UAE enhances regulatory framework for banks' real estate exposure

The UAE Central Bank has drawn up tighter regulations to supervise local banks’ exposure to the real estate sector.

The new standards will ensure the adoption of best practices in real estate financing and risk management.

They cover all types of on-balance-sheet loans and investments, and all off-balance-sheet exposures to the real estate sector.

The latest rules will take effect from December 30, starting with a one-year observation period, during which banks will be required to enhance their practices to meet the new criteria.

The comprehensive standards require banks to review and improve their internal policies to enhance sound underwriting, valuation and general risk management for their real estate exposures.

Asad Ahmed, Managing Director at the consulting firm Alvarez & Marsal, spoke to Dubai Eye 103.8's The Business Breakfast about the changes.