The UAE has launched Aani, an instant payments platform that allows residents to transfer money using only a mobile number. With transactions completed within 10 seconds, the system offers a fast, secure, and convenient way for individuals and businesses to send funds across the country without needing traditional bank account details.
The UAE has introduced a groundbreaking digital payment system that allows residents to transfer money using just a mobile number—no bank account or IBAN required. Launched in October 2023, the Aani platform enables instant domestic money transfers within 10 seconds, revolutionizing the way individuals and businesses handle financial transactions in the country.
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Aani is an instant payments platform developed by Al Etihad Payments, a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE). The platform facilitates seamless, real-time money transfers between participating banks and financial institutions, enhancing the convenience and speed of financial transactions for users across the UAE.
Aani offers several innovative features designed to simplify and expedite financial transactions:
Mobile Number-Based Transfers: Users can send money to recipients using only their mobile numbers, eliminating the need for traditional bank account details.
Request Money: Users can request money from others, streamlining the process of collecting payments.
Bill Splitting: Aani allows users to split bills among multiple parties, making it easier to share expenses.
QR Code Payments: The platform supports QR code-based payments at shops, businesses, and restaurants, facilitating quick and contactless transactions.
Payment Management: Users can manage their payment requests, including accepting, declining, or clearing pending transactions.
The maximum limit for each transaction through Aani is Dh50,000, providing flexibility for both personal and business-related financial activities.
Aani collaborates with a wide range of licensed financial institutions in the UAE. As of September 2025, the following banks and financial institutions have partnered with the platform:
ADCB
ADIB
Ajman Bank
Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait
Al Ansari Exchange
Al Fardan Exchange
Al Hilal Bank
Al Khaliji France S.A
Al Masraf
Arab Bank
Bank of Sharjah
Banque Banorient France
Botim
CBI
Citibank
Commercial Bank of Dubai
Dubai Islamic Bank
Emirates Islamic
ENBD X
FAB
Finance House
Habib Bank AG Zurich
Habib Bank Limited
HSBC
Lulu Exchange
Mashreq
Al Maryah Community Bank
National Bank of Umm Al Qaiwain
NBF
RakBank
Sharjah Islamic Bank
UAB
WIO
Users of these institutions can access Aani's services through their respective mobile banking applications or by downloading the standalone Aani app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
To begin using Aani, users need to complete a simple enrollment process through their bank's mobile application:
Download the Bank’s App: Install the mobile banking application of a participating bank.
Select Account: Choose the account (savings or current) to link with Aani.
Verify Identity: Confirm personal details such as Emirates ID and mobile number.
Set Security PIN: Enter a security PIN or online banking password to complete the setup.
Upon successful enrollment, users will receive a confirmation email from their bank. They can then access Aani's services via the 'Transfers' section in their bank's mobile app or directly through the Aani app.
Using Aani to send money is straightforward:
Initiate Transfer: Open the 'Transfers' section in the mobile banking app or the Aani app.
Select 'Send Money': Choose the option to send money.
Enter Recipient's Mobile Number: Input the recipient's mobile number.
Enter Amount: Specify the amount to transfer (up to Dh50,000).
Confirm Details: Review the transaction details and confirm.
Authenticate: Authenticate the transaction using the security PIN or online banking password.
The recipient will receive the funds instantly, and the transaction will be completed within seconds.
Aani offers several advantages over traditional money transfer methods:
Speed: Transfers are completed within 10 seconds, ensuring immediate access to funds.
Convenience: Users can send money using just a mobile number, eliminating the need for bank account details.
Accessibility: The platform is accessible via mobile banking apps or the standalone Aani app, making it easy to use on the go.
Security: Transactions are secured with encryption and authentication measures, ensuring the safety of users' financial information.
Cost-Effectiveness: While processing fees are determined by individual financial institutions, Aani offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional money transfer methods.
The Central Bank of the UAE plans to expand Aani's capabilities by introducing additional features:
QR Code Payments: Users will soon be able to make payments by scanning QR codes at shops, businesses, and restaurants.
International Transfers: Future updates may include the ability to send money internationally, broadening the platform's reach.
These developments aim to enhance the user experience and position Aani as a comprehensive digital payment solution in the UAE.
Aani represents a significant advancement in the UAE's digital payment landscape, offering residents a fast, secure, and convenient method to transfer money using just a mobile number. With its user-friendly interface and rapid transaction processing, Aani is set to become a preferred choice for individuals and businesses seeking efficient financial solutions.
