UAE Banks to Stop SMS and Email OTPs From July 25
- Publish date: Thursday، 24 July 2025 Reading time: two min read
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In a big move to boost digital banking security, UAE banks will start phasing out one-time passwords (OTPs) sent via SMS and email starting Friday, July 25.
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This change comes under new guidelines issued by the UAE Central Bank, which requires all banks to shift to app-based authentication for both local and international financial transactions.
Why the change?
SMS and email OTPs have been widely used for years, but they’ve also become common targets for cybercriminals using techniques like SIM swapping and phishing. Switching to in-app verification adds an extra layer of security by keeping the authentication process within your bank’s secure mobile app.
What this means for you:
Instead of waiting for a code to arrive by text or email, you’ll now confirm transactions through your bank’s mobile app using fingerprint, face ID, or a secure push notification.
A bank spokesperson explained:
“As per the directives issued by the UAE Central Bank, the practice of receiving OTPs via SMS or email will be phased out. Customers can now complete online transactions easily by selecting the ‘Authentication via App’ feature in their bank’s smart application.”
Full phase-out by March 2026
The change won’t happen overnight. Banks will roll out the transition gradually, with the goal of completely stopping SMS and email OTPs by March 2026.
Until then, some customers may still receive OTPs the old way — but it’s only temporary. Banks are encouraging users to update their apps and get comfortable with in-app authentication as soon as possible.
Part of the UAE’s digital transformation
This move is part of the country’s broader push to modernise its financial systems and make online banking safer and smoother for everyone.
So if you haven’t already, now’s a good time to update your bank app and explore the new authentication features. The future of banking in the UAE is mobile-first and it starts this week.