GDRFA Dubai and Dubai Finance Department Sign MoU to Support “Cashless Dubai” Initiatives and Accelerators

In a step that reflects Dubai’s commitment to strengthening its position as a global capital of the digital economy, the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA Dubai) and the Dubai Finance Department signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at supporting digital payment initiatives, facilitating secure and efficient financial transactions, and expanding digital payment channels in line with the “Cashless Dubai” strategy.

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, launched this strategy in October last year. It aims to increase the share of financial transactions carried out through digital channels in both the government and private sectors to 90% of all transactions, and to achieve full digital enablement at 100% across the emirate by the end of next year, 2026. The strategy also supports innovation and governance systems and contributes to building a sustainable financial ecosystem that strengthens Dubai’s position among the world’s top five cities in adopting digital payments.

His Excellency Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director General of Dubai Finance Department, affirmed that the MoU with GDRFA Dubai is “a model of institutional integration between government entities in pursuit of the vision of our wise leadership.” He emphasized the vital role of GDRFA Dubai in supporting the Cashless Dubai strategy, adding: “We are moving forward with strengthening the adoption of non-cash payments in line with the goals of Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), by contributing to the creation of an advanced and secure payment environment across both public and private sectors—an environment that supports the national economy and meets the needs of individuals and businesses.”

For his part, His Excellency Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA Dubai, affirmed:
“We regard this partnership with the Department of Finance as a strategic step that reflects our commitment to the ‘Human First’ approach, by providing smart, secure financial services that simplify people’s lives and support their aspirations. Enhancing the digital payment ecosystem is not merely about technological development; it is an investment in the future of Dubai as a globally leading city in innovation and digital readiness.”

The MoU focuses on developing digital infrastructure, adopting the latest financial technologies, and exchanging knowledge and expertise between both parties, in addition to launching awareness campaigns that build public trust in digital solutions and support the transition toward a more sustainable and efficient economy.

Amina Mohammed Lootah, Director of Digital Payment Systems Regulation, affirmed that the MoU reflects the Government of Dubai’s approach to building pioneering government partnerships rooted in innovation and strengthening trust between government entities and customers. She praised GDRFA Dubai’s vital role in raising community awareness of the importance of adopting diverse, convenient, and secure digital payment methods and financial transfers. She stated: “High-level cooperation between Dubai government entities under the umbrella of the Cashless Dubai strategy will contribute to boosting economic growth by adding no less than AED 8 billion annually to the emirate’s economy, through the development of a wide range of innovative fintech services and by accelerating the growth of the fintech sector in Dubai.”

This MoU embodies Dubai’s approach to building pioneering government partnerships rooted in innovation and reinforcing trust between government entities and customers, thereby consolidating the emirate’s position as an integrated smart city that provides an ideal environment for work, life, and prosperity.