The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates has rolled out a new service allowing tourists to open bank accounts within minutes, as the country accelerates its push toward a cashless, digitally driven economy.

The initiative, introduced under the “Tourist Identity” programme, enables non-resident visitors to instantly create secure digital bank accounts upon arrival using biometric verification and facial recognition technologies.

Developed in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), the system integrates digital identity with mobile banking platforms to provide immediate access to financial services.

Tourists can receive digital debit cards and begin making cashless payments almost instantly, eliminating the need for traditional paperwork or lengthy approval processes that previously limited access to banking for short-term visitors.

Officials say the move is part of broader efforts by the United Arab Emirates to enhance financial inclusion, streamline visitor experiences, and support its ambition of becoming a global hub for digital finance and smart services.

The development is also expected to benefit the tourism sector by simplifying transactions for international travelers, while reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leader in fintech innovation in the region.