In a landmark move to boost digital banking security, banks across the UAE will begin phasing out one-time passwords (OTPs) sent via SMS and email starting Friday, July 25, 2025. The transition comes in line with new directives issued by the UAE Central Bank, mandating the adoption of app-based authentication for all local and international banking transactions.

The shift will be implemented in stages, with customers required to activate app-based verification systems to continue approving transactions. The complete phase-out of SMS and email OTPs is expected by March 2026.

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The UAE Central Bank’s initiative marks a significant departure from traditional OTP delivery methods, which have increasingly become targets for cyber threats. In contrast, app-based verification offers a more secure and reliable method for transaction approvals, leveraging advanced technology to safeguard user data and banking operations.

The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has unveiled a new academic calendar for the 2025–2026 academic year, set to be adopted across all public and private higher education institutions in the UAE. The move follows approval from the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council and is part of a broader push to strengthen the national education system.

Key changes include a revised structure for end-of-term holidays, aimed at offering greater flexibility and consistency for universities across the country. The revamped calendar is aligned with the objectives of the ‘Year of Community,’ a national initiative that encourages family cohesion and student well-being through a more balanced academic schedule.

His Excellency Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation and Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, said the new calendar reflects a strategic shift in how academic life is structured to better serve students and society.

“This step reflects our ongoing efforts to enhance the efficiency of the higher education system by aligning academic policies with community development goals and student needs,” Dr. Al Awar said. “It marks a qualitative shift toward a more flexible, balanced system that supports students’ well-being, community engagement, and personal growth.”

The Ministry says the updated calendar is part of a larger vision to foster an integrated and responsive university environment—one that not only meets academic requirements but also supports the broader personal and social development of students.

The United Arab Emirates has been ranked the safest country in the world for 2025, according to mid-year data released by Numbeo, a leading crowd-sourced global database. The Emirates has overtaken last year’s leader, Andorra, to claim the top spot, with a Safety Index score of 85.2.

The annual rankings, based on user-generated surveys that gauge public perceptions of crime, safety, and personal risk, placed the UAE first among 148 countries. Unlike official crime data, Numbeo’s Safety Index reflects how secure residents and visitors feel, and their confidence in local law enforcement.

The Gulf region as a whole recorded strong performances in the global safety landscape. Qatar retained its third-place ranking with a score of 84.6, while Oman stood firm in sixth place. Saudi Arabia held 14th, registering a slight year-on-year improvement, and Bahrain climbed to 15th. Kuwait was ranked 38th overall.

Abu Dhabi continues to earn praise for its forward-thinking urban planning and minimal perception of crime, while Dubai’s reliable public transport system, high standards in healthcare, and city-wide cleanliness have bolstered its global reputation for livability—even as the rising cost of living remains a concern for many.

Andorra, which led the 2024 rankings, slipped to second place with a score of 84.8. Taiwan came in fourth with 83.0, maintaining its consistent presence among the top five thanks to low violent crime rates, efficient public services, and a strong police presence. Macao rounded out the top five, scoring 81.8.

Other high-ranking nations in the top 10 include the Isle of Man (7th), Hong Kong (8th), Armenia (9th), and Singapore (10th)—all known for their longstanding public safety frameworks and efficient governance.

The UAE’s climb to the top of the rankings highlights its continued investment in public safety, infrastructure, and citizen well-being—earning it not just global recognition, but also the trust of the people who live and travel there.