UAE banks stops SMS OTP, moves to app-based approvals for all transfers; what customers need to know

Emirates NBD ends OTP codes, makes app approval mandatory for transactions

Emirates NBD will replace one-time passwords (OTPs) sent by SMS or email with app-based verification through its ENBD X mobile app, starting a phased rollout on 1 November 2025 and extending to debit/credit card alerts soon after. The move follows a wider Central Bank push to eliminate SMS/email OTPs and shift customers to stronger, in-app authentication.

Emirates NBD app verification rollout plan and timeline

Emirates NBD says it will phase out SMS OTPs and use push-based confirmations within the ENBD X app to approve online transactions and transfers. The initial phase begins 1 November 2025, covering account transfers and low-value alerts (reports say transfers of AED 100 or less will be included first), with debit and credit card transaction alerts to follow as the bank expands the system. The bank and industry sources add that the Central Bank of the UAE has directed banks to fully phase out SMS/email OTPs by March 2026, so this change is part of a regulated, sector-wide transition.

Why UAE banks are abandoning SMS OTPs — security and customer experience

SMS and email OTPs have become a prime target for fraud: SIM-swap attacks, SMS-interception and social-engineering schemes have exposed customers’ accounts. App-based authentication (push notifications, biometrics and soft tokens) reduces those risks because approvals happen inside a secured app bound to the customer’s device, often combined with biometric checks. Regulators and banks say the switch improves security and speeds up transactions while reducing reliance on telecom channels.

How to prepare: enable ENBD X verification and backup options

If you bank with Emirates NBD, take three practical steps now: download or update the ENBD X app, register your device and enable in-app push notifications and biometric sign-in; confirm your mobile number and contact details with the bank; and learn about fallback options (for example, Emirates NBD’s Smart Pass/soft-token flows or bank support lines) if you lose your device or travel abroad. Emirates NBD’s mobile-banking pages list registration steps and troubleshooting advice for customers who cannot access app authentication.

What customers should watch for and common concerns

For customers, the change means that SMS codes will no longer arrive during transactions. Instead, a push notification will appear on the Emirates NBD app, requiring approval before the transaction is processed. This applies across the board from peer-to-peer transfers within the UAE to international remittances and online shopping payments linked to bank cards. The bank has urged users to update their mobile banking apps and ensure notifications are enabled before the new process takes full effect. Those who have not activated the app on their devices may face delays or disruptions in accessing banking services.The change aims to make online banking safer and faster across the UAE. If you’re an Emirates NBD customer, update ENBD X, enable in-app authentication and check official bank messages for the exact dates that affect your card, account transfers or alerts. For anything unclear, contact Emirates NBD support or visit the bank’s mobile-banking help pages. Go to Source