UPI Goes Global: UAE-based Indians can now transfer money without Indian number. world News
In the UAE, Indian Extes has long rely on the Integrated Payment Interface (UPI), which is during travel to India for quick, spontaneous payment. Now, non -resident Indians (NRIs) no longer need an Indian mobile number to reach this service. UPI can now be linked to international phone numbers, including those issued in the United Arab Emirates. Without the need to enter the UPI bank details, immediate money transfer is allowed for 24/7. Payment can only be made by scanning the QR code or by entering the recipient’s phone number or UPI ID.
Who can use UPI?
To reach UPI services, NRI must be with a non-resident external (NRE) or NRI (NRA) account with a participating Indian bank. The international phone number connected to this account should also be registered with the bank and the account of the account is completed. The development follows an agreement signed on an agreement during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to UAE in February 2024, which expands UPI access to foreign Indians.
Banks supporting UPI on international numbers
Many Indian banks have enabled UPI services for NRIs using international mobile numbers. This includes:
-
HDFC Bank - ICICI Bank
- Axis bank
- Federal bank
- state Bank of India
- Punjab national bank
- Canra bank
- Indesind bank
- Kotak Mahindra Bank
- IDFC First Bank
- AU short finance bank
- Equitas short finance bank
- City union bank
- South indian bank
- Yes bank
- DBS bank limited
How to use UPI from UAE
To transfer funds to an Indian recipient from Indian bank account connected to UAE, users can do:
- Use UPI feature available in your bank’s mobile app
- Use approved digital payment apps like HonePe or BHIM
Some banks supporting UPI from abroad include:
- Fedmobile (federal bank)
- Imobile (ICICI Bank)
- Bhima Sindhu Pay (Indusind Bank)
- SIB Mirror+ (South Indian Bank)
- Bhima AU (AU Small Finance Bank)
Registration process
- Make sure your NRE/NRO account is KYC-corresponding
- Link your UAE mobile number to account
- Download a participating bank app or UPI app
- Complete registration with your international mobile number
- Start sending money using UPI ID or QR Code
According to most banks, the standard UPI daily transaction limit is ₹ 100,000 (about DH4,400). High boundaries may apply to cases of specific use based on the bank.
What can you pay for?
NRIS using UPI:
- Pay directly to Indian traders
- Scan the Indian QR code while living abroad
- Transfer money to Indian bank accounts or mobile number
- Pay to international traders in supported countries (eg UAE)
Banks like ICICI and HDFC have confirmed that these features are available to their NRI customers. UAE-based Indians can now pay utility bills, school fees or any domestic expenses in India without the bet of many platforms or SIM cards. This is an important step for financial inclusion and ease of access to the global Indian community.
