Getting verified in the UAE

We need to verify your identity before you make a transfer from Emirati Dirhams (AED). It’s how we keep your money safe and comply with regulations.

We’ll always ask for 2 types of documents when you set up and fund your first transfer from AED:

• Your ID document

• A selfie with ID

We might also ask for a proof of address from you too.

What documents can I use for my ID? 

We can only accept these documents to verify your identity:

• Passport (photo page only)

• Emirates ID

We can’t make any exceptions, and in some cases, we’ll need both — so be sure to have both documents ready.

How does selfie verification work?

For transfers from AED, we require a selfie with ID. This means uploading a picture of yourself (a selfie) while holding your ID.

Find out more about selfie verification.

What documents can I use for my proof of address?

Your address must always be a residential address, but you don’t need to live in the UAE to pay for a transfer from AED. If you live in the UAE, we can’t accept some documents you’d typically use.

We can accept these documents to verify your address:

• Tenancy contract or agreement; we need to see the full copy, including signatures of both parties

• Bank statement

• Local authority tax bill

• Driving license with address on it

• Utility bill (e.g. electricity, water, telecommunications)

• Letter by employer or employment contract (should not be more than one month old)

We can’t accept these documents to verify your address:

• UAE driving licenses; these licenses don’t show addresses

• PO boxes

• Documents in non-Latin text

Your proof of address should show:

• Your name and address: matching the information your Wise account

• Date of issue

• A logo, or clear name of the sender: like your bank, your local authority, your utilities provider, etc

• The nature of the document: like the type of bill, subject of the letter, etc