Barclay Plc had begun closing the accounts of some of its clients in the United Arab Emirates. The move comes after the British financial institution announced that it would be selling off its local retail unit.

From a review by Arabian Business, around 500 accounts have now been frozen. Customers with business and personal banking accounts said they were informed by the bank by telephone last Tuesday. The call made informed the customers that their accounts were being put on hold.

According to one British expatriate, who preferred to remain anonymous, "I was asked by the bank to come into the Emaar Square headquarters this mornings. They told me my account was being closed, but refused to give me a reason why. When I asked my relationship manager how many other accounts would be affected, he said hundreds, if not thousands - both personal and business. I felt like I was being treated like a criminal."

The British expatriate added, "Barclays claimed they have sent a letter, but I never received it. Now they are refusing to give me my money - they said they sent me a manager's cheque for the outstanding balance, which I have not received. It's really damaging to my company - without having a bank account I can't operate until I get my money back and this is sorted out."

Even after several calls and emails, Arabian Business was unable to reach a Barclays spokesperson for comment.