The United Arab Emirates remains one of the world’s most digitally connected nations, with almost all residents regularly using online services and an increasing number calling for stronger cybersecurity protections as digital payments and internet-based services become part of everyday life, according to a new global study.
The research, conducted by Ipsos BVA on behalf of Idemia Secure Transactions (IST) across 11 countries, found that 97% of UAE residents frequently use digital services. It also revealed that 79% complete most of their daily activities online or through smartphones, reflecting the country’s continued progress in digital transformation.
The findings coincide with the UAE’s ongoing implementation of its National Cyber Security Strategy 2025-2031, alongside regulatory initiatives aimed at strengthening digital payments, financial technology and online security.
The study indicates that consumers increasingly view cybersecurity as a core feature of digital platforms rather than an optional service. Around 40% of respondents identified security as the most important factor when choosing between digital services, placing it ahead of several traditional user experience considerations.
Demand for stronger identity verification methods is also rising. According to the report, 86% of UAE respondents would like to use their physical payment cards as a secure authentication tool when verifying their identity online. Another 85% said they want banking applications to display all websites and mobile applications connected to their payment cards, giving them greater visibility and control over their digital accounts.
Researchers said these preferences highlight changing consumer expectations as concerns about online fraud and cybercrime continue to grow alongside increasing digital adoption.
The report also examined attitudes toward emerging technologies and their impact on online security. Around 61% of UAE participants believe artificial intelligence is making cyberattacks more advanced and difficult to detect. Among respondents familiar with quantum computing, 83% consider the technology a potential cybersecurity challenge that will require stronger protection measures in the future.
Marc Bertin, Chief Technology Officer at Idemia Secure Transactions, said the UAE has established itself as one of the world’s leading digital economies, making public trust essential to sustaining future growth.
He said that as digital ecosystems become increasingly interconnected and technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing continue to evolve, maintaining confidence in digital platforms will become one of the key challenges for businesses, financial institutions and governments.
The study also highlighted the growing importance of technologies such as encryption, authentication and tokenisation in protecting personal information and financial transactions. Researchers said these security tools will remain central to safeguarding consumers while allowing digital services to remain convenient and accessible.
With digital payments, online banking, government services and e-commerce continuing to expand across the UAE, the report suggests that residents increasingly expect strong cybersecurity protections to be built into every stage of the digital experience, reinforcing trust as the country’s digital economy continues to grow.
