Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) announced the signing of a partnership with the Ministry of Interior (MOI) to allow opening of accounts remotely and digitally.

Through secure access to the Ministry's Facial Recognition verification system, ADIB becomes the first bank in the UAE to perform instant and highly secure verification before opening a new account.

ADIB’s new service, offered in partnership with MOI, helps to verify the account opener’s identity details by using the MOI facial recognition system. The verification process is seamless, efficient and uses enhanced security measures against fraud and other forms of identity theft.

The technology will enable UAE citizens and residents to open a new ADIB account remotely giving them instant access to banking services without the need to visit the bank.

“The use of facial recognition system is key step for ADIB towards the implementation of emerging technologies based on Artificial Intelligence (AI). Thus, in line with UAE’s digital agenda, we have been introducing digital solutions over the years that provide convenient and more seamless way to bank,” said Sameh Awadallah, Head of ADIB’s Branch Network.

Facial recognition system service is currently available on the ADIB mobile banking app for account opening. To open an account, UAE residents can download the ADIB mobile application and follow the instructions by simply taking a personal photo, scanning the passport and tapping the Emirates ID card on the device for the app to read its data from the built-in chip using Near Field Communication, (NFC).

The tool will scan the user’s face, which will be matched against the ministry’s facial recognition system instantly. Upon successful matching, ADIB will send an SMS-OTP to the user’s registered mobile number for verification, after which the user may create his/her preferred credentials.

“We are pleased to partner with ADIB to provide digital solutions that enhance the digital agenda of the UAE. This is in line with Ministry of Interior’s efforts to enhance the efficiency of services, as well as support UAE banks in strengthening the security and safety of their digital services against threats of cybercrime.” We look forward to building more impactful services with the financial sector and beyond, to bring greater convenience to UAE residents,” said Lt. Colonel Dr. Ahmed Saeed Al Shamsi, Head of the Artificial Intelligence Systems and Services Development Team at General Directorate of Security Support, UAE Ministry of Interior.