12 February 2026 | Dubai, UAE [Posted at 9:35 pm ]
The UAE’s fintech world is entering a new phase as e& money to launch digital lending in UAE becomes official following the approval of a Finance Company license from the Central Bank of the UAE. The move signals a strategic shift from digital payments to full-scale financial empowerment.
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e& Money to Launch Digital Lending in UAE: A Major Milestone
Overview: The new license lets e& money to broaden beyond payments into regulated lending services.
With the Central Bank’s approval, the company’s launch of digital lending in UAE is no longer just a fintech ambition — it is now a regulated reality. This milestone marks a transformation from facilitating transactions to unlocking financial opportunities.
Over the years, e& money has built a strong foundation:
- More than 2 million active users
- International remittance services
- Card spending solutions
- Everyday bill payments
- One of the highest active user bases among UAE digital wallets
This scale, combined with customer trust and transaction data, has positioned e& money to confidently expand into credit services.
Integrated Lending, Not Just Loans
Overview: Lending will be embedded into the app experience rather than offered as a separate banking product.
The strategy behind e& money to launch digital lending in UAE focuses on integration. Instead of offering traditional standalone loans, lending will become part of a connected digital financial ecosystem. This approach is designed to:
- Serve underserved segments
- Offer credit within a familiar digital interface
- Reduce paperwork and friction
- Promote financial inclusion
- Support users throughout their financial journey
This move aligns with e& money’s ambition to become a true financial superapp in the UAE.
AI-Driven Credit Assessment Model
Overview: Advanced data analytics and AI will power responsible credit decisions.
At the heart of e& money to launch digital lending in UAE is an AI-powered credit scoring system. Unlike traditional banks that rely heavily on conventional credit history, e& money will leverage:
Here’s how the model works:
- Real transaction behaviour
- Alternative financial data
- Advanced analytics
- Digital usage patterns
- Responsible lending frameworks
Khalifa Al Shamsi, CEO of e& life and e& international, emphasized that in a digitally advanced economy like the UAE, access to credit remains an access issue rather than purely a risk issue. This new approach aims to responsibly extend credit to individuals who may not have previously qualified for loans.
What Lending Products Will Be Offered?
Overview: Lending solutions will roll out gradually in phases.
Under the new framework, e& money to launch digital lending in UAE will introduce multiple products over time. These solutions are designed to be transparent, affordable, and customer-focused.
Before diving into specifics, the company plans a staged rollout. The first wave of offerings may include:
- Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)
- Early wage access
- Credit cards
- Short-term digital credit options
- Additional consumer-focused lending products
Each product will prioritise strong customer protection and regulatory compliance.
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How Does This Compare to du Digital Lending?
Overview: Telecom operators are increasingly entering fintech and digital lending.
While e& money to launch digital lending in UAE is making headlines, du has also been strengthening its digital financial services strategy. Before comparing, it’s important to note that both telecom operators aim at financial inclusion. du digital lending initiatives focus on:
- Leveraging telecom customer data
- Partnering with financial institutions
- Offering embedded fintech solutions
- Supporting SMEs and consumers
- Enhancing digital ecosystem services
However, e& money’s Finance Company license gives it a stronger regulatory footing to directly offer lending solutions rather than relying solely on partnerships. This may provide a competitive edge in scaling digital credit services across the UAE.
Why This Matters for the UAE Market
Overview: The move strengthens the UAE’s fintech ecosystem and supports financial inclusion.
The approval allowing e& money to launch digital lending in UAE reinforces the country’s vision of becoming a global fintech hub. It also supports broader digital transformation goals.
Before concluding, here’s the broader impact:
- Increase access to credit for underserved populations
- Encourage responsible digital borrowing
- Reduce dependency on traditional banking models
- Accelerate fintech innovation
- Strengthen the UAE’s digital economy
As digital ecosystems evolve, telecom-backed fintech platforms are emerging as key drivers of inclusive growth.
FAQs
1. What does e& money to launch digital lending in UAE mean?
It means e& money has received approval from the CBUAE to offer regulated lending products such as BNPL, credit cards, and early wage access.
2. When will the lending services be available?
The services will be introduced in phases, with gradual rollouts of different products.
3. How will credit eligibility be assessed?
Through an AI-driven credit scoring system using transaction behaviour, alternative data, and advanced analytics.
4. Is du offering digital lending in the UAE?
Yes, du digital lending initiatives are also expanding through partnerships and digital ecosystem services.
5. Is digital lending safe in the UAE?
Yes, regulated platforms operating under Central Bank approval must comply with strict consumer protection and transparency guidelines.
Conclusion
The introduction that e& money to launch digital lending in UAE marks a defining moment for the country’s fintech sector. With strong regulatory backing, AI-powered credit assessment, and a focus on financial inclusion, e& money is positioning itself as more than just a digital wallet.
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