Posted inBanking & Insurance

CBUAE Issues Guidance Note for Ethical Use of AI in the Financial Sector 

CBUAE issues AI guidance to boost consumer protection, transparency, governance and responsible financial innovation in the UAE.

UAE Central Bank
UAE Central Bank

The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) has issued a guidance note on the consumer protection and responsible adoption and use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning by licensed financial institutions operating in the UAE. The move reflects the CBUAE’s proactive supervisory approach and its commitment to keeping pace with rapid developments in digital transformation and smart financial services. 

It aims to establish a clear framework to guide financial institutions in the safe and responsible deployment of these technologies, ensuring that consumer rights are safeguarded, governance and transparency principles are strengthened, whilst fair and sustainable practices are promoted. 

H.E. Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE, said: “The guidance note aims to establish a clear framework for the responsible use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in the financial sector, in a way that enhances consumer protection, reinforces governance and transparency principles, and emphasises the importance of human oversight and data protection requirements.” 

The Guidance sets out core principles that serve as a reference for the optimal use of such technologies: including governance and accountability, fairness and non-discrimination, transparency and explain ability, effective human oversight, as well as requirements relating to data management and privacy. 

Through the Guidance, the CBUAE emphasises its commitment to fostering trust in financial innovation by striking a clear balance between enabling technological advancement, ensuring consumer protection, and maintaining financial stability.

The Note aligns with the UAE’s national strategy for AI and applies to all licensed financial institutions within the supervisory ecosystem, supporting the sustainability of the financial sector.  

Stay Up to Date with the Latest Updates at Finance ME!

Top 30 GCC CFOs for 2026

Kuwait Placed on Financial Crime Grey List Amid AML Concerns

Talking Transition: Tobias Maier’s Move from CFO to CEO