No OTP Via SMS Or Emails! UAE Banks Urge Residents To Use Mobile App

If you’re still waiting for an OTP to hit your inbox before making a transfer, get ready for a change. UAE banks will no longer send OTPs by SMS or email starting Friday, July 25th 2025. Instead, they want you to rely on mobile apps for that extra security step. Yes, it’s the end of the OTP ping era.

UAE Banks Drop SMS and Email OTPs From July 25, App Authentication Takes Over

This update comes straight from the UAE Central Bank’s official playbook. Banks across the country will phase out all OTPs sent through email and text messages. Whether you’re transferring money locally or internationally, the new rule applies across the board.

No More Waiting For OTPs In UAE That Never Arrive

So, what’s the alternative? It’s all going app-based. Banks will now authenticate your transactions through their smart mobile applications. Once you opt for the ‘Authentication via App’ option, the system does the rest. It’s faster, tighter, and more controlled. No more waiting for a flaky network to deliver your code or worrying if your email’s been hacked.

Why The Big Shift?

This change isn’t just about following the tech crowd. It’s a security upgrade. OTPs sent by SMS or email have often been easy targets for scams, such as phishing and SIM swapping. With in-app authentication, banks are closing the gaps and giving you control. These apps come loaded with security features like PINs and fingerprint access, so it’s a lot harder for anyone to sneak in and try to steal your money. And our phones are always in our hands. But getting those OTPs when the network on your phone is acting strange can definitely be a troublesome experience. But not anymore! With the in-app authentication feature on your app, it’s going to be easy peasy! 

Also Read: UAE Issued A Brand New AED 50 Banknote That Will Be Available In Central Banks Soon

Conclusion

So simply update your banking app and turn on that in-app authentication feature. From 25 July, there’ll be no more OTPs via text or email. Just a smoother, more secure process on your phone. Welcome to banking 2.0, less waiting, more swiping, and definitely fewer headaches.

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