This UAE Bank Will Soon Ditch OTPs for App Verification

  • Publish date: Friday، 03 October 2025 Reading time: 1 min read

No more waiting for SMS codes—Emirates NBD is rolling out app-based transaction verification for smoother, safer payments.

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Emirates NBD is saying goodbye to SMS OTPs (one-time passwords) for online payments. Instead of punching in codes sent via text or email, customers will soon get a push notification on the ENBD X app. Tap, confirm, and you’re done—it’s faster, safer, and doesn’t depend on mobile signal, only internet.

Why the Switch

This move is part of a wider shift across UAE banks to beef up security while keeping things simple for customers. Cybersecurity experts say app-based authentication cuts the risk of fraud, protects identities, and makes the whole process less of a hassle.

The Bigger Picture

Fraud is expensive in the UAE. A survey by LexisNexis found companies lose about Dh4.19 for every dirham stolen once you add in hidden costs like labor, interest, and replacing lost goods. No wonder banks are upping their game.

What Customers Can Expect

  • Enhanced security: With smart pass and biometric options built in.

  • Faster approvals: Approve payments right inside the app.

  • No more weak signals: Internet connection is all you need.

Emirates NBD says the feature will go live soon, making online transfers—local or international—quicker and less stressful.