Global banking giant Citibank has temporarily closed several of its branches and financial centers in the UAE as a precautionary measure amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The move affects most Citi branches nationwide for a short period in mid-March, as financial institutions in the Bay Area 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 Citibank branches and financial centers in the UAE will remain closed from March 12 to March 14 as a precautionary response to the evolving regional situation.The bank said it expects to reopen the affected locations on March 16 once the situation stabilizes. However, during the temporary closure, a branch located at the Mall of the Emirates will continue to operate, ensuring that customers still have access to in-person banking services if necessary.Customers can continue to use digital banking services, ATMs and online platforms to conduct regular transactions during the closure period.
Regional security concerns prompt banking measures
The temporary closure comes amid rising tensions across the Middle East following threats linked to the Iran-Israel conflict, which has raised concerns for businesses and financial institutions operating in the Gulf.In response to the situation, Citibank’s parent company Citigroup has also asked employees at its offices in Dubai International Financial Center and Oud Metha to work from home until further notice. This measure aims to reduce risk while maintaining normal banking operations remotely.The Gulf region hosts hundreds of international financial firms, which are adopting precautionary measures such as remote work and temporary branch closures to prioritize employee safety.
Mall of the Emirates branch remains open
While most branches are temporarily closed, Citibank has confirmed that a branch in Dubai will remain open to assist customers who require in-person banking services during the precautionary shutdown period.The operational branch is located in the Mall of the Emirates, one of the major commercial centers in the city. The branch is expected to operate during regular banking hours, typically 10am to 4pm, although customers are advised to check any updated timings before visiting.During this period, the branch will handle essential banking services, including account enquiries, instant financial transactions, card related issues and general customer support. However, customers may experience longer wait times due to limited personal service availability across the Bank’s UAE network.To reduce congestion and ensure smooth service, the Bank is encouraging customers to rely on ATMs, online banking and mobile banking platforms for routine transactions such as transfers, bill payments and balance checks. These digital services are fully operational and available 24/7.
Other global banks take similar precautions
Citibank is not the only financial institution to adjust operations in response to the security situation. Reports indicate that Standard Chartered has also taken steps to lay off staff from some Dubai offices and shift employees to remote working arrangements.Meanwhile, HSBC temporarily closed its branches in Qatar as part of wider precautionary measures in the region.These actions highlight how global financial institutions are closely monitoring the situation and adjusting operations to ensure security while maintaining essential services.