Governance & Sustainability
The Corporate Governance and Sustainability Department ensures adherence to global governance standards, including BSI 13500 and IMF’s Central Bank Transparency Code. It also ensures alignment of the sustainability framework with international best practices, implements relevant policies, and conducts periodic assessments. The department promotes awareness and maturity of corporate governance and sustainability values across CBUAE, reinforcing its commitment to ethical and transparent operations.
Governance Framework
As the steward of monetary policy, financial stability, and regulatory oversight, CBUAE is committed to upholding the highest corporate governance standards and serving as a model for all the Licensed Financial Institutions (LFIs) in the UAE. CBUAE is committed to the continuous improvement and adoption of globally recognized corporate governance principles. The corporate Governance Framework of CBUAE is spearheaded by the Board of Directors and supported by committees at both the board and executive levels. The corporate Governance framework enables CBUAE to uphold the rule of law and establish the principles of fairness, equality, accountability, and transparency under the able stewardship of the CG&S Department in CBUAE.
Governance Pillars
CBUAE, entrusted with safeguarding financial stability and public trust, adheres to the four fundamental pillars of corporate governance: accountability, fairness, equality, and transparency. Recognising the interdependence of these pillars, CBUAE integrates them into a unified system to safeguard financial integrity.
Governance Structure
CBUAE maintains a robust and effective corporate governance framework that aligns with leading global practices. This framework is built on a clear structure of governing entities and executive management, as illustrated below- each with distinct roles and responsibilities that collectively ensure sound oversight and strategic direction.
Delegation of Authority
CBUAE has a board-approved ‘Delegation of Authority (DOA) and Signatory Power Manual’, which serves as an integral part of its corporate governance and internal control system. The DOA implements corporate governance and accountability practices by outlining authorisation guidelines at appropriate levels for decisions that may have a financial, strategic, and reputational implications for CBUAE. It empowers delegates to exercise effective supervision of subordinates, ensuring that decisions are consistently prudent, standardised, and aligned with the public interest.
The DoA is designed to achieve the following core objectives:
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Ensure adequate authority is granted to the relevant positions or governing bodies to facilitate prudent and efficient decision-making.
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Align assigned authority with the duties and responsibilities of each position or governing body.
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Promote segregation of duties to enhance operational efficiency and ensure proper governance in place.
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Base delegated authority on relevant provisions of applicable law(s) and CBUAE’s delegation framework.
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Ensure authorised positions or governing bodies understand their obligations and responsibilities when making decisions on behalf of CBUAE.
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In case of any conflict of interest, escalate decision-making to higher authorities.
Three Lines Model
CBUAE has adopted the Three Lines Model to reinforce corporate governance, internal controls, and risk management. By establishing clear lines of accountability and oversight across the First-Line Operations, the model ensures that risks are proactively managed and controls remain effective. This structured approach provides the Board of Directors and Senior Management with independent assurance, enabling informed decision-making and promoting a culture of transparency and accountability.
Internal Audit
The purpose of Internal Audit Division is to contribute to the achievement of CBUAE's objectives by providing independent, objective assurance and advisory services that assess the effectiveness of governance, risk management, and internal controls. The Division is dedicated to improve, enhance and safeguard the organisation's value, and to provide valuable advice, insights and foresight recommendations to the management.
Internal Audit Division maintains a quality assurance and improvement program (QAIP) that covers all aspects of the Internal Audit Function. The programme includes an evaluation of the Internal Audit Division’s conformity with GIAS.
The function’s vision is to become a trusted advisor in key business initiatives, and to be recognised as a driving force behind CBUAE’s culture. The Internal Audit Division operates independently and objectively in full conformance with the Global Internal Audit Standards issued by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).
Organisational Chart
CBUAE's organisational chart serves as a vital element of its governance framework, clearly outlining business verticals and lines of authority. This structure facilitates informed and efficient decision-making, ensuring accountability and transparency, under the Board's comprehensive oversight.
Corporate Governance and Sustainability Department
The Corporate Governance and Sustainability Department is responsible for upholding sound corporate governance practices within CBUAE and ensuring adherence to international corporate governance guidelines such as BSI 13500 and IMF’s Central Bank Transparency Code. In addition, the department ensures the alignment of the sustainability framework is aligned with global best practices and standards.
Sustainability Policies
The Corporate Governance & Sustainability Department is leading the CBUAE's strategy of embedding corporate governance and sustainability practices across the central bank including its subsidiaries and related entities. The CBUAE committed to H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE's vision of "We the UAE 2031" representing a national plan with focus on social, economic, investment and development aspects of the State. To bring this vision to life along with other national strategies such as the National Green Agenda 2030 and UAE Centennial 2071, the department has introduced three core policies which aim to foster a resilient and future-ready central bank contributing towards a prosperous and sustainable society. The three key policies are available to download.
Board Governance
The Board of Directors ensures that CBUAE fulfills its legal mandate and objectives while operating in compliance with local and international laws. The Board of Directors and the Board Sub-Committees functions are guided by a strong governance framework which includes their respective charters. The Board charters are available to view.
Board and Committee Meetings
The Board of Directors and its Committees convene their meetings in accordance with Federal Decree-Law No. (6) of 2025 Regarding the Central Bank, Regulation of Financial Institutions and Activities, and Insurance Business, and as required throughout the year.
Last updated on: Tuesday 17 March 2026
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