Dubai: Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the United Arab Emirates will continue to enjoy free remittance fees when sending money to the Philippines, even as the Emirates National Bank of Dubai (NBD) announced that it will soon charge fees for most international money transfers.

According to Philippines News Agency, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac revealed in a news release that Emirates NBD informed clients it will impose a fixed rate fee of 26.25 UAE dirhams, inclusive of VAT, on most cross-border transactions through its DirectRemit service, effective September 1, 2025. However, the Philippines is among six countries exempted from this new charge, alongside India, Pakistan, Egypt, Sri Lanka, and the United Kingdom.

"We deeply appreciate Emirates NBD for preserving fee-free transfers to the Philippines even as they introduce fees for other destinations. This is a clear sign of their understanding of how essential these remittances are for Filipino households," Cacdac stated. OFWs in the UAE can continue to utilize Emirates NBD DirectRemit for fast and free money transfers to their families in the Philippines.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority indicates that in 2023, approximately 700,000 Filipinos reside in the UAE, with around 600,000 being OFWs. The Philippines remains one of the largest recipients of remittances globally, with millions of families depending on the hard-earned money sent home by OFWs.

Cacdac acknowledged the role of the UAE government and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in creating a supportive environment for migrant workers. "We likewise express our sincere gratitude to the UAE Government and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation for fostering a supportive environment for migrant communities. Their cooperation ensures that OFWs can continue sending financial support to their loved ones without additional costs," he added.