UAE capital markets to close for two days amid regional developments
Regulators cite supervisory role and ongoing assessments
DUBAI – UAE capital markets will pause trading for two days this week, with regulators announcing the temporary closure of exchanges across the country.
The decision affects Nasdaq Dubai, the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and the Dubai Financial Market. Authorities confirmed that trading will not take place on Monday, 2 March, and Tuesday, 3 March 2026.
The measures were announced separately by the UAE Capital Market Authority and the Dubai Financial Services Authority, each outlining its supervisory role and ongoing monitoring of developments in the region. Officials stated that the situation continues to be assessed, with further steps to be taken if necessary.
Two-day closure
In a statement issued on Sunday, the UAE Capital Market Authority confirmed that, in implementation of its regulatory responsibilities and pursuant to applicable laws, capital markets across the country would close for the specified dates. The suspension applies to both the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and the Dubai Financial Market.
سوف يغلق سوق أبوظبي للأوراق المالية يومي 2 و3 مارس 2026، وذلك بناءً على توجيهات هيئة سوق المال في دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة، الجهة التنظيمية للأسواق المالية في الدولة.
— سوق أبوظبي للأوراق المالية (@ADX_AE) March 1, 2026
وسيواصل سوق أبوظبي للأوراق المالية متابعة تطورات الأسواق والمنطقة عن كثب، والعمل مع الجهات المعنية فيما يخص… pic.twitter.com/uzKpFGW9mh
The Authority said it would continue monitoring developments in the region and assess the situation on an ongoing basis. Any additional measures, if required, will be announced through official channels.
Market participants, listed companies and investors have been advised to follow updates from the UAE Capital Market Authority, ADX and DFM regarding the resumption of trading activity.
Nasdaq Dubai
Separately, the Dubai Financial Services Authority announced the temporary closure of Nasdaq Dubai, effective Monday, 2 March 2026 and Tuesday, 3 March 2026.
Update for the DIFC community: We are closely monitoring current regional developments. Please review the latest guidance and operational arrangements. pic.twitter.com/4B6W59XmMs
— DIFC (@DIFC) March 1, 2026
Nasdaq Dubai operates as the international financial exchange based in the Dubai International Financial Centre, offering a platform for regional and global investors to trade equities, derivatives, sukuk and conventional bonds. The exchange plays a key role in connecting regional issuers with international capital.
The DFSA stated that it remains in regular contact with local authorities and relevant advisories while closely observing regional developments.
Ongoing monitoring
Both regulators emphasised that the closures are temporary and precautionary in nature. Officials confirmed that the authorities are maintaining coordination with relevant entities and will provide updates as circumstances evolve.
Further information regarding the reopening of markets is expected to be communicated through official regulatory and exchange platforms in due course.