16 June 2026: Franklin Templeton, one of the world's largest asset managers with ~USD 1.8tn under management globally, recently secured an Investment Fund Management license from the UAE Capital Market Authority (CMA). Its announcement highlights retirement savings and end-of-service solutions as areas of focus.
This is a noteworthy development because so far, global asset managers have been positioning for the UAE EOSB Savings Scheme through partnerships with local providers. For instance, Allianz has partnered with Daman Investments, Fidelity International with Emirates NBD and Amundi has a broader strategic relationship with FAB.
Franklin Templeton's new CMA license suggests a more direct route to market participation in the UAE retirement savings and end-of-service landscape, subject to any future regulatory approvals and product launches.
For context, Franklin Templeton is not new to the region. It already offers funds on both DIFC EOSB Savings Plans, DEWS and GoSaver, and has an established presence in the region through banking partnerships built over the last 25 years.
As more providers enter the market, employees will benefit from greater choice. Employers, however, will have more work comparing providers and investment options to determine what best suits their workforce.
The UAE EOSB Savings Scheme remains voluntary for now. But the EOSB ecosystem is expanding, with new participants clearly viewing EOSB as a long-term opportunity in the UAE.
Worth watching for employers.
Nisha Braganza
Founder and CEO, Vestora · UAE CMA Registered Finfluencer No. 12
Independent commentary on EOSB markets and regulation across the UAE and GCC.