Comfort redefined

Mobile apps, smartphones and tablets are fast replacing traditional forms of banking and business transactions. More businesses in the UAE and around the world are making use of smart apps, driven by exceptional consumer demand. Mobile apps offer several advantages, such as excellent security, easy access and plentiful applications.
These days online banking is a secure way to bank. Taking a cue most banks have made sure that their sites are well secured and protected from cyber thefts. Besides giving round the clock access to your account, online banking has become a convenient alternative for those who can't get to the bank during normal hours because of their hectic work schedules and other personal reasons.
Modern banking is very convenient. A few steps are all that is required to set your online account or an ATM pin. It takes a few minutes to download a banking app and you can easily book time deposits at the latest effective interest terms with the click of a button. If you wish to apply for equal payment plan for your credit card purchases or view your banking account summary and transactions, simply log into your online account.
Whether it is transferring funds between your own accounts, to another accounts in the UAE or even to an account in another bank outside the country, online banking makes it possible with a few simple steps. From converting your purchases into easy instalment plans to keeping a watch on your money and financial transactions - irrespective of your geographical location, the advantage of online banking and mobile apps are manifold.
Over the years apps and online commerce has evolved by leaps and bounds. Besides offering convenience of shopping for one's favourite brands, e-banking has helped create simple and trusted shopping environments for customers. Most retail outlets have dedicated websites these days to reach out to more customers.
The UAE ranks as one of the world's top three countries in mobile banking adoption, according to a recent global SAP study on technology in banking. The trends show that smart banking is following a similar usage curve to online banking, with the UAE, China, and India leading in adoption.
As the number of smartphone users jump further, more and more people will tend to use banking apps. With the popularity of apps and online banking, we are entering an era of branchless banking where opening a checking/savings account from the phone is the new routine.
- sadiq@khaleejtimes.com
Top UAE banking apps
Emirates NBD
Emirates NBD has a very sleek app that makes banking easy and convenient - from viewing your account details and transactions to managing your credit card and payments.
ADIB Mobile Banking
Perhaps one of the best apps in town, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank's mobile app is snazzy. It allows clients to check their banking account details in a very user-friendly manner. You can transfer money and track credit card spends, apart from recharging your credit and paying bills with a click of a button.
ADCB Mobile banking
You can pay utility bills with Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank's app. It is helpful to check account status, transfer money, settle credit-card dues, redeem and purchase TouchPoints also.
NBAD Mobile Banking
With a minimalistic layout, the app by National Bank of Abu Dhabi is highly personalised and prioritises tailor-made information, which is relevant to the customer. The app has a feature to create international beneficiaries.
DIB Mobile
With more than 50 services, Dubai Islamic Bank's app allows subscribers to go for fund transfers, bill payments, currency conversions and cash withdrawals from ATMs without a debit card. The app has in-built spending limit that helps control your spending.
Mashreq UAE
With its dazzling colour patterns and easy feel, Mashreq's app has been designed with the younger audience in mind. From Salaam rewards, cards offers and news from the bank to checking your account balances, paying utility bills and transfering funds, you can do it all.
FGB Mobile Banking
Besides providing a graphic overview of your finances, the FGB Mobile bank app has features like currency converter, quick cash and term deposit calculators. You can perform banking inquiries and transactions in Arabic and English including inquiries on credit cards and payments for utility services among other services. The app also allows you to go for a cardless transaction at any FGB ATM.