UAE banks will stop sending One-Time Passwords (OTPs) via SMS for online payments starting January 6, 2026. This move, guided by the Central Bank of the UAE, aims to enhance security against fraud like SIM swapping, phishing, and SMS interception. Instead of text codes, customers will receive push notifications on their bank apps to approve payments. Users will verify purchases by biometric methods such as Face ID or fingerprint, or a secure PIN. This new system does not rely on telephone networks, making it safer and more reliable, especially for travelers. Residents should update their banking apps, enable notifications, and set up biometric login before the deadline. Without this setup, online card payments using SMS OTPs will be blocked. The Central Bank has set March 2026 as the final deadline to phase out SMS and email OTPs. This change strengthens the UAE's digital banking security, protecting customers from growing online fraud. By adopting in-app authentication, banks aim to make payments faster, safer, and more convenient for everyone.