Planning a trip to the UAE as a tourist? The country now welcomes you with a new service that will make your visit more pleasant. Thanks to the Tourist Identity initiative, non-resident visitors can open a digital bank account in just minutes.
In the past, setting up a bank account as a non-resident meant dealing with piles of paperwork and long approval waits. Now, thanks to a collaboration between the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), the process is faster, simpler, and fully digital.
This initiative is part of the UAE’s push to reduce cash transactions and build a more inclusive digital economy. Dubai aims to become 100% cashless by the end of 2026, so if you’re visiting soon, you may find having a digital bank account for tourists quite handy.
Here’s how to get it:
- Upon landing in the UAE, you receive a Tourist Identity through biometric data and facial recognition
- This digital ID is linked to ADCB’s mobile banking app
- You can open an account in just minutes and start using essential services immediately, including getting a digital debit card
Non-residents will also have easy access to services like the Jaywan card scheme and the Aani instant payment platform.
Earlier this year, the UAE started testing biometric payments that let you use just your face or palm. Soon, you may not even need any device to complete transactions for your coffee or shopping.
Visiting UAE for the First Time?
You’re in for a treat! The country has so many attractions and events, you won’t get bored a single minute. Whether you’re here for business or just to explore, be sure to check out the Top 50 Attractions in Dubai and Best Outdoor Adventure Activities in Dubai to get the most out of your trip.
