Guide to Locating Your CIF number in the UAE

An important piece of information that banks need to safely manage your accounts and access your financial details is your Customer Identification File (CIF) number. This number is crucial, whether you need it for online banking, loan applications, or just keeping tabs on your money. 

What is CIF number?

Well, it’s an 8-digit code that gives you vital details about your bank account. This special number serves as a key that lets you access your financial details and makes it easy to manage banking services.Now that you are aware of this number, let's explore how to find CIF numbers with ease.

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How to Find CIF Number?

The process of finding this number significantly depends on your bank. The process of finding out your CIF number Emirates NBD, for instance, would be quite different from seeking your FAB CIF number. For general reference, however, we have provided you with a simple guide that should work in the majority of situations —

Method Description
Check Your Bank Statements Look for the CIF number printed on your bank statements
Access Your Mobile Banking App Navigate to your profile or explore account details
Use Internet Banking You may find this number in the section with your account’s details
Visit Your Bank Branch Go to your home branch to request more details regarding this number
Check Your Chequebook Look for this number printed on your chequebook
Contact Customer Care Connect with your bank’s customer care 

When to Use a CIF Number?

CIF number is primarily used for administrative and banking procedures. Here's a closer look at its uses — 

  • Activating Online Banking: This number is usually required to configure or activate online banking services. By doing this, you can be confident that your online profile and financial information are correctly connected.For instance, if you open an account with Al Hilal, you may need your Al Hilal Bank CIF number. In case of a Mashreq account, you may need a corresponding Mashreq CIF number.
  • Branch Switching: This number may also be used if you choose to change branches. It makes the transfer easier by enabling the new branch to easily access and extract your account data.
  • Account Management: Banks can track your financial history and assist you better in managing your account. 
  • Credit Applications: When applying for loans or credit cards, this number is often required to streamline the verification process and access your financial records.

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Why is the CIF Number Important?

Here’s how this number is beneficial for banks and yourself — 

  • Convenient Banking: All the information regarding your profile as a customer is consolidated under just one number. This can make it pretty convenient to access your details in case of regular banking or any issues. 
  • Security: Banks usually have security measures associated with the CIF number. This provides yet another layer of security, making it more challenging for unauthorised individuals to access your financial data.
  • Easy Tracking: As a customer, you can easily track various accounts, loans, and banking products without the hassle of managing their financial affairs

FAQs 

Is it safe to share my CIF number?

Generally, you should not share your CIF number with anyone, unless it’s a trusted bank official.

How to find CIF number in Emirates Islamic Bank?

The easiest way to find your Emirates Islamic CIF number is to look at your electronic or printed bank account statements.

Can I change my CIF number?

Typically, this number remains unchanged. However, in exceptional cases — such as when customer profiles are merged — a bank may assign a new number

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