The Ins and Outs of International Money Transfer in UAE

  • January 30, 2025
  • 05:14 Minutes

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Smartphones have made our lives easier in almost every aspect, and international money transfers are no exception. Need to send money across borders? It is simpler than ever. Just a few taps on your smartphone, and you can transfer funds to friends, family, or businesses anywhere in the world. 

The UAE is among the top remittance-sending countries globally, with people sending over USD 38.5 bn in 2023. Here, international mobile money transfer is a blessing. But what are the ins and outs of international mobile money transfers? Let’s understand.

What is International Mobile Money Transfer?

International mobile money transfer is a digital method that lets you send or receive money across borders using mobile platforms or apps. It eliminates the need for physical bank visits.   

How Mobile Money Works 

The process is straightforward. You choose a mobile money transfer app like Payit, create an account, and link it to your bank or e-wallet. To send money, you enter the recipient’s details and the amount and select the currency. The platform processes the transaction; the recipient can withdraw or spend the money directly from their account. Quick, safe, and hassle-free. 

Benefits of Using Mobile Money Transfers 

Infographic showing how to transfer money internationally with Payit e-wallet: Select destination country, enter amount, and add recipient details.

These are the benefits that mobile money transfers offer:

Convenience 

Imagine transferring money at midnight or during a busy day. Mobile money lets you do this. You don’t need to visit a bank or stand in long queues. It’s accessible 24/7. 

Speed of Transactions 

Time is crucial, especially when sending money for emergencies. Transfers from the UAE typically take less than 24 hours. Services like Payit even offer instant transfers. 

Cost-Effectiveness 

Sending money through mobile platforms is one of the cheapest options. Traditional methods charge higher fees. Many platforms even offer free remittance on certain transactions. 

Enhanced Security 

Worried about safety? Mobile money platforms use advanced encryption and multi-factor authentication to secure your transactions. Many also notify you of every activity, ensuring you stay informed. 

Financial Inclusion 

Mobile money transfer also provides services to the unbanked. For example, Payit allows people without traditional bank accounts to access financial services like international transfers, bill payments, eGift, education fees, etc. 

Real-Time Tracking 

Want to know where your money is? Mobile money platforms provide real-time tracking. You can monitor the entire process, from initiation to receipt. 

Comparing of the Prominent Money Transfer Apps

There are multiple types of fees involved in international fund transfers. Check it thoroughly before selecting any platform.

How to Transfer Money Internationally via the Payit App 

These are the common steps to transfer money internationally using the Payit app:

  1. If you are new to Payit, download the app and create your account by uploading your Emirates id. 
  2. Go to ‘Send Money’ and select International Transfer from the app.
  3. Choose the country where you want to send money.
  4. Enter the amount and add beneficiary details. Here, you can see the amount in your destination country’s currency.
  5. Verify and confirm the details and submit. Enter your PIN to validate your transfer. 
  6. Within a few seconds, you will receive a message of your successful transfer.

Challenges for International Mobile Money Transfer

Despite all the benefits, international mobile money transfers have these challenges:

Infographic showing how to transfer money internationally with Payit e-wallet: Select destination country, enter amount, and add recipient details.

Money Transfer Regulations in the UAE

Here’s what you need to know about the regulations governing international money transfers:

Licensed Financial Institutions

Only institutions licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) can offer remittance, transfer, and foreign exchange services. They must clearly inform customers about fees and exchange rates and display buy and sell rates for major currencies. Understand the total cost before completing a transaction. 

Required Information for Transfers

When making a remittance, you’ll need to provide:

  • Your full name
  • Beneficiary’s full name
  • Beneficiary’s bank account details (account number and branch name)
  • Destination country
  • Amount to be remitted in AED and its equivalent in foreign currency

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Measures

The UAE has strict Anti-Money Laundering regulations. Financial institutions may require identification and documentation to verify the source of funds, especially for large transactions. 

Transaction Limits 

The Central Bank of the UAE mandates that all international wire transfers of AED 3,500 or more must include detailed information about the originator and beneficiary, such as names, ID numbers, and account details. Transfers below this amount also require this information, but strict verification is only necessary if suspicious activity arises.

Purpose of Payment Codes

Using Purpose of Payment (PoP) codes is mandatory to identify transaction reasons and ensure regulatory compliance. Select the correct PoP code to prevent processing delays. 

Alternative Ways to Send Money Internationally – Cryptocurrency Transfer

Cryptocurrency transfers offer a faster and cheaper way to send money internationally by avoiding traditional banks. Digital currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum enable peer-to-peer transactions through blockchain technology, making them appealing for tech-savvy users. 

These transfers can be more cost-effective, especially for larger sums, and are accessible without a traditional banking system. While they provide secure transactions, cryptocurrencies also carry regulatory risks and potential volatility, which can affect the final amount received.

Cryptocurrency transfers carry several risks, including high volatility and varying regulations by country, with some imposing strict rules or bans. Transactions, once confirmed, are irreversible, making recovery of funds sent to the wrong address impossible. 

In the UAE, cryptocurrency is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) and the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), with platforms like BitOasis and Binance facilitating trading and transfers.

Summing Up

Mobile money transfers are convenient, fast, and cost-effective. They let you send money anytime, anywhere. Plus, UAE regulations ensure your money is handled safely.

Still using traditional methods? Switch to Payit Money Transfers for a hassle-free experience. Switch towards ease today, and enjoy exclusive deals and discounts!

FAQs

What is mobile money transfer?

Mobile money transfer is sending or receiving money electronically using a mobile phone.

What is the difference between mobile banking and mobile money transfer?

Mobile banking involves accessing bank services via a mobile app, while mobile money transfer enables transactions without needing a bank account through mobile wallets.

What is the best app to transfer money internationally?

The Payit mobile wallet app is the best international money transfer app offering you competitive rates, faster transfers, and doesn’t need a bank account.

What is the limit on mobile money transfer?

The limit varies by service provider and country regulations, typically ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per transaction.

Can you transfer money from mobile money to a bank account?

Yes, most mobile money services allow transfers to linked bank accounts.