The average share of digital banking transactions in banks operating in the UAE has reached approximately 95% of total transactions, as reported in the annual statements of local banks. This significant shift highlights the growing importance of digital banking services as a safeguard that enhances the continuity of banking operations and reduces vulnerability to global crises and challenges, supported by a robust digital infrastructure and flexible banking channels that compete with leading banking systems worldwide.
Experts noted that the UAE banking sector is reaping the benefits of an early vision for technological transformation and service digitization. This vision proved effective during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing banks to continue providing their services efficiently and swiftly. Consequently, this elevated clients’ reliance on digital channels and increased their confidence in local banking systems.
**Ease of Services**
According to bank data, between 85% and 92% of clients utilize digital banking services, varying from one bank to another, reflecting the widespread availability and accessibility of these services. Banks continue to offer services through all channels, including branches, mobile applications, online services, and ATM networks.
Recently, banks have confirmed their operations are running at full capacity, backed by a ready technological infrastructure and core banking service platforms, ensuring they meet their financial commitments and serve clients as usual.
Data from the UAE Central Bank indicates that there are 66 digital banking units in the local market, comprising 45 units from national banks and 21 from foreign banks, along with around 4,400 ATMs in operation.
Preliminary indicators from the UAE Banks Federation suggest that the country leads globally in utilizing digital channels for banking transactions, highlighting the technical advancement in the financial sector.
**Enhancing Efficiency**
Banking professional Amjad Nasr stated that recent years have witnessed significant advancements in digital banking services, where modern technologies have become a crucial part of banks’ strategies to boost efficiency and improve customer experiences. He pointed out that these services have proven their importance during global crises by enabling clients to complete transactions easily and securely without needing to visit branches.
**Digital Infrastructure**
Economic and financial expert Ahmed Al-Darmaki noted that digital transformation in the banking sector enhances banks’ capabilities to maintain operations and ensure efficient service delivery even in times of crises, leveraging the advanced digital infrastructure present in the country.
He added that early technological advancements have also raised awareness among clients regarding the use of digital channels and smart banking applications, enabling payment transactions and access to various financing services, thereby enhancing the banking sector’s flexibility and its ability to support economic activity.
**Pioneering Experiences**
Digital transformation experts view the UAE’s approach as a global benchmark in integrating modern technologies and artificial intelligence into the banking sector, which has broadened the scope of banking services and made them accessible to a wider array of clients, backed by advanced regulations and substantial investments in digital infrastructure. Indicators and studies reaffirm that the increasing rates of digital banking service usage in the UAE bolster the banking sector’s ability to maintain its continuity and resilience in the face of challenges and crises compared to many other markets.