As digital payments surge in popularity across the UAE, so do the risks.
From online fraud to card skimming and unauthorized charges, managing secure business payments has never been more important. Whether you're paying suppliers, managing subscriptions, or handing cards to your team, you need a solution that protects your business from every angle.
So, when it comes to card-based spending ; is a virtual company card in the UAE more secure than a physical one?
Let’s break it down.
The rising threat of payment fraud in the UAE
The UAE is leading the region in digital transformation, with businesses rapidly shifting to online payments and e-commerce platforms.
But with that growth comes an increase in fraud risks:
- Card skimming at physical terminals
- Stolen card numbers from phishing attacks
- Subscription services billing forgotten cards
- Lost or shared corporate cards used without control
To reduce exposure, companies need more secure ways to pay ; especially for remote teams, digital marketing, and SaaS subscriptions.
That’s where virtual cards come in.
What is the difference between virtual and physical cards?
Let’s start with the basics.
- Physical cards are plastic cards you keep in your wallet. They come with a 16-digit number, expiry date, and CVV printed on them. You use them in stores, at ATMs, and for in-person expenses.
- Virtual cards are digital-only. They have a 16-digit number and CVV like a normal card, but exist purely in your app or dashboard. You can issue them instantly and use them for online payments or subscriptions.
Both types of cards draw from the same business account. But when it comes to online payment security in Dubai, virtual cards offer a clear advantage.
Why virtual cards are superior for online security
Single-use and vendor-specific cards
With Pemo, you can issue a virtual card just for one vendor ; like:
- Amazon
- Google Ads
- Your design freelancer
- A software subscription
If that vendor gets hacked or if the card is stolen, your main account and other vendor cards stay safe.
You can also issue single-use cards that expire after one transaction, making them ideal for one-off purchases or high-risk suppliers.
✅ Learn how virtual cards improve marketing ROI
Instant freezing and deletion
Lost a card? Suspect fraud? No need to call your bank or wait for a new card in the mail.
With virtual cards, you can:
- Freeze or delete the card instantly in your dashboard
- Issue a new card on the spot
- Avoid interrupting the rest of your team’s spending
This kind of real-time control is a game-changer for fraud prevention and fast-moving businesses.
Hidden details
Because virtual cards only live in your platform or app, their details can’t be skimmed at a terminal or seen by someone looking over your shoulder.
There’s no plastic to lose, and no printed CVV for someone to copy.
Many virtual cards also come with 3DS security (3D Secure), requiring extra authentication during checkout for even more protection.
When should you stick to physical cards?
Let’s be honest ; virtual cards don’t cover every situation.
Here’s when physical cards still make sense:
- Travel expenses like flights, hotel check-ins, and taxis
- Client entertainment, such as business lunches or events
- In-person supplier payments, especially where terminals don’t support online cards
- ATM withdrawals, if needed for urgent cash situations
If your team works on the go or attends client meetings, having a physical card is still useful.
✅ Explore our virtual and physical company cards in UAE
The hybrid approach: using both for maximum security
The best setup? Use both.
- Virtual cards for online platforms, recurring SaaS tools, marketing spend, and vendor payments
- Physical cards for field teams, travel, or situations where an in-hand card is still expected
With Pemo, you can manage both types of cards from one dashboard:
- Set employee spending limits
- Restrict cards to specific merchant categories
- Get real-time visibility over every transaction
- Freeze or delete cards with one click
That way, you're not choosing between security and flexibility ; you're getting both.
✅ Explore our virtual and physical company cards in UAE
Secure your spend with Pemo
Security isn’t just about protecting your funds. It’s about giving your finance team confidence, saving time on fraud disputes, and staying in control of your spending ; whether you're in the office or online.
With Pemo’s smart card platform, you get:
- Instantly issued virtual cards
- Physical cards for in-person needs
- Single-use or vendor-specific cards
- Instant freezing and real-time alerts
- Full visibility across your team’s expenses
So you can focus on growing your business, not chasing receipts or canceling lost cards.
👉 Book a demo and see how secure business payments should feel.
