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- UAE Reassures Banking Stability; Dubai Airports CEO Confident; 2PointZero x Whoop
UAE Reassures Banking Stability; Dubai Airports CEO Confident; 2PointZero x Whoop
Friday, March 6, 2026
Happy and Safe Friday everyone!
Resilience is emerging as the defining theme across the UAE’s economy today. The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates has reassured the public that the country’s banking sector remains strong and fully operational, with Governor Khaled Mohamed Balama highlighting robust capital and liquidity levels. In aviation, Paul Griffiths praised frontline teams at Dubai Airports as flights gradually resume following recent disruptions. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi-based 2PointZero Group is expanding its global footprint with a new investment in US wearable health tech company Whoop, underscoring the UAE’s continued push into innovation and international markets.
In the wake of developments in the region, we hope everyone stays safe. At this critical moment, it is essential to remain united and follow guidance issued by official authorities from your country.
Markets
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UAE Banking Sector Demonstrates Highest Levels Of Resilience And Stability, Central Bank Governor Says
What Is It About?
The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates has reassured the public that the country’s financial system remains strong, liquid and fully operational despite regional geopolitical tensions. Governor Khaled Mohamed Balama said banks, financial institutions and insurance companies across the United Arab Emirates continue to operate normally, delivering services efficiently and without disruption nationwide.
Why it Matters?
The central bank highlighted that the UAE’s financial sector is well capitalised and supported by strong regulatory oversight. The banking system maintains a capital adequacy ratio of about 17 percent and a Liquidity Coverage Ratio above 146.6 percent—both well above global regulatory requirements. Total assets in the sector have surpassed Dh5.42 trillion, reinforcing the UAE’s position as one of the region’s leading financial hubs.
What’s Next?
The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates said it will continue close coordination with financial institutions and relevant authorities to monitor developments and ensure operational readiness. Ongoing regulatory supervision, stress testing and risk management frameworks will remain central to maintaining stability as the UAE works to ensure uninterrupted banking services and sustained confidence in its financial system.
Dubai Airports CEO Praises Staff Resilience As Flights Gradually Resume After Disruptions
What Is It About?
The CEO of Dubai Airports, Paul Griffiths, praised airport staff for their professionalism and resilience as Dubai begins a limited resumption of flights following recent disruptions. In a LinkedIn post, Griffiths said senior leaders had been on the ground supporting frontline teams during the recovery phase. He emphasized that the safety of passengers, staff and partners at Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport remains the top priority.
Why It Matters?
Dubai operates one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, and disruptions can ripple across global travel networks. Griffiths said the past few days had been “unprecedented,” but credited collaboration across the airport community for maintaining operations under pressure. He also thanked the leadership of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates for swift action and clear direction that prioritised safety and enabled a coordinated response during a critical period.
What’s Next?
Flights are gradually resuming as operations stabilise, though schedules may continue to evolve. Griffiths urged passengers and stakeholders to stay informed through official updates as recovery efforts continue. With staff working on the ground to restore normal operations, Dubai Airports is focused on ensuring a smooth and safe return to regular air travel while maintaining its reputation for operational resilience and customer safety.
Abu Dhabi’s 2PointZero Subsidiary Acquires Stake In US Health Tech Firm Whoop
What Is It About?
A subsidiary of Abu Dhabi-listed 2PointZero Group has acquired an undisclosed stake in US health technology company Whoop, a maker of subscription-based wearable fitness and health monitoring platforms. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed. Founded in 2005, Whoop has raised more than $400 million from investors including SoftBank Vision Fund, IVP, and GP Bullhound.
Why It Matters?
Backed by International Holding Company (IHC), 2PointZero was formed through the merger of Multiply Group, Ghitha Holding, and 2PointZero’s existing assets, creating a diversified investment platform spanning energy, mining, and financial services. The investment signals Abu Dhabi’s growing interest in the fast-expanding global health technology and wearable devices sector, which is attracting institutional capital as digital health monitoring becomes increasingly mainstream.
What’s Next?
The deal comes as 2PointZero reports strong financial momentum. The group posted FY2025 net profit of AED3.6 billion and revenue of AED7 billion, reflecting a 311 percent year-on-year surge following the merger and consolidation of businesses including Tendam and Ghitha. With continued digital transformation initiatives and global investments, the group is expected to expand its portfolio further while leveraging new technologies to drive growth across its sectors.
👨💻From Smashi Business’ Desk
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🦄 World of Startups
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🔍In other news…
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🗓️ Plan Your Events (March-April 2026)
UAE
31 March - 2 April (Tuesday-Thursday): Arab Media Summit, Dubai.
26-28 March (Thursday-Saturday): Social Capital Conference, Dubai.
7-9 April (Tuesday-Thursday): Future Health Summit, Adnec Center Abu Dhabi.
13-15 April (Monday-Wednesday): AIM Congress, Dubai World Trade Center.
14-16 April: (Tuesday-Thursday): the International Property Show, Dubai World Trade Center.
Saudi Arabia
13-16 April (Monday-Thursday): Leap Tech Conference, Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Center - Malham.
20-22 April (Monday-Wednesday): Sports Investment Forum (SIF), Riyadh
Egypt
30 March – 1 April (Monday-Wednesday): Egypt International Energy Conference and Exhibition (EGYPES).
