How to Block & Unblock American Express Credit Cards In UAE

When and Why to Block American Express Credit Cards in UAE?

Blocking an American Express card is a critical security action. It comes into action when card control is compromised or fraud risk is detected. With timely steps, you can prevent unauthorised transactions and minimise your losses. Here’s when you should block the card —

1. Card Loss or Theft: Immediate blocking prevents misuse of a lost or stolen card. It also helps you speed up the replacement process.
2. Compromised Card Details: Blocking is essential if you suspect that your card number, CVV, or account credentials are exposed. 
3. Suspicious Transactions: Unrecognised or unusual activity requires immediate blocking to minimise potential losses.

How to Block American Express Credit Cards in UAE?

As mentioned earlier, it’s quite easy to block American Express credit cards. Amex Express UAE provides multiple secure methods to complete the process and ensure card safety. 

Via Mobile App

1. Access the American Express App using secure credentials
2. Move to the ‘Account Management’ section under the ‘Accounts’ tab
3. Select ‘Temp Block Your Card’ 
4. This will temporarily block your card 

Through Online Banking

1. Log into the official American Express UAE online portal 
2. Open the ‘Cards/Account Management’ section for the account
3. Choose ‘Block Card’ or ‘Temp Block Your Card’ to restrict new spending

Through Customer Support

1. Dial the UAE helpline — use the number on the back of the card or the official contact numbers —
   1. (+971) 4 4492222 for Dubai
   2. (+971) 2 5996299 for Abu Dhabi 
2. Request immediate card blocking after identity verification
3. Support may confirm the block or guide you on further steps

At a Branch

1. Visit a local Amex UAE branch with a valid ID
2. Submit a block request with proof of identity
3. Amex staff block the card and initiate a replacement process

How to Block American Express Credit Cards While Travelling Abroad?

American Express offers international card control options to ensure uninterrupted security — even outside the UAE. Blocking a card while travelling helps prevent unauthorised transactions and enables immediate fraud response, even when you are overseas.

1. Use Mobile App or Online Banking: Securely log into the official American Express mobile app or online banking platform. Wherever you are, you can block the card instantly from any country.
2. International Helpline: Contact the global American Express helpline listed on the official website or on the back of the card to report a lost or blocked card while abroad.

Temporary vs Permanent Amex Credit Card Blocks in UAE

Choosing the right type of card block depends on whether the issue is short-term or involves a confirmed security risk. American Express has both temporary and permanent blocking options to give you control over transactions and account protection.

1. Temporary Block (Freeze): This option is suitable when a card is misplaced but not confirmed lost. It blocks the card for up to 7 days. Note that some recurring subscriptions and digital wallet payments may continue to process.
2. Automatic Unblock: If no further action is taken, a temporarily blocked card is automatically reactivated after 7 days.
3. Permanent Block: This is a useful option if your card is lost, stolen, or compromised. In this case, Amex cancels the existing card and issues a replacement card.
4. Security Impact: Permanent blocking is the only method that stops all unauthorised transactions, including recurring and stored merchant payments.

How to Unblock American Express Credit Cards in UAE?

When you unblock American Express credit cards, you restore their transaction capability after security concerns are resolved. Just like for blocking, you can find multiple official channels to unblock the card quickly. 

1. Amex MENA App: Open the Services section in the app. Next, switch the ‘Temp Block’ toggle to OFF after successful authentication.
2. Online Banking: Log into the official American Express UAE online account. Under account or card management, select the option to unblock Amex credit card.
3. Customer Support: Contact the 24/7 customer service helpline to find more details.

Important: If you don’t take any manual action after a temporary block, your card gets automatically unblocked after 7 days.

How to Keep Your American Express Credit Card Secure in the UAE?

While you can always block or unblock cards, it’s also important to know the safety tips. By adopting a few official security practices, you can effectively minimise the chances of unauthorised transactions. 

• Report Suspicious Activity Immediately: Always report any unrecognised or incorrect transactions to American Express UAE at the earliest. Early reporting helps with the investigation.
• Regular Account Monitoring: Check your transactions frequently through the Amex MENA App or online banking. Monitoring helps you quickly find out unusual spends.
• Secure Account Credentials: Use a strong password with 8–16 characters and enable biometric authentication like Face ID or fingerprint. Avoid easily guessable personal information.
• Avoid Sharing Card Details: Never share your card number, CVV, or PIN with anyone, even over the phone or email. Keep your card information private at all times.
• Enable Transaction Alerts: Turn on instant purchase notifications on your phone or email. This ensures you’re immediately aware of any unauthorised or suspicious activity.

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