First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the UAE’s largest bank, has become a Direct Participant in China’s Cross-border Interbank Payment System (CIPS), strengthening its role as a key player in facilitating Renminbi (RMB) transactions across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
CIPS is the official payment infrastructure for cross-border RMB settlements, providing faster and more secure transactions for international trade and finance. FAB’s inclusion as a Direct Participant marks a significant milestone in regional financial integration, positioning the bank at the forefront of the China–UAE/GCC economic corridor.
In a statement, FAB said the move will enhance its ability to deliver real-time RMB payment solutions, improve transaction efficiency, and expand its capabilities in regional cash management and clearing. This advancement supports the bank’s strategic focus on digital transformation and operational excellence.
FAB is currently the only UAE bank with a fully licensed branch in Mainland China, enabling it to offer RMB services directly from within the Chinese banking system. The bank’s unique cross-border footprint allows it to meet the growing demand for RMB-denominated services among clients transacting between China, the UAE, and broader MENA markets.
“With a fully licensed branch in Mainland China, FAB holds a unique position among UAE banks enabling it to lead on the integration of the Renminbi into our existing global banking service offering,” said Hana Al Rostamani, Group CEO at FAB. “Our direct participation in CIPS significantly enhances our ability to provide faster, more secure and efficient RMB payment solutions and deliver real-time settlement capabilities.”
She added that the development reaffirms FAB’s role as a trusted financial infrastructure partner and aligns with the bank’s ambition to support international trade and investment flows through cutting-edge infrastructure and connectivity.
CIPS, launched in 2015 by the People’s Bank of China, is central to China’s efforts to internationalise the RMB. FAB’s membership is expected to bolster bilateral trade and financial cooperation between China and the UAE, as both countries continue to deepen ties under strategic initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and various UAE–China investment partnerships.
FAB’s move comes amid growing momentum in cross-border digital payments and an increasing appetite among regional institutions to diversify currency settlement channels. By aligning with CIPS, FAB aims to reduce reliance on traditional intermediaries and streamline settlement pathways for its institutional and corporate clients.
The development also underscores FAB’s commitment to investing in financial infrastructure that supports regional leadership, risk management, and innovation in global banking.
