• Source:JND
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To improve financial connectivity for the global Indian diaspora, UPI (Unified Payments Interface) now works with the UAE phone numbers for NRIs based in the UAE, negating the need for an Indian SIM. This update enables money transfers, bill payments, and merchant payments for Indians residing in the UAE on a real-time basis through UPI systems they are accustomed to.

Who Can Use UPI with International Numbers?

Eligible users: NRIs maintaining either a Non-Resident External (NRE) or Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) account

Mobile number: Must be a UAE number registered with the bank

KYC compliance: Mandatory for the associated account

This follows an agreement made during PM Modi’s February 2024 UAE visit that focused on the provision of UPI to Indian residents living abroad.

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Banks Supporting UPI for UAE Mobile Numbers

Some major Indian banks enabling UPI access via international numbers include:

  • HDFC Bank
  • ICICI Bank
  • Axis Bank
  • State Bank of India
  • Federal Bank
  • Punjab National Bank
  • Canara Bank
  • IndusInd Bank
  • Kotak Mahindra Bank
  • IDFC First Bank
  • AU Small Finance Bank
  • Yes Bank
  • Equitas & City Union Bank
  • South Indian Bank
  • DBS Bank Ltd

How to Set It Up

1. Ensure your NRE/NRO account is KYC-compliant

2. Register your UAE mobile number with the bank

3. Download your bank’s mobile app or a UPI app like BHIM or PhonePe

4. Complete UPI registration using your UAE number

5. Start transacting via UPI ID, mobile number, or QR code

Supported Bank Apps for NRIs

FedMobile (Federal Bank)

iMobile Pay (ICICI Bank)

BHIM Indus Pay (IndusInd Bank)

SIB Mirror+ (South Indian Bank)

BHIM AU (AU Small Finance Bank)

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UPI Use Cases for UAE-Based NRIs

  • Make remote payments to Indian merchants.
  • Send funds to Indian phone numbers/bank accounts.
  • Settle school fees, utility bills, or provide family financial support.
  • Utilize scan and pay with Indian QR codes outside India.
  • Make payments to select merchants in the UAE supporting UPI.
  • Maximum transaction limit is ₹1,00,000(AED 4,400) per day.
  • Other banks may allow greater limits for their verified customers.

Why This Matters

This change allows for easier overseas finance management for millions of Indian citizens living in UAE. Elimination of Indian SIMs, multiple accounts, and use of intermediary remittance services. UPI is now more streamlined, immediate, and universally accessible.  

A major boost for financial inclusion and simplicity of living for NRIs.