Emirates Development Bank (EDB) set a financing target of AED 23 bn for 2025 to support economic diversification and sustainable development in the UAE, according to a press release. Significant allocations will be directed toward manufacturing, advanced technology, renewable energy, and SMEs. The lender also aims to expand industrial co-lending partnerships and accelerate digital transformation initiatives.

In 2024, EDB reported a record 222% y-o-y increase in financing, reaching AED 8.7 bn. This contributed AED 4.1 bn to the UAE’s industrial GDP and facilitated the creation of over 14k jobs. The bank has deployed AED 15.7 bn in financing since launching its transformational strategy in 2021, bringing its total industrial GDP impact to AED 7.4 bn.

By the sector: Manufacturing remained the largest beneficiary of EDB’s financing last year, receiving AED 4.2 bn, which accounted for nearly half of total lending. The bank directed AED 3 bn into advanced technology, while AED 1.2 bn went to renewable energy projects aligned with the UAE’s net zero ambitions. The food security sector saw some AED 1.2 bn in financing, and the healthcare sector saw 1.1 bn.

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (mSMEs) remained a key priority, with EDB allocating AED 3 bn in financing to support their growth. This included AED 758 mn through the Credit Guarantee Scheme in partnership with 11 commercial banks, AED 2.1 bn in direct financing, and AED 107 mn for SME-micro projects aimed at ramping up financial inclusion.

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