du Pay tops AED 1.5bn in digital transactions as UAE pushes towards cashless future

du Pay, the digital financial services arm of telecom operator du, has exceeded AED1.5bn in processed transactions in under two years, a milestone the company says reflects both its own momentum and the UAE’s broader shift towards a cashless economy.

The platform, launched to provide accessible banking-style services to residents who may not meet traditional account requirements, has seen strong uptake among the country’s diverse expatriate population.

du Pay said its offering supports the Dubai Department of Finance’s ambition to make 90 per cent of all transactions in the emirate cashless by 2026.

du Pay transactions

Fahad Al Hassawi, chairman of du Pay, said: “Reaching AED 1.5 billion in transactions represents our commitment to financial inclusion and digital transformation in the UAE. We aim to empower residents to participate fully in the digital economy and offering comprehensive digital payment solutions, while supporting the nation’s vision for a cashless future.”

The company positions du Pay as a simple, secure and inclusive tool for managing money. Users can onboard instantly using Emirates ID and facial recognition, access the app in multiple languages and complete day-to-day financial tasks without traditional banking barriers.

The service provides customers with a free IBAN, enabling salary deposits via local bank transfers, and does not require a minimum balance.

According to du Pay, the app has surpassed one million downloads and has facilitated payments, mobile top ups, bill settlements and cardless cash withdrawals. The firm said customers can send money to more than 200 countries at competitive rates, reflecting its focus on the remittance needs of expat workers.

The company also highlights its Central Bank of the UAE licensing and security infrastructure as key elements in building trust among new users. Promotional incentives, including free mobile data on recharges or international transfers and gold coin giveaways, have contributed to engagement, with more than 300 customers already receiving gold coins.

FinTech growth

du Pay said its growth has been driven by serving underbanked communities that have historically faced limited access to financial services. The platform argues that its model supports national digital transformation goals by offering an alternative pathway into the formal financial system.

The milestone underscores du Pay’s emergence as an active player in the UAE’s fast-growing fintech sector, where digital payments adoption continues to accelerate across both consumer and business segments.