Citibank Branches in UAE to Remain Closed For 3 Days Till March 14 Amid Crisis; Know Impact on Indian Expats

Several branches of Citibank across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been temporarily closed for three days in March as rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East prompt financial institutions to review security arrangements for staff and customers. The precautionary step comes as businesses across the Gulf region assess potential risks linked to the ongoing regional developments.

Citibank Branches in UAE To Remain Closed for Three Days in March; Check Dates

Citibank has suspended operations at most of its physical branches and financial centres in the UAE from March 12 to March 14. The temporary shutdown is part of the bank's safety measures aimed at protecting employees and customers during a period of heightened uncertainty across the Middle East.

When Will Citibank in UAE Restart Operations?

The bank indicated that these outlets are expected to resume normal operations on March 16, provided that regional conditions remain stable and security risks ease.

Citibank Digital Banking Services Remain Available

Despite the closure of most physical branches, Citibank customers in the UAE can continue to access essential banking services through digital channels. The bank confirmed that online banking platforms, mobile applications and ATMs will remain fully operational during the temporary shutdown.

Customers can still perform routine banking activities such as fund transfers, bill payments, balance checks and account monitoring through these digital services, ensuring that day-to-day financial needs are not significantly disrupted.

Citibank Shifts Dubai Office Staff to Work From Home Amid Rising Regional Tensions

In addition to closing branches, Citibank has also instructed employees working at its offices in Dubai International Financial Centre and Oud Metha to shift to remote work until further notice.

The move is intended to reduce security risks while allowing critical banking operations, trading activities and customer services to continue through remote systems and digital infrastructure.

One Branch Remains Open in Dubai

Although most Citibank locations are temporarily shut, the bank has confirmed that one branch in Dubai will continue to serve customers during this period. The operational outlet is located at Mall of the Emirates, a major commercial hub in the city.

The branch is expected to operate during regular banking hours, generally between 10 am and 4 pm, though customers have been advised to check updated timings before visiting as operational hours could change depending on demand or security guidelines.

Staff at the open branch are focusing on priority banking services, including urgent payments, cash withdrawals, card-related issues, account queries and other essential customer support requests. However, customers may experience longer waiting times due to the limited number of branches offering in-person services.

Impact on Indian Expats in Dubai & Other Parts of UAE

The temporary closure could affect a large number of Indian expatriates living and working in the UAE, many of whom rely on Citibank for international banking services such as salary accounts, remittances and cross-border transfers to India.

Indian professionals and workers may face inconvenience if they require in-person banking services, including documentation verification or urgent financial transactions. However, digital platforms are expected to help minimise disruption, allowing expatriates to continue sending money to family members in India through online channels.

Indian expats can use mobile banking and online transfer services during the temporary shutdown and plan any urgent branch visits at the Mall of the Emirates location if necessary.

Iran-Israel Conflict Behind the Move

The decision to temporarily shut branches comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions connected to the Iran-Israel conflict, which has heightened security concerns across the Gulf region.

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