The UAE Ministry of Finance has unveiled ‘Retail Sukuk’, a groundbreaking new initiative that allows individuals, both citizens and residents, to invest directly in Shariah-compliant, government-backed Treasury Sukuk (T-Sukuk).

For the first time, everyday investors can now access these secure, sovereign-backed instruments through fractionalised digital investment platforms operated by participating UAE banks, with the minimum investment starting at just Dh4,000.

Empowering the community through smart, inclusive finance

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance, said the ‘Retail Sukuk’ marks a new chapter in the nation’s financial journey.

“This initiative opens new horizons for citizens and residents to contribute to shaping the future through secure, government-backed investment instruments,” he said.

It transforms investment in government bonds into an accessible digital experience, empowering everyone to participate in long-term savings and national growth.”

What is T-Sukuk

The Ministry confirmed that the T-Sukuk are fully Shariah-compliant, previously available only to institutional investors. Now open to all UAE residents, they provide a secure and stable savings tool backed by the government, promoting financial literacy and responsible saving habits.

Linked to dirham-denominated, market-traded T-Sukuk, the Retail Sukuk give individuals access to the same sovereign-grade assets held by large investors, all via user-friendly digital platforms.

The Ministry will announce the first participating bank on November 3, with more details on registration and investment channels to follow.

A new era of financial empowerment

By bridging technology, inclusion, and Islamic finance, the Retail Sukuk initiative represents a major milestone in democratising investment opportunities, enabling every resident to participate in the UAE’s economic growth story safely and transparently.

Motorists in Sharjah, take note: starting November 1, new lane rules will come into effect across the emirate’s major and secondary roads.

In cooperation with the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA), the Sharjah Police General Command has announced that specific lanes will now be designated for motorcycles, delivery bikes, heavy vehicles, and buses. The move is aimed at improving traffic flow, enhancing safety, and making better use of the emirate’s road network.

According to police officials, the rightmost lane on all main roads will be reserved for heavy goods vehicles and buses.

• On four-lane roads, motorcycles can use the third and fourth lanes on the right.
• On three-lane roads, they can ride in the middle or right-hand lane.
• On two-lane roads, they must stay in the right lane only.

To ensure compliance, smart radars, cameras, and patrols will monitor vehicles around the clock. Any violations will be penalised according to the Federal Traffic Law:

• Article 8: Dh1,500 fine and 12 black points for heavy vehicles not keeping to mandatory lanes.
• Article 70: Dh500 fine for failure to follow traffic signs or instructions.

The Sharjah Police urged all drivers and riders to follow the new rules and use the lanes designated for their vehicle type. Officials said the regulation is part of broader efforts to promote road safety, reduce congestion, and improve overall quality of life in Sharjah.

With preparations underway for Hajj 2026, UAE authorities have issued a reminder for all pilgrims to strictly follow the health and safety requirements set by both the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat (Awqaf UAE) emphasised that the well-being of pilgrims remains a top national priority, ensuring every journey to the holy sites is safe, organised, and spiritually fulfilling.

Health Requirements for Hajj 2026

Pilgrims must be medically fit to perform Hajj and free from certain conditions that could pose risks during the pilgrimage. Those with the following health issues will not be cleared to travel:

• Major organ failure or any physical condition preventing Hajj rituals
• Neurological or psychological disorders affecting cognition
• Old age accompanied by dementia
• Pregnancy during the last three months
• Active infectious diseases such as tuberculosis or hemorrhagic fevers
• Active cancer cases undergoing chemotherapy or similar treatments

Mandatory Vaccinations

All pilgrims are required to complete their immunisations well before Hajj, including:

• Meningitis and seasonal influenza vaccines
• Covid 19 and other recommended vaccines based on individual health conditions

Awqaf UAE confirmed it will review the results of all medical examinations in coordination with the country’s health authorities to ensure each pilgrim meets the approved standards.

Record Number of Applicants

This year saw an impressive 72,000 applications submitted via the official Awqaf UAE app and website before the October 9 deadline. The authority has already begun reviewing applications, and those who receive preliminary approval will be contacted directly to complete their final registration within the specified timelines.

The UAE has called on all pilgrims to fully comply with the health guidelines issued by both countries, ensuring that Hajj 2026 is performed in a safe, healthy, and spiritually enriching environment.