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Explore the latest regulatory developments impacting Vulnerability, GCC cooperation, Capital Market Authority actions, Ramadan operational adjustments, and Cash Center Management protocols in the Middle East. This episode highlights critical cybersecurity issues, regional financial integration, capital market expansions, and important public consultations.
Regulatory news, updates, and insights for countries in the Middle East presented by the Carver Agents team
Welcome to Carver's Middle East Regulatory Updates for February 23, 2026.
The Kingdom of Bahrain recently hosted the 86th meeting of the Committee of the Central Bank Governors of the Gulf Cooperation Council, or GCC. This important gathering focused on enhancing regional cooperation in payment systems, banking supervision, fintech innovation, cybersecurity information exchange, and efforts to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. These discussions aim to strengthen financial stability and regulatory alignment across the GCC member states.
In Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Central Bank, known as S-A-M-A, has issued draft rules for public consultation concerning the management and operation of cash centers. These proposed regulations establish clear controls and standards to ensure proper supervision and operational integrity of cash handling facilities. The consultation period is open for 15 days, inviting feedback from stakeholders to help refine these important regulatory measures.
Turning to capital market developments, the Capital Market Authority, or C-M-A, has approved significant capital increases for two major Saudi institutions through the issuance of bonus shares. Al Rajhi Bank will increase its capital from 40 billion Saudi riyals to 60 billion by issuing one bonus share for every two existing shares, raising the total number of outstanding shares from 4 billion to 6 billion. Similarly, United International Holding Company will triple its capital from 250 million to 750 million Saudi riyals by issuing 47 bonus shares for every 25 existing shares, increasing outstanding shares from 25 million to 75 million. These capital boosts are expected to enhance the companies’ financial strength and support their growth strategies.
In the United Arab Emirates, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between Vietnam and the UAE came into force this February. This agreement eliminates tariffs on 95 percent of tariff lines and covers 99 percent of Vietnam’s export value, opening broader prospects for trade cooperation between the two countries. This development is set to boost bilateral trade and investment opportunities significantly.
The Qatar Financial Centre Regulatory Authority, or Q-F-C-R-A, has concluded an investigation into ECSC for arranging credit facilities without proper authorization. As a result, ECSC has been subjected to a financial penalty and ordered to cover investigation costs. This enforcement action underscores the regulator’s commitment to maintaining market integrity and protecting investors.
In Bahrain, the Central Bank has announced operating hours for banks and financial institutions during Ramadan 2026. These specified hours are designed to ensure regulated entities continue to provide essential services efficiently while respecting the holy month’s observances.
Meanwhile, the Agricultural Development Fund in Saudi Arabia has launched a public consultation to identify priority digital services needed on its electronic services portal. This initiative aims to enhance digital transformation and improve service delivery to the agricultural sector.
Indonesia and Saudi Arabia have strengthened their digital cooperation to improve the management of haj and umrah pilgrimages. This collaboration focuses on streamlining visa processing, accommodation management, healthcare services, and pilgrim monitoring systems, enhancing the overall experience for pilgrims.
Lastly, the Capital Market Authority has approved the public offering of the Namaa Waqf Fund managed by SNB Capital. Investors are advised to carefully review the fund’s terms and conditions before investing, as this offering complies with the Capital Market Law and its implementing regulations.
That concludes today’s regulatory updates from the Middle East. Thank you for listening to Carver's updates. For more details, visit us at carveragents.ai.