Thunes and First Abu Dhabi Bank Unite to Transform Cross-Border Payments in the Middle East
Thunes and First Abu Dhabi Bank Revolutionize Cross-Border Payments
In a groundbreaking move for the financial services landscape, Thunes, a leading money transfer technology provider, has teamed up with First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the largest bank in the UAE, to empower real-time cross-border payments across an extensive network. This collaboration will not only enhance financial accessibility for individuals but also align with national initiatives aimed at improving digital transactions in the UAE.
The Innovative Partnership
Announced on November 18, 2025, this partnership brings together two giants in their respective domains. Thunes facilitates secure, swift transactions between multiple global platforms, while FAB stands as a robust banking entity recognized for its reliability and innovation. Together, they aim to provide seamless mobile wallet payouts through Thunes' Direct Global Network, which connects to over 7 billion mobile wallets and bank accounts around the globe.
The integration of these services is expected to allow FAB customers to effortlessly send and receive payments in real-time across more than 130 countries. This feat marks a significant step towards global interoperability in financial transactions, ensuring that clients have access to transparent and efficient payment methods.
Aligning with Strategic Goals
This partnership resonates with the goals of two pivotal initiatives in the UAE: "We the UAE 2031" and the "Central Bank's Financial Infrastructure Transformation (FIT)" programme. Both initiatives focus on fostering a progressive environment for digital innovation, and enhancing financial inclusion throughout the region. By collaborating with Thunes, FAB is demonstrating its commitment to these national objectives, setting a benchmark for the future of financial technology.
According to Simon Nelson, Chief Commercial Officer at Thunes, FAB’s entry into their Direct Global Network “is a clear vote of confidence in Thunes' ability to deliver global interoperability at scale.” This sentiment reflects both companies' dedication to making cross-border payments not just faster, but also more accessible to everyday users.
Customer-Centric Technology
Thunes is recognized for its extensive network capabilities and real-time payment solutions, having established itself as a trusted partner for international payment innovations. This collaboration can be seen as a response to the growing need for speed and efficiency in financial transactions, particularly as more consumers turn to digital wallets and other fintech solutions.
The service will be designed with the user experience in mind, enabling a modern transaction process that prioritizes not just speed but also security and customer satisfaction. The innovative payment experience aims to ensure a hassle-free process for users across the UAE and beyond.
Conclusion
As Thunes and First Abu Dhabi Bank join forces, they set a precedent for other banks and financial institutions in the region. This partnership not only enhances the capabilities of each organizaiton but also stands to significantly impact the way that consumers and businesses engage in financial transactions globally. With the integration of advanced payment solutions, the future looks bright for cross-border payments in the Middle East.