Forecast: Number of ATMs (Automated Teller Machines) in United Arab Emirates

The number of ATMs in the United Arab Emirates has shown significant fluctuations over the years. From 2013 to 2016, there was a consistent increase, reaching a peak in 2016. This was followed by a series of declines from 2017 to 2021, largely attributed to disruptive events in the financial sector and changes in consumer behavior with the rise of digital payments. A significant bounce back occurred in 2022, with a notable increase of 23.5% year-on-year, bringing the value to 66.13 ATMs per hundred thousand persons in 2023.

Looking ahead, the forecasted data for 2024-2028 suggests a modest annual growth, with a forecasted 5-year CAGR of 0.31% and a growth rate of 1.56% by 2028. Such trends point to a stabilization in the number of ATMs, influenced by the interplay between digital banking growth and the ongoing demand for physical banking infrastructure.

Future trends to watch for include:

• The impact of digital banking and contactless payment methods on ATM usage.
• Innovations in ATM technology, such as multifunctional capabilities beyond cash dispensing.
• Regulatory changes that might affect financial infrastructure and accessibility.
• Consumer preferences and their evolving relationship with physical banking services.