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Can a bank freeze an account without any notice or communication?

Dear Sir/Madam,

Can the bank freeze/restrict my account without any notice or communication?

Even when I reached out for the reason, they didn’t respond.

P.S. I don't have a loan, I don't have credit cards, I haven't changed jobs, and I've had the account since 2021 with almost identical transactions for the past three years.

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Alawi Aljaberi Advocates & Legal Consultants
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2 Apr 2024, 06:31

Yes, they can due to non-activity.

2 Apr 2024, 06:34

But it is active; I am using the account. I even get my salary transferred each month.

2 Apr 2024, 06:41

Better to check with the system.

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Jassim Ali Al Haddad Lawyers and Legal Consultants
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2 Apr 2024, 06:49

Dear Questioner,

You must contact the bank to find out the reason for the freeze. There may be documents required of you that you must submit to the bank, or the freeze may have been based on a court decision.

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KHE Legal Consultancy
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2 Apr 2024, 07:11

Dear questioner,

Please send an email regarding the same to seek clarification on the freezing, and please check whether any fraudulent transactions have occurred without your knowledge.

This action might be a preventive measure from the bank's side to avoid suspicious activities. If there is no reply from the bank to your email, raise a dispute with the Central Bank.

If you need further clarification on the matter, please share your WhatsApp number.

2 Apr 2024, 07:17

No fraudulent transactions have occurred. Yes, I have already sent an email, called the bank, and visited the branch, yet there is still no reasonable explanation from them.

I will raise a dispute with the Central Bank.

Thanks for the advice!

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Amiri Advocates & Legal Consultants
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2 Apr 2024, 19:29

The bank has the right to freeze the account if they suspect some transactions.

You should contact them and verify with them.

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Shamsa Albedwawi Advocates & Legal Consultants
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3 Apr 2024, 06:59

Dear Questioner,

According to UAE law, banks have the right to freeze or restrict a customer's account without prior notice or communication if they suspect any fraudulent or suspicious activity.

This is to protect the customer's funds and prevent any potential financial crimes. However, the bank is required to inform the customer of the reason for the freeze or restriction as soon as possible.

If you have reached out to the bank and they have not responded, you can file a complaint with the Central Bank of the UAE or seek legal advice.

It is important to note that the bank may also freeze or restrict an account if the customer fails to comply with their terms and conditions, such as not maintaining a minimum balance or providing updated personal information.

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