Millions of people living in the UAE, especially expats, send money to their families in India, Pakistan, the Philippines, or other countries. Emirates NBD’s Direct Remit service provides free and instant transfers to customers. Emirates NBD in the UAE will charge a fee of AED 26.25 on every international transfer from September 2025, which is trending. Many expats in the UAE seek convenient and cost-effective banking options for expats in uae, and the introduction of this fee may prompt them to explore alternative services. As competition among banks increases, customers may benefit from additional promotions and features in the remittance space. This shift highlights the importance of staying informed about various financial services available to ensure optimal money transfer solutions.
This news is causing a lot of trouble for many people, especially expats who have to transfer money to their loved ones every month. If you are wondering how this will affect you and how to avoid it, then this article is for you. As the situation evolves, it’s essential for expats to stay informed about their financial options and strategies to minimize disruptions. Additionally, understanding how to check hafilat card balance can be crucial for managing expenses effectively. By staying proactive and exploring available resources, you can ensure that your financial transactions remain smooth and reliable. Moreover, for those relying on local payment methods, knowing your al ansari salary card balance can help you manage your monthly budgets effectively. It’s also advisable to explore various remittance services that offer competitive rates, ensuring you send money home without incurring high fees. By integrating these strategies into your financial planning, you can adapt to changing circumstances more efficiently.
Also Read: Open Emirates NBD Salary Account Using Quick Guide
What is the new fee for Emeritus NBD?
Leading UAE bank Emirates NBD is ending free transfers for its Direct Remittance service. Here are the key takeaways: This decision comes as the bank aligns its operations with the ongoing UAE Central Bank AML crackdown, which aims to strengthen anti-money laundering measures across the financial sector. Customers are encouraged to explore alternative remittance options or prepare for the potential fees associated with their transactions. The shift may reflect the broader regulatory environment that emphasizes compliance and vigilance in financial practices. Additionally, the change in the Direct Remittance service may coincide with other recent trends among UAE banks minimum balance increase policies, which aim to enhance profitability amidst tightening regulations. As financial institutions adapt to new compliance requirements, customers may need to adjust their banking strategies accordingly. It is advisable for customers to stay informed about potential changes in fees and services that could impact their financial planning.
Effective September 1, 2025, a flat fee of AED 26.25 (including VAT) will be charged on every international transfer. This fee will apply to transfers made through the ENBD X mobile app or online banking. Customers should also be aware of the verification processes that may be involved with international transfers, including compliance with regulations regarding what is know your customer. This means that users may need to provide additional documentation to ensure the legitimacy of their transactions. It is advisable to check with ENBD for any specific requirements or updates to the process ahead of making transfers. Additionally, customers should familiarize themselves with how to check insurance with emirates id, as this may be required for certain transfers or financial transactions. Staying updated on the latest regulations and requirements will help streamline the process and avoid delays. It is recommended to regularly review ENBD’s official communications for any changes that might impact international transfer guidelines.
Previously, Direct Remit, which was free for transfers of AED 100 or more to countries like India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Egypt, Sri Lanka, and the UK, made it easier for people to transfer money, but it will now be subject to this fee. This change has raised concerns among users who relied on the service for economical remittances. Additionally, it highlights the importance of budgeting for fees when sending money abroad, which can impact financial planning. For those looking to manage their finances more effectively, understanding how to check your credit score can be an essential step toward maintaining good financial health. With the introduction of transfer fees, users may need to explore alternative financial tools in the uae that offer more competitive rates for remittances. This shift could encourage individuals to become more proactive in seeking out options that suit their needs, ultimately leading to better financial decisions. Additionally, leveraging these tools can help users enhance their overall financial literacy and improve their budgeting strategies.
Not only the charger, but also some percentage of the commission will have to be paid:
- A 1.99% commission will be charged on each transfer.
- There will be a margin on the exchange rate from 0.2 to 4.6%, which will be higher for less-used currencies like the Nepalese rupee or the Indonesian rupiah.
- If a third bank is involved, additional fees ranging from AED 40 to 400 may apply, depending on the currency, destination, and amount of the transfer.
- If a third bank is involved, there may be an additional fee of AED 40 to 400, depending on the currency, destination, and amount of the transfer.
- If you visit a bank branch to transfer foreign currency, there will be a fee of AED 78.80, while online transfers to Emirates NBD accounts are free.
This change brings Emirates NBD in line with other banks in the UAE, where international transfer fees typically range between AED 20 and 60. This adjustment reflects the bank’s commitment to competitive pricing and accessibility for its customers. With lower transfer fees, individuals and businesses can better allocate their resources, potentially exploring alternative investment opportunities in UAE. Such options can enhance financial growth and improve overall economic engagement within the region. Additionally, as customers manage their finances more efficiently, they may also seek to understand their available funds better. For instance, knowing how to check ratibi card balance can empower users to make informed decisions as they explore new investment avenues. This knowledge ultimately contributes to a more financially literate community, fostering sustainable growth and innovation in the UAE’s economy.
The end of free remittances has been a hot topic of discussion on social media, especially X. Users such as @khaleejtimes and @digismarties have highlighted people's frustration.
How will this affect you?
If you use Direct Remit, the AED 26.25 fee could impact your budget. For example:
- If you send AED 1,000 to India every month, it will cost you an additional AED 315 per year.
- If you add FX margin (e.g., 2 percent) and correspondent fees (e.g., AED 40), the total cost for a transfer of AED 1,000 could be over AED 60.
This change will particularly affect people who:
- Make frequent transfers: Small, regular transfers will be more expensive.
- Send small amounts: The flat fee puts a higher burden on small amounts.
- Expat communities: Workers from India, Pakistan, and the Philippines will face higher costs.
How to reduce remittance costs?
Don’t worry, you can keep your transfers cheap. Here are some practical ways:
Compare with other services
- Platforms like Wise, Remitly, or Hubpay often offer lower fees and better exchange rates. For example:
- Wise: Transparent fees (often under AED 10) and mid-market exchange rates.
- Remitly: Good rates for the Philippines or India.
Use tools like Monito to find the cheapest option for your destination.
If you have any questions or need help choosing a remittance service, comment below or contact Emirates NBD support. Move your money smartly! Our team is here to assist you with any inquiries you may have. Additionally, if you’re interested in managing your transactions more efficiently, we can provide guidance on how to open a du pay account. Stay informed and make the most of your financial decisions! If you’re considering changing your banking services, we can also help with information on how to close a Mashreq Neo account. It’s important to ensure a smooth transition, and our experts are available to guide you through the process. Remember, making informed choices will lead to better financial management!
