The UAE Central Bank has banned banks from using messaging apps like WhatsApp for customer services, but what does that actually mean for you?

Here’s a simple breakdown 

No more banking over WhatsApp

If you’ve ever:

• Messaged your bank on WhatsApp
• Received account details or updates
• Got verification codes or documents

That’s now completely banned.

Banks are no longer allowed to use messaging apps for any financial communication.

Your data will be safer

The main reason for the ban is security.

Messaging apps can:

• Be used for scams or impersonation
• Allow easy sharing of sensitive info (screenshots/forwards)
• Store or process data outside the UAE

The new rule ensures your banking data stays protected and within the country.

What you can’t do anymore

Through apps like WhatsApp, you will not be able to:

• Transfer money
• Pay bills
• Open or close accounts
• Receive PINs or OTPs
• Share documents like Emirates ID or bank statements

Where you should bank instead

Going forward, banks will direct you to official channels only, such as:

• Mobile banking apps
• Secure websites
• Call centres
• Physical branches

 If someone asks you to share banking details over WhatsApp, that’s a red flag.

Watch out for scams

This change also helps you identify fraud more easily:

Banks will not contact you on WhatsApp for sensitive matters anymore

So if you get such a message, it’s likely a scam.

When this takes effect

Banks have until the end of April to fully stop using messaging apps. After that, violations could lead to penalties.

This isn’t about convenience, it’s about protecting your money and personal data. Expect fewer casual interactions with banks, but much stronger security.

UAE residents could be in for another long holiday, as astronomers have revealed the likely dates for Eid Al Adha 2026 based on early calculations.

According to the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology, the festival is expected to fall on Wednesday, May 27, though the final date will depend on the official moon sighting.

When is Eid likely to fall?

If current projections hold:

• Dhu Al Hijjah is expected to begin on Monday, May 18
• Day of Arafah may fall on Tuesday, May 26
• Eid Al Adha would begin on Wednesday, May 27

The prediction is based on the expected visibility of the crescent moon on May 17, when viewing conditions are considered favourable.

Eid Al Adha is one of the most significant holidays in Islam and coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah. For many residents, it also means a multi-day public holiday and travel plans.

Astronomer Hamid Majoul Al Nuaimi noted that the data has been shared with the UAE Council for Fatwa. However, authorities stressed that official dates will only be confirmed after the crescent moon is sighted on May 17.

The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, has announced the introduction of two new gates under the Darb Toll Gate System in Abu Dhabi. The move aims to improve traffic flow, enhance road network efficiency, and reduce congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Motorists, however, can opt for alternative routes (given below) to avoid toll charges, although this may result in longer travel times.

Locations and launch date

The two new toll gates will become operational on May 4, and will run 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

They are located at:

• Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Street in Ghantoot
• Wahat Al Karama Street, at the entrance and exit of Sheikh Zayed Street

Toll charges and exemptions

A toll fee of Dh4 per crossing will apply.

However, certain categories will continue to be exempt under Abu Dhabi’s approved toll system, including:

• Senior citizens
• People of Determination
• Low-income citizens
• Retired citizens

Alternative routes for motorists

The ITC confirmed that the locations were selected based on detailed traffic studies, including traffic density, mobility patterns, and the availability of alternative routes.

Al Qurm Toll Gate (Wahat Al Karama Street):

• Alternative routes: Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Street, Arabian Gulf Street

Ghantoot Toll Gate (Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Street):

• Alternative route: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Street

According to the ITC, the addition of these gates is part of broader efforts to support Abu Dhabi’s urban expansion and rising traffic demand.

The centre will continue to monitor the system through regular evaluations, analysing traffic patterns and performance to ensure the toll network operates efficiently and meets its traffic management objectives.