UAE Central Bank Prohibits Messaging Apps for Financial Communications

Apr 29, 2026

58 min

Apr 29, 2026 07:31

UAE Central Bank bans WhatsApp, messaging apps in financial customer communications

## New Directive from UAE Central Bank

The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) has issued a directive prohibiting financial institutions from using instant messaging platforms, such as WhatsApp, for customer communications. This decision is driven by concerns over data security and customer protection.

## Compliance Deadline

Financial institutions, including banks, insurers, and exchange houses, must comply with this directive by April 30, 2026. They are required to update the central bank on their compliance status by this date.

## Security Concerns

The central bank highlighted several risks associated with using messaging apps for financial transactions. These include potential fraud, identity theft, and unauthorized account access. Additionally, there are concerns about data being processed or stored outside the UAE, which could complicate regulatory oversight.

## Prohibited Activities

Under the new rules, financial institutions are barred from using messaging apps to request or share customer data, process transactions, or conduct authentication procedures. All customer data and transaction records must be securely stored within the UAE.

## Customer Notifications

Banks have started informing customers through SMS, email, and app alerts about the cessation of messaging platforms for service requests and communications.

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