In the UAE, parents are shifting from coins and cash to tap-and-pay methods, using e-money platforms for their children’s allowances. They find this digital approach safer, more convenient, and an effective way to teach kids about money management in the digital era, offering security and peace of mind.
With the rise of online payment options for both in-store and online purchases, digital payments are always accessible. Although cash is still an option, delivery situations often lack adequate change, causing frustration.
Khalifa Yousif, a student in Dubai, shared with Khaleej Times that he used to get his allowance in cash, saving half for personal purchases and using the rest for food orders or friendly challenges where the loser buys food for the winner.
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Seeing his friends using bank cards, Khalifa wanted one too. “Most delivery apps offer online payment, so I had to ask my father to pay and then reimburse him in cash. Sometimes, the delivery driver didn’t have the exact change, and I needed every dirham, which became annoying.”
“Now, with a card, I can pay easily without worrying about small change. If I lose a challenge, I can pay and send the order directly to my friend’s house,” Khalifa mentioned.
The transaction history from these apps allows parents to monitor their children’s spending conveniently via mobile.
Convenient Ordering
Emirati mother Alia Abdallah emphasized that electronic allowances require understanding from both parents and children. “Monitoring is essential, and tracking digital spending is simpler than cash.”
She created an account and linked a card for her son to her bank, setting the transfer amount easily. “I didn’t realize it would be so straightforward.”
Alia can view all her son’s transactions, including amounts and locations. She can also freeze the account if needed.
“Online ordering is simpler for them, especially when I’m out. They can order and pay online without worrying about change.”
Cash, once convenient, now poses challenges for children in getting change and risks scamming.
Alia stressed teaching children spending control as “the tap’s sound is satisfying, and the ease of spending is tempting.”
Payment Tracking
Dubai resident Arfaz Iqbal has been using Botim for his children for over six months.
“It’s incredibly useful. I set budgets for the kids, telling them, ‘You have Dh100 or Dh200, and must stay within budget.’ This helps them learn their financial limits.”
He appreciates tracking their purchases, receiving updates for each transaction, allowing oversight without restrictions. “It’s better than cash, which can be lost. This stays on their phone, always with them.”
