Ethiopian expatriates in UAE enjoy hassle-free remittance channel with Botim

Botim’s tie-up with the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia promises faster, safer, and more affordable money transfers for the diaspora, supporting both families and Ethiopia’s growing economy.

Dr Tariq Bin Hendi, Board Member at Astra Tech and CEO of Botim, says the partnership with the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia will deliver secure and seamless remittance solutions for the Ethiopian diaspora in the UAE.

By Nhlanhla Muthe

Botim, Astra Tech’s fintech-first platform in the Middle East and North Africa, has teamed up with the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) to open a new channel for the diaspora to send money back home.

Dr Tariq Bin Hendi, Board Member at Astra Tech and Chief Executive of Botim, revealed that the new payment avenue allows thousands of Ethiopian workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to directly deposit money into their bank accounts back home, mobile wallets, or for cash pick-up at over 1900 CBE branches.

“Remittances are a lifeline for many expat communities in the UAE, and our partnership with the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia reflects our commitment to delivering secure, seamless cross-border financial solutions. With over 8.5 million users in the UAE, we remain focused on connecting people in meaningful ways through communications and fintech innovation,” said Hendi.

The service is particularly important for Ethiopian expatriates, many of whom have long struggled with costly and informal transfer channels. By leveraging Botim, a platform already embedded in their daily communication, migrant workers can now send funds home safely and legally, while their families receive money instantly.

Abi Sano Mehammed, President of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, stressed the cultural and economic importance of the partnership. “By partnering with a platform deeply embedded in the daily lives of the UAE’s community, we are not only making financial services more accessible but also reinforcing the connection between Ethiopia and the UAE. This collaboration makes a meaningful impact in the lives of our citizens abroad,” he stated

Ethiopia received US$5.1 billion in remittances during the first nine months of the 2024/25 fiscal year, and initiatives like this are expected to boost those inflows further. “With Botim and CBE now working hand in hand, the UAE-Ethiopia financial corridor is set for transformation, one remittance at a time,” added Hendi.

He further underlined that for thousands of Ethiopian workers in the UAE, sending money home is more than just a financial transaction but a lifeline that sustains families, pays for education, and drives development back home. With an estimated 350 000 Ethiopians living and working in the UAE, the need for fast, secure, and affordable remittance services has never been greater.