UAE Launches Biometric Digital Banking Initiative for Tourists

Tourists and visitors heading to Dubai and other emirates in the UAE, including Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman, can now utilize a new biometric-based service to open bank accounts and obtain digital debit cards for instant cashless payments.

According to a report from the Khaleej Times, visitors can open these digital accounts within minutes via the 'Tourist Identity' initiative, which was launched on Wednesday by UAE authorities.

The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), developed the service to allow non-resident visitors to open accounts securely through a fully digital process. The system utilizes biometrics and facial recognition technology, linking the digital identity system directly to ADCB’s mobile banking application.

This initiative replaces the previous, document-heavy process that was required for non-residents to open bank accounts in the UAE. Officials stated that the move is designed to boost financial inclusion, accelerate the country’s transition toward a digital payments ecosystem, and reduce reliance on cash transactions.

Saif Humaid Al Dhaheri, Assistant Governor for Banking Operations and Support Services at the CBUAE, noted that the initiative connects visitors to the national payment ecosystem, including the ‘Jaywan’ card scheme and the ‘Aani’ instant payment platform. "The initiative contributes to enhancing ease of doing business and delivering an integrated and secure banking experience for visitors from the moment they arrive in the UAE," Al Dhaheri said.

Major General Suhail Juma Al Khaili, Acting Director General of Citizenship at ICP, added that the initiative enables multiple sectors to deliver services seamlessly to visitors using advanced identification technologies.