goals. The fund will be deployed within 12 months of the agreement, with RAKBank overseeing risk underwriting and portfolio management, while providing monthly performance reports to EDB. Both institutions will collaborate on outreach, awareness, and stakeholder engagement to maximise visibility and impact.
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