For expatriates in the UAE, sending money to family or investments abroad is more than just a financial transfer—it plays a key role in supporting household income, contributing to foreign currency inflows, and helping maintain economic stability. Traditionally, international transfers through banks were costly, slow, and cumbersome. Today, digital platforms and mobile apps have made sending money faster, easier, and much more affordable.

Several apps now allow expats to transfer money internationally without needing a bank account. Most of these services charge minimal or no fees, require no registration fees, and have no minimum balance requirements. The only essentials are an active UAE mobile number and a debit or credit card with online banking access. Here’s a closer look at the most popular options:

Botim Initially known as a VoIP calling app, Botim expanded into fintech and now enables money transfers to over 170 countries, including India, Pakistan, and the Philippines. Users can send funds directly to bank accounts or mobile wallets and track transactions through Botim’s integrated wallet system.

Key features:

• Competitive exchange rates

• Low to zero fees for selected corridors

• 24/7 availability with real-time tracking

Careem Pay Launched in 2022, Careem Pay offers peer-to-peer transfers to over 30 countries. Users can send money using a phone number, personal QR code, or payment link—no IBAN required. Transfers are faster and up to 50% cheaper than traditional banks, with limits of Dh45,000 per transaction and Dh135,000 monthly.

Key features:

• Low-cost international transfers

• Instant or same-day delivery in select corridors

• User-friendly interface with multilingual support

e& money Formerly Etisalat Wallet, e& money allows expats to send funds abroad with minimal fees. Licensed by the UAE Central Bank, the app supports transfers to over 200 countries and offers additional services such as bill payments, top-ups, card payments, and digital gifting.

Key features:

• Regulated by the UAE Central Bank

• Transfers to bank accounts and mobile wallets

• Wide range of financial services in-app

Taptap Send Taptap Send is designed for fast, low-fee remittances, particularly to Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. It is known for zero transfer fees in many corridors and near-instant delivery.

Key features:

• No transfer fees in major corridors

• Competitive exchange rates

• Quick, often immediate, delivery

LuLu Money LuLu Money enables secure transfers to over 170 countries. The app offers flexible payout options, real-time exchange rate tracking, and rewards such as loyalty points for regular users.

Al Ansari Exchange App This fully digital platform allows money transfers, prepaid card management, bill payments, and more. Users can send money via multiple methods, including credit/debit cards, online transfers, and even cash at branches. The app is regulated by the UAE Central Bank and offers real-time rates and robust security features.

Unimoni App Previously UAE Exchange, Unimoni operates in over 30 countries and provides transparent transfers with upfront fee disclosures. The app uses live mid-market rates and small markups instead of flat fees, ensuring cost-efficient remittances.

These apps offer UAE expats convenient, secure, and affordable ways to send money internationally without relying on traditional banks. With features like real-time tracking, competitive exchange rates, and minimal fees, expats can manage their finances efficiently while supporting loved ones abroad.

By leveraging these digital solutions, sending money from the UAE has become faster, simpler, and more budget-friendly than ever before.