UAE Expats Can Now Transfer Money in 10 Seconds Using Just a Mobile Number
Indian expats and UAE residents can now transfer money instantly using only a mobile phone number, thanks to the launch of ‘Aani’, a new instant payments system introduced by Al Etihad Payments (AEP), a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE).
This reform, which went live in October, eliminates the need for remembering or sharing lengthy bank account numbers or IBANs, making everyday money transfers faster, simpler, and more secure.
What is ‘Aani’?
‘Aani’ is a national instant payments platform that enables people to send or receive money within 10 seconds through participating banks and licensed financial institutions. The system is accessible via:
Mobile banking apps of participating UAE banks and exchanges.
The standalone Aani app, available for both iOS and Android devices (requires a UAE bank account).
Currently, more than 30 UAE-based banks and financial institutions are enrolled on the platform, including: ADCB, Emirates NBD, FAB, Mashreq, Dubai Islamic Bank, Sharjah Islamic Bank, HSBC, Citibank, Al Ansari Exchange, Lulu Exchange, and WIO, among others.
Five Key Benefits of Aani
Send money using only a phone number — no IBAN needed.
Request money from friends, family, or business contacts.
Split bills conveniently with multiple people.
QR Code payments (coming soon) — enabling cashless payments at shops, restaurants, and businesses.
Manage payment requests — accept, decline, or clear pending transfers easily.
Transaction Limits
The maximum transfer per transaction is Dh50,000, making it useful for both personal and small business use.
Transfer fees are set individually by participating banks or exchanges, so charges may vary depending on your institution.
How to Use Aani: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Enrol via your bank’s app
Open your participating bank’s mobile app.
Select the account (savings or current) to link with Aani.
Confirm your Emirates ID, registered mobile number, and security PIN/password.
Each bank’s process may differ slightly, but the basics remain the same.
Step 2: Receive confirmation
Once registered, your bank will send an email confirmation that you’ve been successfully enrolled in Aani.
Step 3: Start using Aani
In your bank’s app, you will now see the dedicated ‘Aani Services’ section, typically under “Transfers.” The options include:
Send Money – enter the recipient’s mobile number and amount.
Request Money – generate a request for someone else to pay you.
Scan & Pay – use QR codes for payments (rolling out soon).
Pending Requests – check transfers awaiting approval.
Split Bill – divide expenses among friends or family.
Why Aani Matters
For Everyday Transfers
Paying friends back after dinner, sharing rent, or splitting utilities becomes seamless.
For Small Businesses
Retailers and service providers can accept payments instantly, even without knowing customer account details.
For Expats & Families
While Aani currently supports domestic UAE transfers only, the system makes it easier for UAE residents to manage money between local banks, exchanges, and digital accounts.
For the Cashless Economy
With QR code payments set to launch soon, UAE residents will be able to shop, eat out, or pay service providers without needing cards or cash.
Security and Regulation
Since Aani is run by Al Etihad Payments under the Central Bank of the UAE, the platform is fully regulated and backed by the UAE’s national financial infrastructure. Transfers are encrypted, and only licensed financial institutions can participate, ensuring a high level of trust and reliability.
Final Word
With Aani, the UAE takes another step toward a cashless economy, making instant money transfers as easy as sending a text message. For residents, this means faster payments, less reliance on cash, and more convenience in managing everyday expenses.
Whether it’s splitting a bill, paying for services, or simply sending money to a friend — all you need now is their mobile number, and the money arrives in seconds.
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