How to Activate Alinma ATM Card: Complete Guide for 2025
Alinma Bank requires physical activation of ATM cards before they can be used. This ensures account security and card functionality. You can activate your Alinma ATM card using a self-service kiosk, but not fully online or by SMS alone.
What Is the Alinma ATM Card Activation Process?
Alinma ATM card activation links your card to your banking credentials and mobile number.
- Card Printing: First, your card must be printed via a self-service kiosk or received via courier.
- Mobile Number: Ensure your mobile number is registered and active.
- Account Status: Your account must be active and KYC-compliant.
- ATM Visit: You must visit an Alinma ATM to complete activation.
This activation enables all card features, including withdrawals, online payments, and ATM use.
How to Activate Alinma ATM Card via Self-Service Kiosk?
Self-service kiosk activation is the fastest and most used method.
Steps:
- Go to any Alinma deposit ATM or self-service kiosk.
- Insert your new ATM card.
- Choose your language (English or Arabic).
- Select “PIN Creation” from the on-screen menu.
- Enter a 4-digit PIN of your choice.
- Re-enter the same PIN to confirm.
- Wait for a 4-digit SMS code on your registered number.
- Enter the code on the ATM screen.
- Press “Accept” to confirm.
- A message will confirm successful activation.
Once activated, you can use your card immediately for transactions and ATM withdrawals.
Can You Activate Alinma ATM Card Online Without Going to an ATM?
No, Alinma Bank does not allow full ATM card activation online. An ATM or self-service kiosk visit is mandatory.
Why?
- For identity verification
- For secure PIN generation
- To prevent unauthorized use
However, some pre-activation steps can be done via the Alinma Mobile App:
| Action | Can it be done online? |
|---|---|
| Check card status | ✅ Yes |
| Block/unblock card | ✅ Yes |
| Create new PIN | ❌ No |
| Full activation | ❌ No |
You can check if the card has been printed, shipped, or is ready for ATM activation through the app.
How to Activate Alinma ATM Card via SMS?
Is SMS activation possible?
No. You cannot activate the card via SMS alone.
What is the SMS used for?
Alinma uses SMS only for:
- Sending the OTP (One-Time Password)
- PIN creation confirmation
You receive an OTP during the ATM activation process. Entering this OTP at the machine completes the process securely.
How to Create or Set the Alinma ATM Card PIN?
Setting the PIN is part of activation and requires ATM access.
Steps:
- Insert the ATM card.
- Choose your language.
- Select PIN Setup.
- Enter a 4-digit PIN.
- Re-enter the same PIN.
- Enter the OTP received by SMS.
- Press “Accept”.
- The system will display “PIN set successfully”.
Important:
- The PIN must be 4 digits, numeric only.
- You can change it anytime at Alinma ATMs.
What If I Received My Alinma ATM Card by Courier?
Courier delivery cards still require activation through an ATM.
What to check before visiting the ATM:
- Your name must match your registered ID.
- Mobile number must be linked to your bank account.
- Card must not be expired or blocked.
Then, follow the same activation steps using any Alinma ATM.
Which ATMs Can Be Used to Activate an Alinma ATM Card?
You must use an official Alinma Bank ATM or self-service kiosk.
| ATM Type | Activation Possible? |
|---|---|
| Alinma Deposit ATM | ✅ Yes |
| Alinma Withdrawal ATM | ✅ Yes |
| Self-service kiosk | ✅ Yes |
| Other Saudi bank ATMs | ❌ No |
| International ATMs | ❌ No |
These machines are found at:
- Bank branches
- Malls
- Airports
- Government buildings
Use the Alinma Branch Locator to find the nearest supported machine.
Troubleshooting: Why Is My Alinma ATM Card Not Activating?
Activation may fail due to various reasons.
Common Issues and Fixes:
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No SMS received | Wrong mobile number | Update via bank branch |
| Card not accepted | Card not printed correctly | Reprint via kiosk |
| PIN not accepted | PIN mismatch | Restart process |
| OTP invalid | Expired code | Retry within time limit |
| Machine error | Technical fault | Try another ATM or kiosk |
Always ensure:
- You are using the latest mobile number
- Your card has been printed and collected
- The ATM supports full activation
How Long Does Activation Take After Using the ATM?
Card activation is instant.
- Once you enter the correct OTP and PIN, the screen will show:
“Transaction successfully completed. Your card is now active.” - In some cases, an SMS confirmation will follow within 60 seconds.
There is no waiting period. The card is ready to use for:
- Cash withdrawals
- Online purchases
- Point-of-sale payments
What Can I Do After the ATM Card Is Activated?
Once activated, your card supports all financial services.
Available Functions:
- Withdraw cash from ATMs
- Deposit cash (at deposit ATMs)
- Pay at POS terminals
- Shop online using the 16-digit card number and CVV
- Link card to Apple Pay or Mada Pay
Always ensure your account has sufficient balance before using these services.
Security Tips After Activating Your Alinma ATM Card
Protecting your card post-activation is essential.
Best Practices:
- Do not share your PIN or OTP with anyone
- Change your PIN regularly using the ATM
- Enable Alinma Mobile App notifications
- Immediately block the card if lost
- Use two-factor authentication for online purchases
If you notice unauthorized transactions, contact Alinma’s 24/7 hotline: 800-120-8000.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I activate my Alinma card without going to an ATM?
No. A physical ATM or kiosk is required.
Can I reuse my PIN for a new card?
No. Each card needs a new PIN during activation.
Can I activate multiple cards for the same account?
Yes, each card must be activated separately.
What is the SMS code used for?
It is used to verify your mobile identity during ATM PIN setup.