Nearly 67% of UAE residents now prefer using digital apps to send money overseas, according to a new report by Visa.
The study reflects a growing shift away from physical remittance locations, as users turn to digital platforms for greater ease, speed, and security.
Digital shift in remittances
Visa’s Money Travels: 2025 Digital Remittances Adoption Report highlights the increasing role of mobile applications in cross-border money transfers.
Of those surveyed in the UAE, 50% said they chose digital apps for their simplicity, while 46% cited factors such as privacy and fast transaction times.
Remittances remain an essential part of life for many in the UAE, which is home to a large expatriate population. The report shows that 49% of respondents send money for humanitarian or family needs, 48% provide regular support, and 42% assist with emergency expenses.
UAE ranks third globally
The UAE is currently the third-largest sender of remittances in the world. According to data from Statista, transaction volumes are expected to grow at an annual rate of 16.91%, reaching $6.59 billion by 2030.
Visa says it is working with local financial institutions to improve access to secure international money transfers. Its Visa Direct service allows real-time transfers to eligible bank accounts, cards, and digital wallets worldwide.
In the UAE, the company has also launched Visa+, enabling users to transfer money internationally using only a mobile number.
“For people in the UAE, digital payments are increasingly central to how they provide support to their families and communities around the world,” said Salima Gutieva, Visa’s Vice President and Country Manager for the UAE.
“As one of the world’s largest remittance hubs, the UAE plays a critical role in enabling these flows, and Visa is bringing new ways – in partnership with our clients – to meet the local demand for simpler, faster and more secure ways to transfer money internationally.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
