UAE Introduces Contactless Biometric Payments Under Digital Economy Drive
The initiative was launched through the CBUAE’s Sandbox Programme and Innovation Hub at the Emirates Institute of Finance, in collaboration with Network International, a major fintech company operating across the Middle East and Africa.
The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has unveiled the region’s first biometric payment solution, introducing facial and palm recognition technologies to support the country’s Digital Economy Agenda. The initiative was launched through the CBUAE’s Sandbox Programme and Innovation Hub at the Emirates Institute of Finance, in collaboration with Network International, a major fintech company operating across the Middle East and Africa.
Currently in the proof-of-concept stage, the solution is being demonstrated at the Dubai Land Department, where customers can complete transactions by verifying their identity using facial or palm biometrics. The system removes the need for physical cards or mobile devices, offering a seamless and contactless payment experience. The solution is enabled by Network International and powered by biometric platform PopID.
The initiative reflects the CBUAE’s focus on building a secure, inclusive, and innovation-driven national payments ecosystem. By introducing biometric authentication into payments, the project aims to enhance transaction security while improving convenience and speed for users. It also aligns with the UAE Digital Economy Strategy, which seeks to position the country as a global leader in digital innovation and financial technology.
The rollout highlights growing collaboration between regulators and private sector technology providers in advancing next-generation payment solutions. Biometric payments are expected to play an increasing role in digital commerce by combining identity verification with frictionless customer experiences, supporting the UAE’s ambition to remain at the forefront of financial innovation.
