This makes ADIB the first Islamic bank ever to launch such a service for the automobile sector.

Online banking, digital bill payments and e-wallets have emerged as essential services in the months when Emiratis weren't able to step out due to the pandemic, and had to rely on e-commerce platforms as well as other virtual marketplaces for day-to-day activities. Following the tremendous success of e-payments during the past decade or so, fintech apps have started innovating to expand their suite of offerings, to include investment opportunities as well as specialised services for different sectors.

The Middle East has been making the most of this tech transition, prompting banks to go fully online, which even led to the creation of the world's first completely digital Islamic financial institution in the UAE. Being based in the regional hub for innovation, the Islamic bank in Abu Dhabi has become the first of its kind, to launch an online ecosystem designed specifically for people who want assistance on various levels while buying or selling a car.

Created in collaboration with a fintech firm Drive Ninja, the platform is equipped to handle everything including sales, purchases, price comparison, auto finance and even registration of the vehicle. Users can even enter the digital realm to book test rides, check out insurance plans and shop for accessories while buying cars, through a few taps on the smartphone screen.

About 750 vehicles from major car dealers in the UAE are listed on ADIB's portal, which also addresses all issues that an automobile buyer or seller may face. It'll also be partnering with service providers and government entities, to ensure maintenance, on-road assistance, fuel deliveries and traffic payments for consumers in the Emirates.

Recently, there has been a surge in apps allowing people to lease cars with subscriptions for a month or more, along with platforms that are helping motorists shop for electric vehicles. Dubai's power and water authority DEWA has also launched an app which makes it easier for new e-car owners to locate chargers and keep vehicles powered up in the city.