Payment methods have come a long way. From cash to cards, and now phones, it’s never been easier. But what if, in the future, all you need to make a payment is your face or palm? That future is closer than you think, especially in the UAE where the testing of biometric payments has begun.
Currently in its pilot phase, the system is being tested for security, efficiency, and readiness before any wider rollout. While there’s no official timeline for a public launch, this initiative points to a future where payments are seamless and secure, without the need for cards or devices.
The UAE has already successfully tested other initiatives that open up new possibilities for shoppers. In November 2025, the first-ever transaction was made using Digital Dirham.
The shift to biometric payments also means that things like passwords and endless verification codes are slowly becoming a thing of the past, replaced by faster and more secure solutions. In summer 2025, the country’s banks began phasing out one-time passwords (OTPs).
Stay tuned for more updates on these developments, because the way we pay is changing, and we’re moving toward a world where paying is as easy as being yourself.
