UAE Open Finance Payment starts a new era as Lean Technologies and Ziina roll out the country’s first live customer-initiated transfers. Users now send money directly from bank accounts with speed and security, thanks to the Central Bank of the UAE’s rules.​
Teams Up for Fast Transfers
Lean Technologies leads as MENA’s main financial infrastructure provider. Ziina, a UAE payments app for people and businesses, joins forces with them. App users link their banks and start account-to-account payments through safe APIs. No more manual steps or app switches money moves right away with full clarity.​
Ziina got the Stored Value Facility license first, making it the pioneer for these live payments. Customers open the app, connect banks, and finish transfers in seconds. This cuts costs, speeds things up, and builds trust in digital money moves.​
Rules Make It Work
The Central Bank of the UAE created the Open Finance framework. It uses regulated APIs to link banks without delays or extra charges. Ziina’s full launch proves the system handles real daily use for thousands.​
This fits UAE’s push for modern banking in the Gulf. Direct transfers help users and businesses skip old card fees and waits. Fintech grows stronger with tools like these.​
Leaders Share Thoughts
Hisham Al-Falih, CEO of Lean Technologies, says this launch marks a big step for the market. He thanks the Central Bank’s plan and Ziina’s quick work for solid links and real outcomes. The team shows Open Finance lives up to its goal.​
Faisal Toukan, Ziina’s Co-founder and CEO, points out how API payments change daily habits. He credits the rules for trust through fast, clear flows. Lean Technologies made it happen live.​
Sets Gulf Standard
UAE Open Finance Payment leads the way for neighbors. Fintech companies now test secure bank links at scale. Users get smooth tools that match world-class levels, all under strong oversight.​
The launch happened in mid-January 2026, with live use across banks. No fees, no fuss, just instant sends. Businesses save time; people pay friends or bills more easily. Regulators watch to keep it safe as more join.​ This builds on the UAE’s fintech rise. Open Finance opens data and payments safely, unlike closed systems. Lean and Ziina set the pace others follow soon. Watch for wider bank ties and new apps in the months ahead.​
