Citibank temporarily closes its branches in the UAE as regional tensions escalate / Photo: File
Global banking giant Citibank has temporarily closed several of its branches and financial centers across the UAE as a precautionary measure amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The move affects most Citi branches across the country for a short period in mid-March, as financial institutions in the Gulf region tighten security measures to protect employees and customers during the ongoing crisis.
Citibank UAE branches are temporarily closed
According to the bank’s announcement, most of Citibank’s branches and financial centers across the UAE will remain closed from March 12 to 14 as part of the precautionary response to the evolving regional situation.
The bank said it expects to reopen the affected sites on March 16 once the situation stabilizes. However, during the temporary closure, one branch located in Mall of the Emirates will continue to operate, ensuring customers continue to have access to personal banking services if required.Customers can also continue to use digital banking, ATMs and online platforms to carry out routine transactions during the lockdown period.
Regional security concerns are driving banking action
The temporary closure comes amid escalating tensions across the Middle East in the wake of threats linked to the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict, which has raised concerns among companies and financial institutions operating in the Gulf.In response to the situation, Citigroup, the parent company of Citibank, has asked employees at its offices in the Dubai International Financial Center and Oud Metha to work from home until further notice.
This measure aims to reduce risks while maintaining normal banking operations remotely.The Gulf region hosts hundreds of global financial companies, which are adopting precautionary measures such as remote work and temporary branch closures to prioritize employee safety.
Mall of the Emirates branch is still open
While most branches are temporarily closed, Citibank has confirmed that one branch in Dubai will remain open to assist customers who require personal banking services during the precautionary closure period.The operational branch is located in Mall of the Emirates, one of the main commercial centers in the city. The branch is expected to operate during normal business hours, typically 10am to 4pm, although customers are advised to check in advance for any updated timings before visiting.During this period, the branch will handle basic banking services, including account-related enquiries, urgent financial transactions, card-related issues, and general customer assistance.
However, customers may experience longer waiting times due to limited availability of personal service across the bank’s network in the UAE.To reduce congestion and ensure smoother service, the bank encourages customers to rely on ATMs, online banking and mobile banking platforms to conduct routine transactions such as transfers, bill payments and balance checks. These digital services remain fully operational and available 24/7.
Other global banks are taking similar precautions
Citibank is not the only financial institution adjusting its operations in response to the security situation. Reports indicate that Standard Chartered has also taken steps to evacuate staff from some Dubai offices and move employees to remote working arrangements.Meanwhile, HSBC has temporarily closed its branches in Qatar as part of wider precautionary measures in the region.These measures highlight how global financial institutions are closely monitoring the situation and adjusting operations to ensure safety while maintaining essential services.
